Studies in the
Scriptures
What are the Gifts of the Spirit?
Spiritual gifts exist for good reasons
Nab B. September 3, 2022
“And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal [all]." (1 Corinthians 12:6-7)
Have you ever wondered what these 'gifts of the Spirit' are? Why are they given? Those who have them are a blessing to other members for building up the 'body of Christ'.
The scriptures below show that these spiritual gifts exist for good reasons. I briefly list what each gift entails. These gifts testify of Christ's work "who gave gifts unto men" (Eph 4:8) among the body of believers.
Spiritual Gifts in the Scriptures
“And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." (1 Corinthians 12:6-7)
"Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.” (1 Corinthians 14:1)
“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:6-8)
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” (Eph 4:11-13)
A Brief List of The Gifts of the Spirit
Prophesying:
Prophesying is “speaking forth”. Thayer’s Lexicon refers to this way:
A “discourse declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden.”
So, a Christian who prophesies is someone who declares the will of God and communicates it.
Ministering:
(Gk, diakonian, service). The word ‘deacon’ means a servant. This isn't a title. It describes one who is compassionate in helping others in need. A gifted ‘servant’ can spot those in trouble and take the initiative to comfort and convince others.
Teaching:
A gift in understanding the word, proclaiming it, and explaining it in context, clearly and convincingly.
Exhortation:
It is a gift in exhorting others to serve God and Christ. It involves building up, strengthening the weak, and comforting the depressed, sick or persecuted.
Preachers:
A gift for those who lead others to Christ with boldness.
Apostles:
Planting churches and missions.
Shepherds:
Looking after the spiritual welfare of others.
Giving:
A gift in giving willingly and cheerfully. They share their belongings (money, time, attention). They are concerned and attentive to the needs of others.
Hospitality:
A gift in welcoming and appreciating others.
Leadership:
A gift in ‘guiding’ others lovingly and setting a good example in tireless caring for the body.
Wisdom:
A gift in understanding and speaking scriptural truth skillfully. It’s not used to impress but to help those in need how to apply God’s wisdom in diverse situations.
Knowledge:
A gift in understanding scriptural truth which comes by revelation by the spirit. These have insight into God’s ways.
Faith:
This gift is given to all. It’s one of the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). When offered as a ‘gift’, the person can exhibit an unshakable trust in God and Christ. His faith has a strengthening effect on others.
Healing:
Most healing is performed to bring glory to God and help spread the gospel. It’s not for personal gain. Jesus refused to perform a miracle when he was very hungry.
Miraculous Powers:
This rare gift is solely exercised for the glory of God and the spread of the gospel. But false teachers and leaders can exploit false signs and wonders to deceive others in churches.
Distinguishing of Spirits:
A gift in detecting deception and errors in doctrines and false teachers. This gift is necessary to protect other members.
Speaking in Tongues:
The need for tongues was significant in the early days of the church. It gave a believer the ability to speak unknown languages to preach the word demonstrating the power of God.
Interpretation of Tongues:
This was a gift in interpreting a tongue (unknown language). An interpreter was able to translate the messages of another member for all to benefit.