SECTION 3:
Spiritual Gifts:
Spiritual Gifts: Introduction:
Proverbs 18:16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
1 Cor 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 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. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
1) Though the gifts may be evident, and the desire is strong for ministry, there must be a time of maturing!
Luke 5:36-39 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.
2) Jesus was ready to start his ministry when he was 12 years old!
Luke 2:48-52 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Define: Gift = Charisma:
Extraordinary gifts of the Spirit bestowed upon Christians to equip them for service in the Church.
3) Profits the Church:
1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
These gifts do not imply office but function! Many Christians operate in these gifts of the Spirit but not all are called to an office within the church.
Spiritual Gifts vs. Natural Talent:
a) Natural abilities should not be treated as spiritual abilities
b) Some natural talents are later empowered and enhanced to produce supernatural results.
c) The Holy Spirit gives gifts to make up for lack of natural ability.
d) Natural talent is present with or without the anointing; in obedience and disobedience.
e) For those who are gifted in areas where they have no natural talent, fear of failure can paralyze their gift.
f) As we are obedient, God will confirm the gift with power and supernatural results and our confidence will grow to full maturity.
4) Testing the authenticity of Spiritual Gifts:
a) For everything real there is a counterfeit.
b) Counterfeit gifts are produced by the flesh or demonic influence.
c) Sometimes, we do make mistakes: this is the place to do it!!!
c) Character of Individual.
e) Content (Does it line up with the Word).
f) Fruit of the Spirit.
g) Results!!!
5) Time/Place:
People are not “gift-possessed”. The gift is in our hands and we should be able to discern time and place.
Example of an Honest Mistake
2 Sam 7:1-17 Now it came to pass when the king was dwelling in his house, and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies all around, that the king said to Nathan the prophet, "See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains." Then Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that is in your heart, for the LORD is with you. “But it happened that night that the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying, "Go and tell My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD: "Would you build a house for Me to dwell in? "For I have not dwelt in a house since the time that I brought the children of Israel up from Egypt, even to this day, but have moved about in a tent and in a tabernacle. "Wherever I have moved about with all the children of Israel, have I ever spoken a word to anyone from the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd My people Israel, saying, “Why have you not built Me a house of cedar?” "Now therefore, thus shall you say to My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD of hosts:” "I took you from the sheepfold, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel. And I have been with you wherever you have gone, and have cut off all your enemies from before you, and have made you a great name, like the name of the great men who are on the earth. "Moreover I will appoint a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own and move no more; nor shall the sons of wickedness oppress them anymore, as previously, "since the time that I commanded judges to be over My people Israel, and have caused you to rest from all your enemies. Also the LORD tells you that He will make you a house. "When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. "He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. "I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. "But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you.” "And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you.” “Your throne shall be established forever.” “According to all these words and according to all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David.”
6) Example of Demonic Influence:
Acts 16:16-18 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
We need to seek the Lord in prayer and not be caught up with a critical spirit!
7) Specific Spiritual Gifts:
a) The presence of a gift does not necessarily imply a genuine relationship with Christ.
b) You know by their fruits; not by anything else!!!
Matt. 7:20-23 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Gal. 5:22-26 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
8) The Word of Wisdom:
Define: A special illumination that enables one in a specific instance to grasp divine insight regarding a fact, situation, or context.
Open to: 1 Kings 3:16-28 (Solomon)
Common Character Traits/ Desires:
a) The ability to direct others into a proper course of action.
b) People come to me for advice when they are uncertain regarding direction.
c) God gives me supernatural insight to dispel confusion.
d) My advice to others had led them to successful Christian living.
e) People with spiritual problems seem to come to me counsel and advice.
f) People generally follow my advice.
g) I have confidence in my ability to provide spiritual counsel.
Testing a Word of Wisdom:
James 3:13-17 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
Just because it sounds good; doesn’t make it wisdom!
9) The Word of Knowledge:
Define: The ability to remember scripture or have it supernaturally quickened or to know a fact or truth about a person or situation revealed directly by the Holy Spirit.
