By Rich Peterson, Church Relations
Biblical Passages: 1 Corinthians 12; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Ephesians 4:11-12; Romans 12:6-8
Definition: A Spiritual gift is ANY ability that is GIVEN and EMPOWERED by the Holy Spirit and used in ANY ministry (service) of the church (Wayne Grudem).
10 Truths:
- Spiritual gifts are not for the elite – they are for everybody in the church
- Spiritual gifts are not ego-driven – they are God-given
- Spiritual gifts are not self-propelled – they are Holy Spirit empowered
- Spiritual gifts are not for selfish consumption – they are for mutual edification.
- Spiritual gifts are not limited to those listed as illustrations in the Bible – they are any ability given and empowered by the Holy Spirit and used in any ministry of the body of Christ.
- Spiritual gifts are not to be overstated or understated – they are to be understood and used to help others grow spiritually.
- Spiritual gifts are not to be used to label or pigeonhole people – they are to be used for the good of others and for the glory of God’s kingdom
- Spiritual gifts are not meant to be listed and inventoried as much as they are meant to be used to “faithfully administer God’s grace in its various forms.”
- Spiritual gifts are not ours for the choosing – they are gifts from the Holy Spirit given to us as he alone determines.
- No single spiritual gift has been given to all the members and no one single member has all the spiritual gifts.
Application: The Holy Spirit has given you special grace to be effective in service to others!
Discussion Questions:
On your social media, in a private journal, or in the comments below, answer the questions below.
- How can we cultivate humility in using our gifts?
- How does this blog affirm or challenge your understanding of spiritual gifts?
- How can you help others in your church understand and use their gifts?
Other Articles:
- How to Get Your Congregation Excited About Missions
- The Chair Thief
- The Sweetness of The Gospel
- How to Use Your Church Livestream
Dear Rich,
Our being retired now doesn’t lessen our love for and commitment to WorldVenture! We love how God brought you to the mission and we love the work you are doing! This blog is so excellent !! We keep thinking of people/ churches we could connect with you! And of course, our prayers for wc continue!
Sorry, world venture!!