Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

61
Understanding & Understanding & Utilizing our Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts Spiritual Gifts PMBC Summer Session Bible PMBC Summer Session Bible Study Study Instructor: Dr. Guy A. Instructor: Dr. Guy A. Williams, Sr. Williams, Sr.

description

Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts. PMBC Summer Session Bible Study Instructor: Dr. Guy A. Williams, Sr. The Importance of Spiritual Gifts. It is central to one’s identity as a Christian It is essential to fulfilling one’s destiny & purpose before God - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Transcript of Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Page 1: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Understanding & Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Utilizing our Spiritual

GiftsGiftsPMBC Summer Session Bible PMBC Summer Session Bible

StudyStudyInstructor: Dr. Guy A. Instructor: Dr. Guy A.

Williams, Sr.Williams, Sr.

Page 2: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Importance of The Importance of Spiritual GiftsSpiritual Gifts

• It is central to one’s identity as a It is central to one’s identity as a ChristianChristian

• It is essential to fulfilling one’s destiny & It is essential to fulfilling one’s destiny & purpose before Godpurpose before God

• Their proper use is paramount to the Their proper use is paramount to the will of God (individual & corporate)will of God (individual & corporate)

• It is a key catalyst to Jesus’ Church’s It is a key catalyst to Jesus’ Church’s growth, development & maturationgrowth, development & maturation

• It is an effective draw for the unsavedIt is an effective draw for the unsaved

Page 3: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Importance of The Importance of Spiritual GiftsSpiritual Gifts

• Its appropriate use is extremely Its appropriate use is extremely “profitable”“profitable” (1 Tim. 3:17) (1 Tim. 3:17)

• It clearly depicts the Christian’s It clearly depicts the Christian’s presentation of themselves to God as presentation of themselves to God as a a “living sacrifice”“living sacrifice” (Rom. 12:1-2) (Rom. 12:1-2)

• It helps the believer see themselves in It helps the believer see themselves in proper perspective before God (12:3)proper perspective before God (12:3)– Not Not “too highly”“too highly”– According to one’s According to one’s “measure of faith”“measure of faith”

Page 4: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

New Blessings from a New New Blessings from a New Covenant RelationshipCovenant Relationship

• Key New Testament PassagesKey New Testament Passages– Romans 12:6-8Romans 12:6-8– 1 Corinthians 12-141 Corinthians 12-14– Ephesians 4:11Ephesians 4:11– 1 Peter 4:10-111 Peter 4:10-11

• Key WordsKey Words– ““Spiritual things” (Spiritual things” (pneumatikonpneumatikon) – 1 Cor. 12:1) – 1 Cor. 12:1– ““Gifts” (Gifts” (charismacharisma) – Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:4, 9, ) – Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:4, 9,

28, 30-31; 1 Pet. 4:1028, 30-31; 1 Pet. 4:10– ““Ministries” (Ministries” (diakoniadiakonia) – Rom. 12:7) – Rom. 12:7

Page 5: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

What is a Spiritual GiftWhat is a Spiritual Gift• ““Extraordinary powers, distinguishing Extraordinary powers, distinguishing

certain Christians and enabling them to certain Christians and enabling them to serve the church of Christ, the reception serve the church of Christ, the reception of which is due to the power of divine of which is due to the power of divine grace operating in their souls by the Holy grace operating in their souls by the Holy Spirit.” (J.H. Thayer)Spirit.” (J.H. Thayer)

• ““An ability given to an individual An ability given to an individual supernaturally by God through the Holy supernaturally by God through the Holy Spirit so that the recipient may utilize Spirit so that the recipient may utilize that ability to minister to the needs of the that ability to minister to the needs of the church, the body of Christ.” (T.A. Edgar)church, the body of Christ.” (T.A. Edgar)

Page 6: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

What is a Spiritual Gift?What is a Spiritual Gift?• ““A divinely ordained spiritual ability A divinely ordained spiritual ability

through which Christ enables His through which Christ enables His church to execute its task on earth.”church to execute its task on earth.”