Possible indicators of:
a) The Holy Spirit has revealed to me a truth about a person that they have concealed. (Nathan and David)
b) In witnessing, I have been surprised by what I’ve said to another that disclosed something I could not have known on my own.
c) The Holy Spirit has made me aware of a deep need in an individual that they have not shared with me.
d) God often quickens scriptures to that are useful for the moment.
e) Difficult truths seem easy to learn.
f) I have a clear understanding of Biblical doctrines.
g) It is an exciting challenge to read and study difficult portions of the Bible.
Testing a Word of Knowledge:
Job 36:3-4 I will fetch my knowledge from afar, and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker. For truly my words shall not be false: he that is perfect in knowledge is with thee.
Prov. 11:9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
Rom. 10:1-3 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
It is possible to have a zeal for God and not be right with him!
10) Faith:
Define: A gift of extraordinary confidence in God that is unshakeable by situations, pain, apparent failure, or ridicule. This gift strengthens others to endure persecution and wait upon the Lord.
Common Character Traits/ Desires:
a) My hope in God, against all odds is inspiring to others.
b) I seem to be less shakeable than others.
c) I am totally convinced that God will perform his Word even when I haven’t seen the manifestation.
d) I am ready for the impossible because I have great trust in God.
e) I am always ready to believe even when others think it’s impossible.
f) People seem to view me as one thinks nothing is impossible.
g) I am able to give a positive vision to those who are discouraged.
Testing Faith:
Gal. 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
James 2:14-26 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
11) Healing:
Define: The gift that enables one to function as an instrument of God’s healing grace in the lives of hurting people. The gifts of healing include miraculous healing of the body, the mind, the emotions, and relationships.
Common Character Traits/ Desires:
a) Take every opportunity to participate in praying for the sick.
b) Healing has occurred through your prayers.
c) A burden for the sick; physically and emotionally.
d) I feel prompted to pray for the sick.
e) I get irritated when the physical or mental pain of others is ignored.
f) I feel a strong sense that God wants to heal someone.
g) I have a desire to study and learn about healing.
Testing Healing:
Acts 10:38-39 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
Acts 4:8-10 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
12) Working of Miracles
Define: The gift of showing a supernatural sign, mark, or token that is out of the ordinary course of events.
Judging a Miracle:
Deut. 13:1-3 If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.
Matt. 24:23-26 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false Christ’s, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Behold, I have told you before. Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.
II Thes. 2:7-10 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
Christ did not work miracles needlessly.
13) Discerning of Spirits:
Define: The ability to know whether someone or something is inspired by God, flesh, or Satan and to protect the body of Christ from misleading influences.
Common Character Traits/ Desires:
a) The ability to detect spiritual truth and spiritual error.
b) The ability to accurately determine whether a person’s motives are honest or dishonest. (Time or circumstance proved you right)
Judging discernment:
Heb. 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
James 2:1-4 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
1 Cor. 11:28-31 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
14) Tongues:
Define: The ability to praise God or offer prayer to God in a spiritual language. It is directed to God and not to people.
15) Interpretation of Tongues:
Define: The ability to interpret tongues and declare the meaning or intent to edify the body.
16) Other Mentioned Gifts in the Bible: (Romans 12:4-8)
1 Cor. 12:27-30 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
Rom. 12:6-8 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.
a) Ministering/Serving/Helps
b) Exhortation
c) Giving
d) Administration
e) Mercy
17) The 5 Fold Ministry:
Eph. 4:11-13 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:
3 Purposes for the 5 fold ministry:
a) The perfecting of the saints.
b) The work of the ministry.
c) The edifying of the body of Christ.
These ministries are given by God! We do not take this honor upon ourselves but the gifts manifest themselves along with the fruit of the Spirit and then the office is recognized by those with spiritual discernment and eventually officially recognized by spiritual authority within the Church.
Heb 5:4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
18) Apostle:
Define: The special ability to communicate the gospel across cultural barriers and plant or assist in planting churches where there is no knowledge of the gospel.
