Spiritual Gifts are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to Christians. These gifts are detailed across several key passages in the Bible, specifically in Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 and 28-30, and Ephesians 4:11. Understanding these gifts is crucial for believers seeking to serve effectively within the church and community. Let’s delve into a comprehensive exploration of each spiritual gift as defined and explained in scripture.
The Spiritual Gift of Administration
The term “administration” as a spiritual gift comes from the Greek word kubernesis. This is quite a vivid term, originally used to describe the role of a ship’s captain or master. Literally, it means “to steer” or “to govern.” It encompasses the idea of guiding, directing, and leading a group of people towards a common goal or destination. You can see related uses of kubernesis in Acts 27:11, referring to shipmasters, and Revelation 18:17, describing ship pilots.
Within the context of spiritual gifts, the Holy Spirit empowers Christians with the gift of administration to effectively organize, manage, and implement plans. These individuals excel at leading others in various church ministries. While related to leadership, administration is more focused on tasks and goals, emphasizing meticulous organization and attention to detail. This gift ensures that ministries run smoothly and efficiently. References to this gift can be found in 1 Corinthians 12:28 and Titus 1:4-5, highlighting its importance in church governance and operations.
The Spiritual Gift of Apostleship
Often confused with the office of Apostle, the spiritual gift of apostleship is distinct yet related. The office of Apostle was unique and limited to those personally chosen by Jesus, including the twelve disciples (Mark 3:13-19) and Paul (Romans 1:1). This office required specific qualifications: being an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry and resurrection (Acts 1:21-22; 1 Corinthians 9:1), and a direct calling from Jesus himself (Galatians 1:1). These original Apostles held unique authority to establish the early church, author Scripture, and perform foundational miracles (John 14:26, 2 Peter 3:15-16, 2 Corinthians 12:12).
The office of Apostle in that foundational sense no longer exists. However, the gift of apostleship continues today, albeit in a different form. Ephesians 4:7-12 speaks of Jesus giving apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers as gifts to the church after his ascension. These modern-day apostles don’t have the authority to write Scripture, as the biblical canon is closed, and their role in establishing the church is different – the foundation has already been laid.
Today, the gift of apostleship is manifested in those called to plant new ministries and churches, often in unreached areas. They are pioneers of the Gospel, venturing into different cultures to establish churches in challenging environments. Apostles today are instrumental in raising up and developing leaders, guiding pastors and shepherds, and casting vision for new initiatives. They often possess a cluster of gifts that equip them for this multifaceted ministry. They are leaders of leaders, ministers to ministers, and possess significant influence. Typically entrepreneurial, they are willing to take risks and tackle difficult tasks. Missionaries, church planters, Christian scholars involved in global initiatives, and leaders overseeing multiple ministries or churches often exhibit the gift of apostleship. Further scriptural references include Ephesians 4:11, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Acts 1:21-22, and 1 Corinthians 9:1.
The Spiritual Gift of Discernment
The spiritual gift of discernment, sometimes referred to as “discernment of spirits” or “distinguishing between spirits,” is crucial for spiritual clarity. The Greek word diakrisis encapsulates the essence of this gift, meaning the ability to distinguish, discern, judge, or appraise. It applies to people, statements, situations, or even spiritual environments. In the New Testament, diakrisis specifically refers to the ability to distinguish between spirits (1 Corinthians 12:10) and to discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14).
The Holy Spirit bestows the gift of discernment to enable certain Christians to clearly differentiate between influences – whether they originate from God, Satan, the world, or human nature. In a world filled with spiritual noise, those with this gift are invaluable to the church. They can warn believers of spiritual dangers and protect them from false teachings that can lead them astray. Examples of this gift in action are found in 1 Corinthians 12:10, Acts 5:3-6 (Peter discerning Ananias and Sapphira’s deception), Acts 16:16-18 (Paul recognizing the demonic influence on the slave girl), and 1 John 4:1 (testing the spirits).
The Spiritual Gift of Evangelism
While all Christians are called to share the Gospel and evangelize (Matthew 28:18-20), some are uniquely gifted and empowered in this area. The spiritual gift of evangelism is mentioned in Ephesians 4:11-12, where Paul describes Jesus giving “the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” The Greek word for evangelist, euaggelistes, literally means “one who brings good news.” This term is also used in Acts 21:8 (referring to Philip) and 2 Timothy 4:5 (exhorting Timothy to do the work of an evangelist).
