Gifts and spiritual fruit

Theologoy of Governance

Good governance is participatory: participation by both women and men is a key cornerstone; anyone affected by or interested in a decision should have an opportunity to participate in the process either directly or through legitimate representation; and participation needs to be informed and organised.

Each of us has a unique and valuable contribution to make as we participate in being part of the ‘body’ of Christ. Nobody can say to another, that they are not needed or that their part and participation is ‘less than’ another. (1 Corinthians 12:18-21) All are valued and essential.

We are all different: ‘the body is not made up of one part but of many’ (1 Corinthians 12:14) and we have all been given certain gifts by the Spirit. (Romans 12:6). These gifts are given to us, not because we deserve it, but because of the grace of God. These spiritual, ‘grace gifts’ are to be used to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s multi-faceted grace (1 Peter 4:10), so that God’s church can be strengthened, and the world impacted by God’s rule of love. The Church is to continue the mission of Jesus and Spirit by healing wounds, mending divisions and restoring relationships. It is a mission that has the potential to transform the world, releasing men, women, children and the created world to flourish.

There is a strong emphasis in the letters of Paul that the Body of Christ functions effectively only when our various gifts are used appropriately. We are vitally joined to one another, with each contributing to the others. This does not mean that everyone has to be involved in every decision, but rather that everyone has something to contribute and should be encouraged to do so.

While the Bible indicates the vital importance of knowing and developing our spiritual gifts, it also urges believers to pursue love as ‘the most excellent way’. (1 Corinthians 12: 31) Love, known as ‘spiritual fruit’ (Galatians 5:22, 23), is essential for the body to be unified and for believers to work together in harmony. Without the spiritual fruit of love, our gifts amount to nothing. (1 Corinthians 13).

Galatians 3:26-29 declares there are no longer divisions based on race, social standing and gender – we are all equal, united and known as children of God through faith in Jesus. Therefore, in our practices, procedures and governance, we must no longer discriminate, but be open to receiving peoples’ participation through the contribution of their God-given grace gifts, marked by love.