Table Talk | September 13-14

Kyle Patrick   -   September 14, 2025

 

Key Takeaways:

  1. We are priests in God’s family, with both access and responsibility.
  2. We are members of a body, each with a unique role to play.
  3. Spiritual gifts are for the common good and building up the church.
  4. Our gifts vary in strength and expression, and need to be stewarded.
  5. Discerning our gifts involves God’s Word, God’s Spirit, and God’s people.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Pastor Jackson mentioned that we live in a consumeristic culture. How might this mindset affect our approach to church? How can we shift from a consumer mentality to one of contribution?

  2. Reflect on the analogy of a family meal vs. eating at a restaurant. How does this relate to our role in the church? Share an experience where you felt more like family than a consumer in church.

  3. The sermon emphasized that “you are a small part in a greater whole.” How does this perspective impact your view of your role in the church? Does it challenge or affirm your current involvement?

  4. Discuss the statement: “I’m dependent on you playing your part and you are dependent on me playing mine.” How does this interdependence manifest in our church community?

  5. Pastor Jackson talked about spiritual gifts being varied in strength and expression. Share an example of how you’ve seen the same gift expressed differently in people.

  6. How comfortable are you with asking the Holy Spirit directly about your spiritual gifts? What might be holding you back from this approach?

  7. Reflect on a time when someone in the church affirmed a gift or ability in you. How did this impact your understanding of your role in the body of Christ?

Practical Applications:

  1. Take time this week to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal or confirm your spiritual gifts.

  2. Read through the spiritual gift lists in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. Note any that resonate with you or that others have affirmed in you.

  3. Identify one way you can use a gift or ability to serve the church this week, focusing on the common good rather than personal recognition.

  4. If you’re not currently serving, commit to exploring at least one ministry opportunity in the church where you might be able to contribute.

  5. Write a note of encouragement to someone in the church, affirming a gift or ability you see in them.

  6. Reflect on your approach to church attendance. Create a pre-service routine that helps you shift from a consumer mindset to one of contribution and worship.

  7. Share with the group next week about any insights or experiences you had while applying these practices.