Together - Daily DevotionalSample

Types of gifts 

There are several lists of gifts in the New Testament. Romans 12:6-8 contains prophecy (preaching), serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading and compassion.  We should all speak truth to one another, serve, encourage, give, be compassionate etc. but some people are supernaturally gifted in these areas. In Ephesians there are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers (Eph.4:11). 1 Cor.12 contains two lists written by Paul: one known as the gifts of the Spirit (verses 1-11) and one of “ministries” such as apostles, teachers and leaders [administration] (verses 28-29).

The “classic” nine gifts of the Spirit shown in verses 8-10 can be sub-divided into three types. There are gifts of speaking or inspiration (prophecy, tongues, interpretation), gifts of understanding or revelation (wisdom, knowledge, discernment) and gifts of action or demonstration (faith, healing, miracles). 

Some gifts we use such as a gift of healing and some gifts we become such as a teacher, evangelist or leader.  But all gifts must be used in love and not pride, impatience or ambition which is why Paul inserts chapter 13 into the middle of his exposition of the gifts.  We are after all one body with many members, all of whom are equally important, equally loved and equally valued.

Prayer: Holy Spirit I ask for Your gifting that I may play my part in the body of Christ