The early church’s success was attributed to its collective efforts. The disciples rallied around Jesus’ singular dream of spreading the gospel. For the church to thrive, Paul preached that all gifts are essential. This means that there is no hierarchy in spiritual gifts within the Body. The term “Dream Teams” often refers to volunteer teams that leverage a variety of God-given gifts and passions to serve others and build up the church, fulfilling their purpose and making an eternal impact. 

 

Put It into Practice: To create Dream Teams, it is helpful for the church staff to know everyone’s gifts, passions, and serving style. Please use this form to update your Servant Volunteer Profile: bit.ly/ServantProfileForm

 

Day 1  Acts 5:42-6:7

Reflect: What does this text teach us about focusing on one’s calling in ministry? Why did the apostles choose to delegate food distribution? Why are the qualities required for serving important? 

Apply: What current needs in our church or community might require leadership to empower others to serve? Have you experienced serving where you should not have been? What happened?  

Pray: Lord, help me to embrace the gifts You have given me, whether they be gifts of leadership that empower others or gifts of service that meet the needs of Your people. Help us recognize that both are essential for the flourishing of Your kingdom.

 

Day 2 1 Corinthians 12:12-31

Reflect: If the Church is like a “Dream Team,” how does this passage help define what makes a great team? Describe the warning Paul gives in vs.21–26. Have you felt “less than” in the church?

Apply: If you were to build a “Dream Team” to serve our community or church, what spiritual gifts would you want represented and why? What could happen if all members had similar gifts? 

Pray: Father, help us to see the value of our gifts. May we uplift and strengthen those who feel unseen or unworthy, helping them to recognize their calling and to be a reflection of Your love.

 

Day 3 1 Corinthians 13:1-10

Reflect: What is the point Paul is making to them, and why does he feel the need to do so? Which of the qualities of love stands out to you, and why? How can a lack of love damage a ministry’s fruit?  

Apply: Recall when you experienced a good action (like serving or teaching) that lacked love. What was the result? How would it have been different if love were present? Is love your motivation?  

Pray: Read vs.4-7 aloud, replacing the word “love” with your name. Lord, search my heart and reveal my motivations. If I serve for recognition, approval, or personal gain, correct me. Love never fails.

 

Day 4 2 Timothy 1:3-7

Reflect: What do you think Paul meant in verse 6? How can we do the same with our spiritual gifts? Why do you think Paul needed to remind Timothy of his spiritual gift? What might cause someone to forget or neglect their gift today?

Apply: How can fear prevent us from using our spiritual gifts effectively? How do power, love, and self-discipline work together when we use our spiritual gifts in service? Which is more important?

Pray: Father, help me overcome fear and timidity with the confidence that comes from You. May Your Holy Spirit stir in me a deep passion to use my gifts effectively, to serve with courage and firm faith.

 

Day 5 1 Corinthians 3:5-9

Reflect: What does this reveal about the collaborative nature of spiritual gifts? What does this teach about personal accountability in using our gifts? Are rewards experienced now or in the future?

Apply: In what ways do we sometimes rely too much on gifted individuals instead of God’s power? What does it mean to you to be a “co-worker with God” in using your spiritual gifts? 

Pray: Lord, thank You for my unique gifts. Help me to understand how and where You want me to serve. May I not be driven by my own desires, but in unity with others, help me build up the body of Christ as a part of Your greater plan.