Evangelists are specially equipped by the Holy Spirit to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly and effectively. They possess a deep burden for the lost and actively seek opportunities to share the truth. They can overcome the common fear of rejection and engage non-believers in meaningful conversations about Jesus. Their giftedness allows them to connect with diverse people and often see a greater response to the message of salvation. Evangelists are proactive in building relationships with those who don’t know Jesus, remaining open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance on who to approach. They understand the preciousness of the Gospel, viewing it as “treasure” (2 Corinthians 4:7), and rejoice in the beauty of “feet that bring good news” (Isaiah 52:7). Key scriptures for this gift include Ephesians 4:11, Acts 8:5-12 and 26-40 (Philip’s ministry), Acts 21:8, and Matthew 28:18-20.
The Spiritual Gift of Exhortation
The spiritual gift of exhortation is often synonymous with the “gift of encouragement.” The Greek word parakaleo is at the heart of this gift, meaning to beseech, exhort, call upon, encourage, and strengthen. Exhortation primarily involves reminding people of God’s powerful work in Christ, especially the saving work of Jesus through the atonement. Paul instructs Titus to use this gift in Titus 1:9 and throughout chapter 2, particularly Titus 2:11-15, and charges Timothy similarly in 2 Timothy 4:2.
The Holy Spirit empowers those with the gift of exhortation to strengthen and encourage believers, especially those wavering in their faith. They can uplift and motivate, as well as challenge and even rebuke when necessary, all for the purpose of fostering spiritual growth and action. The ultimate goal of an exhorter is to see the entire church continually built up and glorifying God. Scriptural support for this gift is found in Romans 12:8, Acts 11:23-24 (Barnabas’ ministry of encouragement), Acts 14:21-22, and Acts 15:32.
The Spiritual Gift of Faith
It’s crucial to distinguish the spiritual gift of faith from saving faith. All Christians possess saving faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), but not all receive the specific spiritual gift of faith. The Greek word pistis encapsulates the essence of faith, denoting confidence, certainty, trust, and assurance in the object of faith. The gift of faith builds upon saving faith, rooted in a deep, trusting relationship with Christ. Those with this gift exhibit extraordinary confidence and trust in God, enabling them to live boldly and witness God’s power in remarkable ways.
In the Bible, the gift of faith is often linked to great acts of faith. Acts 3:1-10 vividly illustrates this as Peter, with unwavering faith, commands a lame man at the Beautiful Gate to walk in Jesus’ name, resulting in immediate healing. Jesus himself spoke of this kind of faith, saying even a small amount could move mountains (Matthew 17:20; 21:21). Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 13:2.
The Holy Spirit distributes this gift to certain individuals within the church to inspire confidence and build up the collective faith of the community. Those with the gift of faith have an unshakeable trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness. They take God at His word and fully rely on Him, expecting Him to act and being unsurprised when He answers prayer or performs miracles. Scriptural examples and foundations for this gift are found in 1 Corinthians 12:9 and Hebrews 11:1-40 (the “Hall of Faith”).
The Spiritual Gift of Giving
The spiritual gift of giving is described using the Greek word metadidomi, which simply means “to impart” or “to give.” However, Romans 12:8 adds a crucial descriptor: haplotes. This word significantly clarifies the kind of giving associated with this gift. Haplotes means “sincerely, generously, and without pretense or hypocrisy.”
The Holy Spirit gifts certain individuals in the church with the ability to give generously and joyfully to meet various needs. This includes supporting church ministries, missionaries, and individuals who are unable to fully provide for themselves. The motivation behind this giving is to express God’s love and provision, giving Him all the glory. Those with this gift love to share their blessings with others. They are often hospitable and actively seek opportunities to help those in need. They are typically excellent stewards of their resources, often adjusting their lifestyles to give more to further the Gospel and care for the needy. They are grateful when needs are shared with them and experience great joy in meeting those needs. Scriptural references for this gift include Romans 12:8 and 13, 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 and 9:6-15 (Paul’s encouragement of generous giving), Acts 4:32-37 (the early church’s generosity), Galatians 4:15, and Philippians 4:10-18.
The Spiritual Gift of Healing
The spiritual gift of healing, found in 1 Corinthians 12:9, is actually in the plural in Greek: charismata iamaton, literally translated as “gifts of healings.” This plurality suggests a diversity in how healing manifests and that it is not a guaranteed ability on demand but is subject to God’s sovereign will. This gift is closely related to the gifts of faith and miracles, requiring a special measure of faith in its operation.
