Life's first breath begins a journey filled with separations. Every crossroad we come to requires that something be left behind. This pathway reflects the invisible spiritual realm, where separations began on day one of creation. God's beneficial separations have continued throughout time and continue in our spiritual walk even today.
We are called to separate what is holy from what is common. When we answer the call, the difference between God-given natural or common gifts, and spiritual gifts becomes evident. They are as different as a sunrise and sunset. Both common talents and spiritual gifts are given by God for a good purpose, and each does its best work when used as God planned.
The work of the Great Commission turns into a major obstacle course as nations reject Christian influence and become post-Christian cultures. This mission is too great a task for the church to accomplish by common means. This study guide powerfully portrays the Spirit of Jesus, who manifests Himself in greater measure as Christians separate themselves from serving by human effort alone. This vital work of the kingdom of heaven was given to us on the day Jesus ascended into heaven, and is made possible by means of the anointing, gifting and empowering work of the Spirit.