4 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. 17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
Romans 12:3-18 (NKJV)
Discussion Questions:
- According to Romans 12:3–8, which spiritual gifts has God given you to serve inside the Church? In what ways does our modern culture make it difficult to view ourselves as genuinely interdependent members of an international Church? what is the ultimate purpose of the Church striving for true unity? (Romans 12:3-8)
- How does biblical “unity in diversity” differ from uniformity or total sameness? Why is diversity crucial for a healthy church? The sermon warns against the 80/20 rule, where 80% of the congregation watches while 20% does the work. What steps can we take to ensure our church body doesn’t become paralyzed by this imbalance? Jesus came to serve, not to be served. Following His example, how can we shift our daily mindset from asking “What can this church do for me?” to “What part am I called to supply?” (Romans 12:4-8, Eph 4:15-16)
Sermon Summary
“We are One” explores biblical unity and selfless service through the Apostle Paul’s teachings in Romans 12:3–18. The message highlights a moving story of Shanghai International Church (ICS) members who raised over 50,000 baht during a retreat to deliver essential goods to flood-stricken families in Thailand, beautifully demonstrating sacrificial, unconditional Agape love.
The pastor challenges the passive “consumer mentality” and the common 80/20 church imbalance, noting that a spectator culture directly contradicts the character of Jesus, who came to serve rather than be served. Because the church is a living body of diverse believers rather than a building, followers of Christ are urged to discover their spiritual gifts, reject worldly ego, and intentionally serve one another to build a healthy, unified community that reflects Christ.