It’s important to note that even those gifted in healing, like the disciples who were given authority to heal and cast out demons, were not always successful. The Apostle Paul himself struggled with an ailment and was told God’s grace was sufficient, rather than being healed (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). The gift of healing is given at specific times and places to reveal God to those who are sick and suffering. When healing is not granted, it may be because God has a greater purpose in allowing the illness or infirmity to continue.
The spiritual gift of healing is deeply personal, revealing God’s compassion and heart for individuals. Jesus, the Great Healer and Physician, healed countless people during his earthly ministry (Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16; 9:35, Mark 1:34). Healings demonstrate God’s nearness and care for human suffering, ultimately intended to draw people to faith in Jesus Christ. God desires that those healed respond with faith, thanksgiving, and love, as exemplified by the healed leper in Luke 17:15-19 and the demon-possessed man in Mark 5:18-20. Physical healing, through God’s grace, should lead to spiritual healing – faith in Jesus and eternal life.
Individuals with the gift of healing are characterized by compassion for the sick and regular prayer for them. They possess strong faith that God can and will heal, yet they are not discouraged when healing doesn’t occur, understanding God’s sovereignty. Their motivation stems from a desire to see God’s power revealed and people drawn to Jesus. Their primary concern is the spiritual well-being of those they pray for and their relationship with Christ, longing for a future free from pain and suffering. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 12:9, 28, 30, and James 5:13-16 (instructions on prayer for healing).
The Spiritual Gift of Interpretation of Tongues
The spiritual gift of interpretation of tongues is intrinsically linked to the gift of speaking in tongues, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:10. The Greek word for interpretation, hermeneia, simply means to interpret, explain, or expound a message that is not naturally understandable. This spiritual gift is the supernatural ability to understand and explain messages spoken in an unknown language (tongues).
This is a revelatory gift, meaning God “reveals” the meaning of the message spoken in tongues, enabling the interpreter to communicate its meaning to those who need to hear it. When interpretation accompanies tongues in a church setting, the church is edified and God is glorified.
The Holy Spirit gives the gift of interpretation to specific individuals to make messages spoken in tongues understandable for the building up of the church. Like prophecy, interpreted tongues are intended to encourage and bless the church, deepening their love for God and their effectiveness in serving Him. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 12:10, 30, and 1 Corinthians 14:1-28 (detailed instructions on tongues and interpretation in church).
The Spiritual Gift of Knowledge
The spiritual gift of knowledge, also known as the “word of knowledge” or “utterance of knowledge,” is described by the Greek word gnosis, simply meaning knowledge and understanding. However, in the context of 1 Corinthians 12:8, the emphasis is on the ability to speak this knowledge to others in specific situations. Paul, in the opening chapters of 1 Corinthians, highlights the Gospel of Jesus Christ as the highest form of knowledge (1 Corinthians 1:4-7). Therefore, the gift of knowledge is an understanding of the world and our lives rooted in the Gospel and Scripture. It is closely related to the gift of wisdom, alluded to in 1 Corinthians 1:18-31.
The Holy Spirit empowers believers with this gift to bring understanding and insight to the church or to individual believers. Individuals with this gift are often deeply familiar with Scripture, having memorized and internalized much of it. They can recall and effectively communicate relevant truths at appropriate times. The gift of knowledge enables a believer to connect Scripture, especially the Gospel, to all aspects of life. They can discern the scriptural perspective on various situations and guide Christians in making decisions informed by Gospel truth. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 12:8, Romans 15:14 (Paul’s confidence in the Roman believers’ knowledge), and 2 Corinthians 2:14 (knowledge of Christ spread everywhere).
The Spiritual Gift of Leadership
The spiritual gift of leadership is closely connected to both administration and pastor/shepherd gifts. The Greek word for leadership here is proistemi, meaning to lead, assist, protect, and care for others. In Romans 12:8, it is placed between giving and mercy, intentionally highlighting its association with caring for people. This distinguishes it from administration, which is more task-oriented. Leadership, in this spiritual sense, prioritizes people and relationships. This doesn’t negate the caring nature of administration, but leadership focuses more directly on relational aspects.
The word proistemi is consistently linked to caring for people. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 urges respect for those who “labor among you and are over (proistemi) you in the Lord and admonish you,” emphasizing their labor of caring for souls. Paul also connects leadership and care in 1 Timothy 3:5: “if someone does not know how to manage (proistemi) his own household, how will he care for God’s church?”
