A local assembly of Christians is likened to a human body (1 Corinthians 12). Although a body has many different parts, all the parts function for the benefit of each other. Likewise, Christians in a church should use their gifts for the wholesome wellbeing of their brethren. Doing this is part of what Jesus commanded us when He said, “Love one another,” (John 13:34).
When we love the brethren by using our gifts for their spiritual and physical betterment, we are allowing the Christ who lives in us to work and flow through us. This is what Paul meant when he said, “For to me to live is Christ,” (Philippians 1:21). Our lives should progressively be a manifestation of the person of Jesus. Whatever we do to, and for our brethren should be likened to Jesus actually doing it for them. This also implies that when we fail to use our God-given gifts to minister to others, we are failing Jesus!
Not wanting to fail Jesus is good enough motivation to put our talents and abilities to work within a local church. But the other motivation for us not to just be receivers, but also givers in our churches is by knowing that we shall be rewarded in eternity for our service. For Jesus said, “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work,” (Revelation 22:12). Let us therefore choose not to be parasites. On the contrary, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God,” (1 Peter 4:10), for in so doing lies a reward.
God bless you.