The words of Jesus are in red text.

Before you start reading…take a moment to answer a question: How would you define the word “church?” • What was the initial visualization in your mind as you considered your answer? • Did you see a building with seats, possibly stained glass windows, and so forth? • Or did you see all types of people spread across the world who are bound together by the Holy Spirit? “For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many.”: 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” Romans 12:5 The church is not a physical entity…but is comprised of Christ-seeking persons such as you and me…who gather together to worship God and serve one another. As such, a church building is simply a convenient meeting place. Here are additional thought-provoking questions. Jesus Christ did a multitude of “things” during His ministry. For example, He taught us truths, performed miracles, demonstrated mercy, and so forth. • Can you identify at least 3 more? • Why did Jesus do these things (what was His purpose)? • Is it possible to assign all that Jesus did to the following two categories? 1 . He pointed us towards God. 2 . He demonstrated how to be a servant. • Is it important for the various aspects of Jesus’ ministry to continue within the church? • If continuance is important, why and what must occur to make this happen? For in truth, Jesus (via the Holy Spirit) has equipped His church with the various aspects of His ministry so that we can point towards God as we serve one another…all in the form of spiritual gifts. “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10 “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-12 “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.” Romans 12:6-8 “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 “And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:28 The table below lists the twenty spiritual gifts defined in the scriptures above. As you continue to read, it is important to realize and remember the following: • The combination of all gifts embody the ministry of Jesus, equips us to share the Gospel, facilitates serving one another, and are dependent upon empowerment from the Holy Spirit. • But what is most significant, Paul explained love is more important than all the gifts. In other words, our God-given gifts should be expressed because of our love for God and our love for others. This truth was reinforced by Jesus, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength...and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Mark 12:30-31 o “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.” 1 Cor.13:1-3 o “Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts.” 1 Cor.14:1 Note: Gifts are dependent upon (and enhance the effectiveness of) other gifts. For example, an effective Bible teacher will also have the gift of knowledge—plus, may have the gifts of discernment, wisdom, and more. To facilitate learning, the tables below segment the gifts between four categories: foundational, wonderous, communication, and ministering. Each category and the associated gifts above… are explained below. Foundational gifts may be considered similar to the foundation of a home upon which all other components of the home are attached and interconnected. For without a solid foundation the walls, roof and everything else will eventually collapse as the “stormy winds and rains” of life occur. Note: The foundational gifts are common to all persons because they are required for human existence and survival. However, God greatly magnifies these gifts within Christians to operate within the spiritual realm. Faith : A simple definition of faith is comprised of a belief in something that has no present tangible proof of its existence. This type of God-designed faith is common to all persons and is required to function in life, and for salvation. “God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.” Romans 12:3 It is this type of faith that is exercised when someone accepts Jesus as their Savior and Lord. However, there is a gift of faith that extends far beyond what is common to all. This type of faith consists of an extraordinary trust in God’s word, His promises, His power, and His presence. For as we grow, mature, and diligently seek Jesus—our faith in God is magnified—which pleases Him. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6 “I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20 Discernment : All persons have varying degrees of the God-designed attribute of discernment, or behavioral insight—which is also required to function in life. Discernment relies upon our other God-designed attributes of self-awareness, analytical thinking, empathy, and skepticism…to recognize, evaluate, and make judgments of persons based upon their words and actions. But there is a spiritual level of discernment that transcends what is common to all—because it is revealed by the Holy Spirit. This is when our discernment enables us to see and understand what’s going on inside a person’s heart and soul. This is also when our discernment is accompanied with God’s grace, His love, and compassionate empathy as we feel someone’s pain, and pray with heart-felt emotions for their physical and/or spiritual healing. There is another facet of spiritual discernment which enables us to perceive and recognize the influence of Satan and his minions. This is when internal “red flags” of concern and discomfort arise due to clandestine activities of evil entities that are manipulating someone to do their bidding. Jesus provided us with insight in how to recognize the influence of evil: by their fruits (words and behavior). “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:15-20 Knowledge : Similar to faith and discernment, we have an innate ability to acquire and store vast amounts of knowledge within our memory. Knowledge is commonly defined as information, understanding, or a skill gained from experience or education. Our ability to store and recall knowledge is a God-designed attribute which is also required for day-to-day living. However, from a biblical perspective, there is a higher spiritual realm of knowledge that is only obtained when we seek God with all of our heart. “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 For this is how we obtain, “The knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2-3 The gospel (“good news”) of Jesus Christ is simply defined as forgiveness for those who believe that Jesus died for our sins. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Romans 1:16 The gospel is amazingly simple to understand—which provides the one and only “key” to unlock the mystery of God, and provides us with an ability to obtain spiritual knowledge. When you think about it…the gospel has to be simple enough for a child to wade through the waters…yet deep enough that a philosopher will never touch bottom. But there are those who reject the gospel of Jesus, “Whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” 2 Corinthians 4:4 “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.” John 3:19 Wisdom : Wisdom comprises an ability to combine knowledge with good judgement to navigate life’s challenges. Unfortunately, many (including ourselves at various times) lack wisdom—which often causes us to experience remorse and humility because we did not rely upon the wisdom of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It only takes a moment of reflection to identify our past mistakes (including unwise decisions by others). “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:19 Here are two aspects of wisdom that assist in understanding: 1 . Although knowledge may exist without wisdom, wisdom cannot exist without knowledge—because wisdom involves the insightful application of knowledge. “The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” Proverbs 18:15 2 . Godly wisdom is a gift from God. a . “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives it to all liberally and without reproach.” James 1:5 b . “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” 1 Cor. 1:26-27, 30 Here is an interesting revelation. Read the above scripture again. But this time consider how the life of Jesus, His ministry, and His death exemplified every point of God’s word above. For He was not considered wise by the religious leaders. Although He was able, He chose not to demonstrate His absolute power. He lived a pauper’s life. He caused those who thought they were wise to stumble upon their foolishness by His words. And to this day He is despised by many. For additional insight, read the prophecy of what would occur to the Messiah in Isaiah 53 . Wonderous : A feeling of inspired amazement because something extraordinary and wonderful occurred. Miracles : These are supernatural occurrences that defy laws of nature, transcend rational expectations, and challenge logical explanations. Jesus performed a multitude of miracles from turning water into wine ( John 2:1-11 ), walked on water ( Mat. 14:22-33 ), healed the blind ( John 9:1-12 ), cast out demons ( Matthew 8:28-34 ), and many more miracles. The miracles of Jesus provided verifiable evidence of the accuracy and authenticity of His divine words and appointment by God. However, the Bible also describes false miracles—performed by Satan and his minions—which are performed in response to divine miracles to deceive and destroy. This occurred after Moses performed miracles before Pharoah ( Exodus chapters 7-11 ), and will occur during the last days in response to the miracles performed by God’s two witnesses ( Revelation 11:3-13 ). “For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” Mark 13:22 Healing : This gift is defined as a process of restoring to health—and encompasses our physical body, psychological status, emotions, perceptions, and spiritual relationship with God. Jesus performed multiple miracles that restored physical health (which were easier to see). However, Jesus also performed miracles within those who listened to Him teach during His ministry. It is our awareness of the words spoken by Jesus—combined with our understanding and belief in God’s purpose in the sacrificial death of His Son—that results in healings within the heart and soul as they are transformed from death unto life. • Jesus declared, “The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63 • Jesus, “Bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going stray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:24-25 Tongues : This gift is defined as a spiritual God-given ability to speak a different language. To some tongues is another culture’s language. To others, tongues comprise an ability to speak an unknown spiritual language. Because of the nature of this gift, speaking in an unknown language is accepted by some Christian denominations and rejected by others. Those who accept and those who reject based their belief on rational biblical principles. For more information on tongues read the 14th chapter of 1 Corinthians ( 1 Cor. 14 ). How you respond to this biblically-defined gift should be based upon prayer, the Holy Spirit, and your heart. In addition, never allow this gift to be a point of contention between believers in Jesus—because we are all one in Him. To minimize the potential conflict within the body, we were instructed, “Do not forbid to speak with tongues.” 1 Cor. 14:39 Interpretation   of   Tongues : 1 Corinthians chapter 14 also states tongues should be interpreted when others hear what is spoken. The ability to interpret tongues is a gift, and is for the edification of the listener. Communication is also a God-designed attribute that is required for humans to function and survive. Imagine what our world would be like if we were unable to communicate anything beyond how animals communicate. As such, our ability to communicate complex ideas—using a multitude of mediums—exemplifies how God equipped mankind with far more communication capabilities than the animal kingdom. However, there is a significant difference between communicating to the mind and communicating through “protective barriers” to reach the heart and soul—with the intent of enhancing someone’s relationship with God and with others. For this ability is an indicator that reveals each person within this category has received a blessed spiritual gift of speaking God’s truths that changes us from within. Evangelist : An evangelist proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ: The good news of how we may be forgiven for our sins and obtain eternal salvation by believing in the sacrificial death of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. The compassion of an evangelist is to reach those who are not part of the body of Christ (the church) by revealing they have been misdirected by Satan’s lies, are bound by sin, live in darkness, and may be saved through Jesus. ( John 3:17-18 ) Prophet : A prophet may perform one or both of two roles: speaks for God by declaring His truths, and/or reveals details of what will occur in the future. Jesus warned about false prophets ( Mat. 7:15 )—especially in the last days ( Mat. 24:24 ). A true prophet will never contradict God’s word, and their warning will come true ( 1 John 4:1 ). Paul wrote, “Desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.” 