The Holy Spirit bestows the gift of leadership to those who are called to care for God’s people and guide them into deeper relationship with Christ and each other. Their success is measured by the spiritual growth and success of those they lead. While capable of handling tasks, their leadership style is relational, driven by deep concern for the well-being of others. They are “visionary,” focusing less on mundane details than administrators. Many are entrepreneurial and willing to take risks to advance God’s kingdom through the church. They are deeply protective of those under their care and are equipped to lead effectively through crises. Scriptural references include Romans 12:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:12, and 1 Timothy 3:4-5, 12, 5:17 (qualities and responsibilities of leaders).
The Spiritual Gift of Mercy
All Christians are called to be merciful, reflecting God’s mercy to us (Matthew 18:33; Ephesians 2:4-6). The Greek word for the spiritual gift of mercy is eleeo, meaning to be patient and compassionate towards those suffering or afflicted. This gift encompasses concern for both the physical and spiritual needs of hurting people. Those with this gift possess deep empathy for others’ trials and sufferings. They can walk alongside people through extended periods of difficulty, offering consistent support and care throughout their healing process. They are truly God’s hands and feet to those in need.
The Holy Spirit gives the spiritual gift of mercy to love and assist those who are suffering, walking with them until God lifts their burdens. This gift is rooted in God’s mercy towards sinners and is expressed through tangible compassion. Those with this gift can “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) and “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). They are highly sensitive to the feelings and circumstances of others, quickly noticing when someone is struggling. They are often excellent listeners and understand the power of simply “being there” for others. Scriptural references include Romans 12:8, Matthew 5:7 (blessed are the merciful), Luke 10:30-37 (the Good Samaritan), James 3:17 (wisdom characterized by mercy), and Jude 22-23 (showing mercy to doubters).
The Spiritual Gift of Miracles
The spiritual gift of miracles, like healing, is described in a plural form in Scripture. 1 Corinthians 12:10 uses the Greek phrase energemata dynameon, literally “workings of powers.” This double plural again suggests a variety of miraculous actions and that these gifts are not constantly available at the gifted person’s will. They are bestowed according to God’s sovereign will and purposes, not at the discretion of the individual performing the miracle.
Jesus performed numerous miracles during his earthly ministry (John 20:30-31, Acts 2:22). The Apostles also regularly performed diverse miracles, including casting out demons, healing, raising the dead, and even inflicting judgment (Acts 2:43; 3:1-10; 5:1-16; 9:36-43; 13:4-12; 19:11-12). Other believers, like Stephen (Acts 6:8) and Philip (Acts 8:4-8), also performed miracles.
Miracles were given to the church to reveal God’s presence and glory and to inspire awe, wonder, and godly fear. Despite opposition to the church, miracles often led to more people believing in Jesus and glorifying God, strengthening the faith and boldness of the church (Acts 4:29-31; 9:35, 42).
Those with the spiritual gift of miracles often have heightened sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s presence and power. They possess a special measure of faith and a desire for God to reveal himself and draw people to Jesus. They are careful to point to Jesus, not themselves, and avoid seeking personal followers. They understand God’s sovereignty and that He works as He wills, but they remain available and attentive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting. This gift is often accompanied by fervent prayer and petition for God to reveal His glory. They attribute all power and glory to God for any miraculous works, recognizing their dependence on His grace and pointing to Jesus rather than the miracles themselves. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28-29, Acts 1:8 (power to be witnesses), and Galatians 3:5 (God working miracles among them).
The Spiritual Gift of Pastor/Shepherd
The spiritual gift of pastor, or pastor/shepherd, carries significant responsibilities. It is closely linked to leadership and teaching. The Greek word poimen means shepherd or overseer.
In biblical times, shepherds had multifaceted responsibilities: protecting sheep from predators, caring for the wounded and sick, rescuing lost or trapped sheep, and guiding them to nourishment and rest. This resulted in a deep trust and bond between shepherd and sheep, with sheep recognizing and following their shepherd’s voice, even amidst other flocks.
Pastors are called shepherds because their role mirrors that of a physical shepherd, but in a spiritual sense. They are called and gifted to care for the spiritual well-being of a local congregation – God’s people. Pastors are primarily servants – servants of God and servants of His bride, the church. They are given a combination of gifts to meet the diverse needs of a church community.
