What Part of The Body of Christ are You?

Author: Shirley Giles Davis

The eyes? ears? hands? feet?  Or, maybe you are the heart, the liver, or the pancreas?

What does this anatomy quiz have to do with church?  Everything!

The Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12 that the church is the body of Christ, and we, individual believers, are members (or parts) of that body.  Each part is essential--just as our eyes and our pancreas are essential to our lives--to the church's healthy functioning.

Paul then goes on to say that we have each been given unique spiritual gifts to equip us to do those things that God calls us to do in, for, and through His church.  What gifts have you been given?  Does it feel like yours are less important?  Paul makes sure to remind us that each of us plays a crucial role.  How can your gifts be used to glorify God and build up the church?

So, are you the eyes—the person who notices everything, who sees people?  The ears—someone who listens intently, who hears…or the inner ear—do you bring balance to the Body?  Are you the hands—the one who helps, builds, crafts, touches?  The feet—the person who feels compelled to go, to do, to act?  Maybe you are the heart—the pulsing energy, the compassionate empathizer, or the liver—the one who helps the church filter truth from lies or good from bad…

Eugene Peterson’s, The Message, says understanding the Spirit’s work in our lives “is complex and often misunderstood, but I want you to be informed and knowledgeable.” Paul tells Timothy “do not neglect your gift” (1 Timothy 4:14). 

Understanding what gifts God has given you is part of the greater adventure of gaining clarity on God’s call, believing He equips you to do what He has designed you to do.  Valuing your gifts and the gifts of others equally is also God’s intent.

Take the free online spiritual gifts assessment: https://godgiftsyou.com/assessment/

Shirley Giles Davis, author of the God. Gifts. You. Your Unique Calling and Design workbook, is a consultant, coach, facilitator who has worked with faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, and law enforcement leadership for over 30 years.  She has worked with leaders and organizations in 47 of the United States as well as having clients outside the U.S.  Contact Shirley.