1 Corinthians 14:1 Teacher : A common definition of a teacher is they impart knowledge. However, knowledge (without day-to-day spiritual application) provides no value. As such, from a biblical perspective, an effective Bible teacher also explains how scripture relates to our daily walk with Jesus—with the objective of enhancing spiritual growth, maturity and wisdom. (See Proverbs 1:1-33 ; Colossians 1:28 ; 2 Timothy 3:16-17 .) Exhorting : This gift is expressed when we encourage someone. An example of exhortation is similar to when we (as parents) stand on the sidelines near the end of a foot race watching our child—who is exhausted—and we urge them to give it their best and finish the race. As such, we can all relate to times when we needed encouragement from others: someone to talk to; someone who would listen; someone who would empathize; and someone who would respond in a positive loving way to help us through the challenges in life. Those who have the gift of exhorting usually has the gift of discernment (to see and understand someone’s pain), and wisdom (in what to say)—and especially love. “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 (Also see 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ; Galatians 6:10 ; Hebrews 10:24-25 ; Colossians 3:16 .) Pastor : A pastor is a Christian who is called by God to lead, guide and serve a group of believers by performing the roles of an evangelist, prophet, teacher, exhorter, and administrational overseer. This is not an easy task and can be overwhelming at times because of the myriad of things they do throughout each day. In addition, a pastor is just like you and me—including the flaws associated with our sinful nature. As such, it is important for us to continually pray for and encourage our pastors. Ministering : Encompasses activities that attend to the needs of others. While there are many types of ministry, all require a servant’s attitude and perception of the heart that it’s not about me…but it’s about loving God and serving others. Ministering requires submission to the will of God as we give of ourselves, our time, our talents, and our resources—all driven by a heart-felt empathetic desire to assist and improve the lives of others. For this desire encapsulates the heart of Jesus and His ministry. Apostle : The word apostle comes from the Greek word, apostelló (a messenger or one who is sent on a mission). The first apostles were called by Jesus to follow Him—who witnessed His ministry, death and resurrection. Prior to His death—as a means to “validate” their divine appointment—Jesus gave them authority and power to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. While He was alive, Jesus gave them spiritual gifts and power ( Mark 3:13-19 ), and specific instructions ( Matthew 10:1-42 ). After His death and resurrection Jesus appeared to them and declared, “ You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 Shortly thereafter (the Day of Pentecost), the apostles received additional power from the Holy Spirit that fully equipped them to be empowered as authenticated messengers who were sent on a mission to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and advance His kingdom—which continu es to influence Christianity today. Leadership : The world’s definition of a leader does not align with God’s definition. The world’s definition of a leader is based upon a hierarchical design where the leader is at the top and those who are led are beneath the leader. However, Jesus completely turned this design upside down—because a leader should be at the bottom serving all of those above Him. To reinforce this point Jesus demonstrated and declared the following: • He washed His disciples feet. ( John 13:1-17 ) • The greatest will be a servant, those who exalt themselves will be humbled. ( Matthew 23:11-12 ) • Whoever wants to become great must become a servant unto others. ( Matthew 20:25-28 ) • Jesus came as a servant who gave His life as a ransom for many. ( Mark 10:45 ) From an employment perspective, most of us can relate to the experience of working for an undesirable manager who uses their top down power to force productivity—versus one who does everything possible to raise us up and make us more successful. Helps : This gift refers to persons who desire to support or assist other ministries within the church. These are those who (with a spirit of humble servitude and grace) perform mundane tasks such as cleaning the church building and tending to the grounds—often in obscurity—because they do it out of their love for God and others. Those with the gift of helps will seek to support the body of Christ by seeking ways to assist and/or fulfill the needs of others—such as offering an encouraging word or providing a meal. In effect, these are the ones who come alongside others to strengthen the “family bonds” and share the love of Christ Mercy : When we believe in Jesus Christ we receive God’s grace and God’s mercy. God’s grace means we receive a free gift that we are not worthy to receive. God’s mercy means we do not receive the punishment we deserve. The gift of mercy is when we extend our empathetic compassion and kindness towards someone who deserves punishment for what they have done. In truth, we should pass on the mercy we have received from God and not blame nor hold others accountable for what they do. Jesus declared, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7 Giving : Those who receive this