The pastor’s goal is to reveal God’s glory in Christ through the Holy Spirit to people who need God’s grace. Teaching the Word of God is central to this. The gift of pastor is directly linked to teaching in Ephesians 4:11 and elsewhere, sometimes referred to as the gift of pastor-teacher. Teaching Scripture is a key requirement for overseers (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9). By teaching, pastors “feed” God’s sheep.
The Holy Spirit gives the gift of pastor to humbly teach, guide, protect, and lead the church in its mission – the Great Commission. Pastors deeply love the Gospel and center their lives and ministries on it. They don’t seek personal recognition, but are placed in authority by the Holy Spirit. The pastor’s role is one of humility and service, constantly relying on God’s grace. Scriptural references include Ephesians 4:11, Jeremiah 3:15 (shepherds after God’s own heart), Acts 20:28 (elders as overseers/shepherds), and John 10:11-18 (Jesus as the Good Shepherd).
The Spiritual Gift of Prophecy
The spiritual gift of prophecy is exceptional and highly valued. Paul encourages in 1 Corinthians 14:1, “Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.” This gift is a blessing to the church and should not be suppressed or disregarded (1 Thessalonians 5:20). However, New Testament prophecy differs from Old Testament prophecy. Old Testament prophets spoke the authoritative Word of God directly, their words becoming Scripture with the declaration “Thus says the Lord.” New Testament prophecy, while divinely inspired, must be tested (1 Corinthians 14:29-33; 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21; 1 John 4:1-3). In the New Testament, the Apostles, not prophets, assumed the role of scriptural proclamation held by Old Testament prophets.
The Greek word propheteia describes the gift of prophecy – the ability to receive and deliver a divinely inspired message to the church. These messages can include exhortation, correction, revealing hidden sins, predicting future events, comfort, inspiration, and other revelations intended to equip and edify the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:3-4, 24-25). Crucially, these are not authoritative Scripture, but human interpretations of received revelation, expressed in human language and filtered through a human mind. This is why testing against Scripture is essential (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21).
The Holy Spirit gifts prophecy to make God’s heart known and to build up the church. This gift benefits both believers and unbelievers, serving as a sign of God’s presence within the church (1 Corinthians 14:22-25). Those with the gift of prophecy are sensitive to the Holy Spirit and the needs of the church. They should be humble, continually studying Scripture to test their revelations before speaking. When they speak, they should expect and encourage others to evaluate their message against Scripture. This collaborative discernment builds up the church in unity (1 Corinthians 14:4, 26). Scriptural references include Romans 12:6, 1 Corinthians 12:10 and 14:1-5, Ephesians 4:11-12, and 1 Peter 4:10-11 (speaking as oracles of God).
The Spiritual Gift of Service
The spiritual gift of service, or ministering, encompasses a broad range of practical actions within the church. Two Greek words describe this gift. Diakonia, found in Romans 12:7, literally means “to wait tables” but is broadly translated as “ministry” in the Bible. It refers to any act of service done in love to build up the community. Antilepsis, translated “helping” in 1 Corinthians 12:28, has a similar meaning – to aid and assist in love within the community.
The Holy Spirit empowers believers with this gift to fill ministry gaps and meet the practical needs of the church as it pursues the Great Commission. The goal is to energize the church and free up others to use their gifts fully, resulting in continued edification and expanded outreach.
Examples of this gift in action are seen in Acts 6:1-7 (the appointment of deacons to serve practical needs) and 1 Corinthians 16:15-16 (the household of Stephanas devoting themselves to service). Those with the gift of service are dedicated to spreading the Gospel through practical support. They serve in ways that enable others with more public gifts to flourish. They have a heart devoted to Jesus and a desire to follow His example of servant leadership (Matthew 20:25-28, Mark 10:42-45). They don’t seek recognition, finding contentment in serving behind the scenes, knowing their contributions bless the church, demonstrate Christ’s love, and glorify God. Scriptural references include Romans 12:7, 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 and 28, Acts 20:35 (laboring to support the weak), 2 Timothy 4:11 (Mark’s service to Paul), and Revelation 2:19 (commendation for service).
The Spiritual Gift of Teaching
The spiritual gift of teaching carries a significant responsibility within the church. James 3:1 cautions, “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” Teachers are stewards of God’s Word to His people, entrusted with effectively communicating what the Bible says, its meaning, and its application for Christian living.
