Sermons / August 16, 2026 // Gospel Identity

Theme: Gospel Identity Passage: 1 Corinthians 16:1–12 As Paul closed 1 Corinthians, he gave the church directives concerning their role in Gospel ministry. These directives characterize a Gospel-centered church. Characteristics of a Gospel-centered church: 1. Generous (1–4) a. We must intentionally give to the Lord’s work (1). b. Each person sets aside an amount as God has blessed (2). c. We are to be mindful of our spiritual siblings in need. 2. Relational (5–7) a. Fellowship requires time investment (6a).  b. Fellowship is purposeful (7). c. Fellowship leads to further ministry (6b). 3. Missional (8–9) a. God gives us opportunity to make Him known. b. We should anticipate opposition. 4. Edifying (10–11) a. We must battle against criticism and competition. b. We commission fellow believers for further ministry. 5. Submissive (12) a. Nothing wrong with being decisive (12a). b. Yet, we must defer to God’s will for another (12b). Main Idea: Our mission to make Jesus known requires collaboration not competition. Application Questions 1. How does Paul’s approach to the offering for the Lord’s people in vv. 1–4 challenge your financial responsibility concerning giving? 2. What could be done within your fellowship groups to foster intentionality, purpose, and greater ministry opportunity? 3. Why is the reminder that we face opposition in our mission important for the church today? 4. What steps do you need to take to fight against the natural tendency to criticize and compete with our fellow believers? 5. How should Paul’s approach with Apollos inform ministry decision-making within churches today?