1Cor. 12: 1-14, 27-31 1 Peter 4: 10-11 Eph. 4: 7-16 Rom. 12: 1-8 Spiritual Gifts. 1Cor. 12: 1-14, 27-31 1 Peter 4: 10-11 Eph. 4: 7-16 Rom. 12: 1-8

Spiritual Gift - Definition A Spiritual Gift is a special divine empowerment bestowed on each believer by the Holy Spirit’. Each believer has been the exact gift(s) and resources needed to fulfill their role in the body of Christ (The church).

Obejective Realize the importance of Spiritual gifts in the church, (both universal and in local church, e.g. Good Tidings). Know our Spiritual gifts and develop them. Use them appropriately to glorify God in service to Him.

Purpose of Spiritual gifts The glory of God 1 Pet. 4: 10 , 11 To Benefit each believer (1 Cor. 12:7) The building up of the church (Eph. 4: 11,12) The unity of the church (Eph. 4:13) Growth & maturity of the church (Eph. 4: 13-14)

“Gifts of the Spirit” is not “The fruit of The Spirit” Gal. 5:22,23 ‘

Fruit of the Spirit Gal 5:22-23 Godly qualities that characterizes the christain who allows The Holy Spirit to rule their lives. Love Joy Peace Longsuffering Kindness Goodness Faithfulness Gentleness Self Control

Spiritual gifts & Fruit of the Spirit Determines what he or she does (outward) Gifts differ in individuals Does not depend on spiritual maturity (1 Cor. 1: 5- 7) Satan often imitates Will cease (1 Cor. 13:8) Defines the christian’s character (inward) Fruit does not differ Depends on maturity Satan can’t imitate Permanent

Spiritual gifts are not talents.

Talents Spiritual Gifts Present from Natural birth Natural ability Used to communicate on a natural level Benefits the whole creation Present from the new birth Supernatural ability Used to benefit saints and for evangelism Largely benefits the church (which will benefit mankind)

Spiritual gifts Word of Wisdom 1 Cor. 12:8 Word of Knowledge 1 Cor 12: 8 Faith 1 Cor 12:9 Prophecy 1 Cor. 12:10 Healing 1 Cor. 12: 8, 28, 30

Spiritual gifts Discernment of spirits 1 Cor. 12: 10 Prophecy (Eph.4:11; Rom 12;6; 1Cor. 12:6) Tongues: 1 Cor. 12: 10, 28,30; 14: 1-40 Interpretation of Tongues 1 Cor. 12:10,30; 14:5, 13, 28-30 Helps 1 Cor. 12: 28 Administration 1 Cor. 12: 28

Spiritual Gifts Administration 1 Cor. 12: 28 Apostleship (Eph. 4:11) Evangelist (Eph 4:11) Pastor (Eph 4:11) Teaching (Eph. 4:11; 1 Cor. 12: 28,29; Rom. 12:7)

Spiritual Gifts Ministry (service) Rom 12:7 Exhortation Rom. 12:8 Giving Rom. 12:8 Leadership Rom. 12: 8 Mercy Rom. 12:8

The Christians attitude to Spiritual gifts Should be desired by all christians (1 Cor. 12:31) Should not be coveted Should not be used for “self glorification” (Pride ??) .. “not to think of themselves more highly than they ought to” (Rom 12:3) Use should be motivated only by love. 1 Cor 13

Discovering your Spiritual gifts . Prayer Phil 4:6,7; Ja. 1:5 Study the Scripture: 1 Peter 4; Rom. 12, Eph. 4, 1 Cor. 12 – 14 Be active in serving the lord Eph. 2:10

Discovering your spiritual gifts 2 Ability – service results in blessing repeatedly Affirmation from God Confirmation from faithful experienced believers of your ability to serve

Developing your gift Spiritual growth: Study of Scripture Prayer for knowledge, wisdom Stir up the gift(s) 2 Timothy 1:6 Evaluation of strengths and weaknesses of ministry -Against the Scriptures -Self Evaluation -Other believers (seek their candid advice)

Spiritual gifts (summary) Given only by the Holy Spirit Given to every believer as the Spirit chooses Your gift(s) will determine your area of service You are a steward of your Spiritual gifts Your spiritual gifts are critical to the qualitative and quantitative growth of the body of Christ.

Spiritual gifts (summary) Spiritual gifts should not be a cause of pride Spiritual gifts should not be a cause of discouragement. (it takes time to develop) Never exalt the gift above the Giver Spiritual gifts can be counterfeited by the flesh and demonic forces.

Spiritual gifts (summary) Use of spiritual gifts must be motivated only by love. Pride has no place in the Lords service. “…. one ought not to think of themselves more highly than they ought to”. (Rom. 12 v. 3) Remember we must give an account of the use of our gifts.