The Greek word for teachers is didaskalos, from which we derive “didactic.” Didasko means to teach, instruct, instill doctrine, explain, and expound. Those with the gift of teaching love in-depth study of God’s Word. They immerse themselves in Scripture to know God and make Him known. They find joy in seeing others learn and apply biblical truth. They highlight the Gospel’s thread throughout Scripture and its power to glorify Jesus in believers’ lives.
The Holy Spirit gifts teaching to help the church fulfill its role as “a pillar and buttress of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). Teachers safeguard the church from error and sin. They are passionate about accurate Scripture interpretation and hate misuse or misrepresentation of God’s Word. They love truth and speak it in love, never concealing or distorting it. They emulate Jesus, who taught publicly in synagogues and the Temple. They are called to demonstrate God’s love while fearlessly proclaiming His truth to the world. Their ministry strengthens God’s Word and fosters the growth and maturity of Christ’s Bride until His return. Scriptural references include Ephesians 4:11, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Romans 12:7, and James 3:1 (warning about the responsibility of teaching).
The Spiritual Gift of Tongues
The spiritual gift of tongues is more accurately understood as the gift of languages. The Greek word glossa, or glossolalia, literally means “tongue,” but in the context of spiritual gifts, it refers to “languages.” Speaking in tongues is uttering prayer or messages glorifying God in a language unknown to the speaker, typically directed to God (1 Corinthians 14:2).
To understand this gift, consider the history of language. In Eden, humanity had one language and direct communion with God. This changed after the Fall. Humanity retained one language until Babel (Genesis 11), where God confused languages and scattered people due to their prideful attempt to “make a name” for themselves and replace God.
After Babel, God chose Abraham and his descendants, eventually forming Israel. Hebrew became the language of God’s Word. However, the rest of the world, speaking diverse languages, remained largely separated from God’s redemptive plan.
Pentecost marks a reversal of the curse of divided languages. In Acts 2, people from various nations heard God’s people proclaiming His mighty works in their own languages. This was the beginning of language being redeemed for its intended purpose: to glorify God and draw all people to Himself.
Revelation 7:9-12 depicts a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and tongue united in praising God in heaven. This is where tongues will cease (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). The gift of tongues serves to glorify God now and prepare the church to glorify Him eternally. However, it is a partial gift, not given to all believers, and requires interpretation for church edification.
Key points about tongues:
- Not all believers receive this gift (1 Corinthians 12:30). It’s not a requirement or sign of salvation.
- Tongues can be human languages (Acts 2) or languages unknown to anyone present (1 Corinthians 14:2).
- Tongues are not ecstatic speech but are orderly and controllable (1 Corinthians 14:27-28, 33, 39-40).
- Tongues should not be spoken in church without interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
- Tongues should not be forbidden (1 Corinthians 14:39).
The Holy Spirit gives tongues to glorify God and, with interpretation, to edify the church. Scripture extensively addresses this gift, encouraging its proper use with pure motives and under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 12:10, 30, and 14:4, 39, Acts 2:4, and Acts 19:6.
The Spiritual Gift of Wisdom
The spiritual gift of wisdom, like knowledge, is also called the “word of wisdom” or “utterance of wisdom.” The Greek word sophia refers to deep understanding of God’s Word and commandments, leading to holy living. In 1 Corinthians 12:8, it means speaking to individuals or situations with profound understanding and righteous perspective, guiding others toward holiness and worship.
Psalm 111:10 states, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!” True wisdom begins with reverence for God, leading to understanding and righteous living, ultimately resulting in God’s praise.
James 3:17 describes “wisdom from above” as “first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” This wisdom is a product of the Holy Spirit. The ultimate wisdom is found in the cross of Christ, “folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
The Holy Spirit gifts wisdom to impart truth and understanding, prompting a response of holiness and worship in believers’ lives. Wisdom transcends mere knowledge, manifesting in transformed hearts and actions.
Those with the gift of wisdom deeply understand God’s holiness and their own lack of it. They recognize this in others and share truth with compassion and boldness. They draw from life experiences to share God’s lessons. They discern potential consequences of decisions and actions, offering guidance to avoid harm and pursue God-glorifying goals. They cut through confusion and provide direction in challenging times. The church needs wisdom to navigate uncertainty and difficulty. Scriptural references include 1 Corinthians 1:17-31 and 2:1-16, 1 Corinthians 12:8, Colossians 1:9-10 and 2:1-3, and James 3:13-18 (characteristics of true wisdom).