Possible Indicators of apostolic gift:
a) Desire to travel to foreign countries or to places where the Gospel isn’t known.
b) Desire to learn foreign languages, cultures, and religions to communicate the Gospel effectively.
c) The ability to stand alone for Christ without support in a hostile, unbelieving environment.
d) The ability to train others for effective service.
e) People seem to follow you without much resistance.
The Office of Apostle:
It is usually accompanied by a distinct calling and a miraculous lifestyle.
2 Cor. 12:12 Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.
A time of Separation:
Rom 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
Fruit:
1 Cor. 9:1-2 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord? If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
Humility:
1 Cor 15:9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
Faith:
Titus 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;
Acknowledging of the Truth:
Titus 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;
19) Prophet:
Define: The ability to speak what God wants said with clarity, creativity, and power. It is also called the gift of preaching. The primary ministry in this gift is not prediction, but in confronting people with the truth about God and man with conviction and repentance as a result.
Possible Indicators of prophetic gift:
a) The desire to confront issues with God’s Word to bring change.
b) The ability to speak God’s Word even when it will not be received.
c) Ridicule or rejection from family, friends, or society for speaking the Truth does not effect you.
d) The ability to confront creatively.
e) The ability to comfort others with the Word of God.
f) The ability to relate God’s Word to issues of today.
g) Spiritual Dreams and Visions.
Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.
The Office of Prophet:
Results:
Deut 18:22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.
Reputation:
1 Sam 3:19-20 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground. And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD.
Acknowledges the Truth:
1 Cor. 14:37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
Self Control:
1 Cor 14:32-33 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
Prophesies no “new thing”
Acts 26:22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:
Refrains from “confidential prophesy”
1 Cor. 14:29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
Practices what he preaches:
Luke 24:19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:
20) Evangelist:
Define: The special ability to lead unbelievers to a saving knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Possible indicators of an evangelistic gift:
a) I seem to have insight on when others are prepared to receive Jesus.
b) I find it easy to ask people to commit to Christ.
c) I tend to conclude my witness with an appeal for salvation.
d) I enjoy ministering to unbelievers more than Christians.
e) I am troubled when salvation is not emphasized.
f) I dream of winning many souls to Christ.
g) I am willing to spend money, time, and whatever it takes to win the lost.
Office of Evangelist/Preacher:
They preach repentance for the remission of sins:
Matt. 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
They Preach the Gospel:
1 Cor 1:17-18 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
They Preach to the un-churched:
Rom. 15:20 Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:
They have been sent:
Rom. 10:13-15 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
They are Servants:
1 Cor. 9:16-19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
21) Pastor/Shepherd:
Define: The gift of a special passion and supernatural empowerment to lead people into green pastures, steer others away from danger, fight off predators, and bind up wounds.
Possible indicators of Pastoral gift:
a) Patience with Christians who progress slowly.
b) Protector of unity.
c) Effective discipling of others.
d) A sense of responsibility for other Christians.
e) Enjoy spiritual responsibility of leading others.
f) Enjoy assisting others with spiritual problems.
g) Enjoy close one on one relationships with others.
The Office of Pastor:
Sacrifice:
John 10:1 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Protects those he leads:
John 10:12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.
Maintains relationship with those he leads:
John 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Provides spiritual nourishment:
1 Pet. 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
An example to the flock:
1 Pet. 5:3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.
Compassion:
Mark 6:34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.
22) Teacher:
Define: The ability to understand and communicate the Christian faith so as to make the Truth clear to others. The result of this gift is the equipping and maturing of others in the body of Christ.
Possible indicators of a teaching gift:
a) Place great importance on accuracy and context of information.
b) Ability to recognize and discern false teaching or unsound advice.
c) Constant self examination and self reflection in order to gain insight to help others.
d) Excited about helping others discover important truths in the scriptures.
e) The prospect of teaching a Bible class is very exciting.
f) The ability to organize materials for training others.
g) (Laura’s observation) Can’t read the Word without it