gift have a deep desire and capacity to contribute their resources, time and talents to support God’s work. Their actions are based upon giving to God as they give to others. The spiritual gift of giving comes from the heart, for the glory of God, and the wellbeing of others. The gift of giving is not compulsory, it should not be given with reluctance, it should not seek recognition from others, and should be done with cheerfulness. If there is negativity in your heart…do not give…because God is more interested in the attitude of our hearts towards Him…than He is with what we give. In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus viewed a poor widow who gave only two small coins to the temple treasury. Others gave large amounts. “Jesus said , ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.’” “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Administration : One who has this gift is able to visualize a desired objective (or destination), identify a plan, determine what is required to get there, use their interpersonal skills to obtain resources and assistance from others, and continues to oversee and guide until the objective is reached. For example, let’s say you were asked to put together a “pot luck” dinner for the church body (where each person or family prepares food to share). One who has the gift of administration would likely consider the following: • Determine what would be the best day, time and location. • Create a list for people to document what they will bring (to make sure a variety of food is available). • Plan for tables, chairs, etc. • Identify and seek to obtain other “things” that are lacking (plates, cups, etc.). • Identify and contact those who may help. • Plan for clean up afterward. When you think about it…virtually everything that occurs within a church has been influenced by persons with varying gifts of administration…which reinforces why God added it to the list of spiritual gifts. Serving : This very important gift is similar to the gift of helps in that it is represented by a heart-felt desire to demonstrate God’s love by giving of themselves to meet the needs of others. For in truth…we like to be served. However, those with this gift like to serve. Those with the gift of serving are those who: • Perform various (much needed) tasks within the church. • Are happy doing things “behind the scenes.” • Willingly help someone when they become aware of their need. • Are blessed when they are able to fulfill their need to serve others. Summary Every Christian is given one or more spiritual gifts for the edification of the church and for God’s glory. In addition: • It is God who gives the gifts, and not our own choice. • All of the gifts combined: o Correlate to the ministry of Jesus. o Are needed to maintain the health, livelihood, growth, and resiliency of the church. o Are spiritually useless if they are not exercised in love. To gain greater understanding and appreciation of spiritual gifts read 1 Corinthians chapter 12 . I pray this lesson has enhanced your spiritual awareness of the various gifts God gives to members of His church. If you are unaware of your spiritual gift(s)…I suggest first praying, and then asking a leader within your church if there are any needs within the body that you may assist with. Then with a humble and obedient heart—all for the glory of God and your brothers and sisters in Christ—fulfill the need. If you do this with the right desire and attitude in your heart…you will be blessed during and after your effort. But most important, you efforts will be recognized and rewarded by Jesus. “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:9-15 I pray the outpouring of your gifts symbolically represent gold, silver, and precious stones—due to your love for God and your heart-felt desire to edify the faith and spiritual growth of others. For we all look forward to these words spoken by Jesus: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:21 All for His Glory! Harold D. Thomas Thought Provoking Questions The purpose of the questions is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Bible, this Bible study topic, and ourselves. The questions may be answered by each reader, or used by a Bible study group leader, or church pastor. The questions should be answered or discussed after reading “Spiritual Gifts.” In addition, the questions are designed to enhance learning via the determination of personal opinions and/or discovering how the lesson content relates to our personal lives. As such, no answers are provided. Questions The lesson asked if it was possible to assign all of the things Jesus did during His ministry to the following two categories: (1) He pointed us towards God; and (2) He demonstrated how to be a servant. Can you identify another category? Or is it possible these two sufficiently define the attributes of what Jesus did? Why is it important for God (via the Holy Spirit) to disburse spiritual gifts to believers in Jesus Christ? What is the one thing that is more important than all the gifts? Why? The lesson explained the foundational gifts are common to all persons, but are magnified within believers by the Holy Spirit. (1) Why are each of the 4 common gifts below required for human existence and survival? (2) Define the difference between the common gifts and the Holy Spirit magnified gifts. • Faith • Discernment • Knowledge • Wisdom The lesson states spiritual gifts are interdependent (dependent upon one another). Identify an example and explain why. The lesson states spiritual gifts enhance one another (synergistic). Synergistic means the combined influence and power of two or more gifts working together is greater than the influence and power achieved by the gifts working separately. Identify an example and explain the synergistic relationship. Which gift(s) have you received? Which gift(s) do you desire? Identify at least one heart-felt motivation that one should experience when exercising a gift. Why is it important to not seek earthly recognition when we exercise a gift? Who is worthy to receive recognition when we exercise a gift? Why? What is the most important thing you learned from this lesson? You may download a P DF version of the questions by clicking on this button.