Title: “Love Amplifies Spiritual Gifts” – Sermon by Jeff Piepho, part of the “1 Corinthians (Jesus Above All Things)” series (June 4, 2023)

This sermon by Jeff Piepho, part of the “1 Corinthians (Jesus Above All Things)” series, focuses on the relationship between spiritual gifts and love, based on 1 Corinthians 13. Piepho explains that while God bestows believers with spiritual gifts, or manifestations of the Holy Spirit, to benefit the church, these gifts should always be used with love.

Referencing 1 Thessalonians 1:3, Piepho encourages believers to serve tirelessly in God’s church out of love for God and people, just like the Thessalonians did. He uses a Pastry Chef Online quote to draw an analogy between the role of salt in enhancing food flavors and love in bringing out the best characteristics of spiritual gifts.

The sermon delves into the characteristics of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13, emphasizing the need to refrain from harboring resentment and to exercise kindness and truthfulness in loving others. It also outlines practical applications on recognizing when the Spirit is using one’s spiritual gifts and how to apply love to these gifts, including periodically assessing the motivation behind one’s actions.

In addition to individual spiritual growth, Piepho underlines the importance of collective growth within the church. He urges all members to apply their gifts and abilities, tempered with love, to serve the church in different capacities, suggesting that this collective effort can change the world.

Drawing from John 13:35, he concludes that the display of love for one another is a clear identifier of being Jesus’s disciples.