I’m so thankful for this wonderful series of messages we’re having on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Through this, we’ve seen God move powerfully among us. I have personally been very encouraged to hear testimonies of many believing in God and experiencing miraculous healings. Indeed, we must give room to the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and ministries.
The gifts of the Holy Spirit operate best as a community. The Bible tells us that when we come together as one, there is a unique anointing of God’s presence that enables us to touch lives supernaturally. “How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” (1 Corinthians 14:26)
When the people of God congregate, all of our spiritual gifts are available for the edification of those in need. It could be a word of knowledge that calls someone to repentance or a manifestation of healing that touches a physical need. When we gather as a community, there is a fullness of God’s presence.
Every community requires leadership. Scripture tells us in James 5:14-15: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” In church, the pastoral leadership has the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to release God’s special work – both physical and spiritual healing. The Lord is also using this to remind us that we must operate as a community, not as individuals.
Ultimately, to sustain a godly community where the power of God can freely flow, we need love. Love triumphs over all. This is why Paul advises us in 1 Corinthians 14:1, “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts”. I pray that we will always be a community of love that exemplifies God’s power. And let us take His power to the streets and our marketplaces daily!
- Senior Pastor Lawrence Khong