• ““Extraordinary endowments bestowed Extraordinary endowments bestowed by the Holy Spirit sovereignty and by the Holy Spirit sovereignty and undeservedly on believers as undeservedly on believers as instruments for Christian service and instruments for Christian service and church edification.”church edification.”

• ““A divinely bestowed ability given to A divinely bestowed ability given to every believer in Jesus Christ in order every believer in Jesus Christ in order to serve the church.” (T. Evans)to serve the church.” (T. Evans)

Page 7: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Who are the Recipients of Who are the Recipients of Spiritual Gifts?Spiritual Gifts?

• The born-again believer in Jesus The born-again believer in Jesus Christ, at the point of salvationChrist, at the point of salvation– 1 Corinthians 12:7, 111 Corinthians 12:7, 11– Ephesians 4:16Ephesians 4:16– 1 Peter 4:101 Peter 4:10

Page 8: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

What is/are the Purpose of What is/are the Purpose of Spiritual Gifts?Spiritual Gifts?

• A few examples:A few examples:– Mk. 16:17-20 – accompanying the preaching Mk. 16:17-20 – accompanying the preaching

of the Gospelof the Gospel– Rom. 12:6-8 – ministries to be exercisedRom. 12:6-8 – ministries to be exercised– 1 Cor. 14:22 – sign to unbelievers1 Cor. 14:22 – sign to unbelievers

• The Answer = The Answer = “FOR THE COMMON “FOR THE COMMON GOODGOOD . . . of all in the church” (1 Cor. . . . of all in the church” (1 Cor. 12:7)12:7)– All three members of the Holy Trinity are All three members of the Holy Trinity are

united on the divine purpose of the gifts (1 united on the divine purpose of the gifts (1 Cor. 12:4-6)Cor. 12:4-6)

Page 9: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

What is/are the Purpose of What is/are the Purpose of Spiritual Gifts?Spiritual Gifts?

• The Answer = The Answer = “FOR THE “FOR THE COMMON GOODCOMMON GOOD . . . of all in the . . . of all in the church” (1 Cor. 12:7)church” (1 Cor. 12:7)– To minister to the church to To minister to the church to “build”“build”

spiritual maturity (Eph. 4:11-12)spiritual maturity (Eph. 4:11-12)– To To “serve one another . . . as good “serve one another . . . as good

stewards”stewards” (1 Pet. 4:10) (1 Pet. 4:10)

Page 10: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

What is/are the Purpose of What is/are the Purpose of Spiritual Gifts?Spiritual Gifts?

• Critical Priority:Critical Priority:– ““. . . let all things be done for . . . let all things be done for

edification edification (to build up) – 1 Cor. 14:26(to build up) – 1 Cor. 14:26– ““love”love” must be the principle motive and must be the principle motive and

guiding means (1 Cor. 13:1-13)guiding means (1 Cor. 13:1-13)• Never SelfNever Self

– In no instance does the NT ever state that In no instance does the NT ever state that gifts were to be used for personal benefitgifts were to be used for personal benefit• (e.g., “teaching” or “helps” = others oriented)(e.g., “teaching” or “helps” = others oriented)

Page 11: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Giver of Spiritual The Giver of Spiritual GiftsGifts

• Fundamental premise:Fundamental premise:– All spiritual gifts are sovereignly given All spiritual gifts are sovereignly given

by God . . . according to His Will . . . by God . . . according to His Will . . . according to His assessment of the according to His assessment of the recipient’s capacity and potential (1 recipient’s capacity and potential (1 Cor. 12:11; Rom. 12:3-8; cf. Matt. Cor. 12:11; Rom. 12:3-8; cf. Matt. 25:14-30)25:14-30)

Page 12: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Does Spiritual Giftedness = Does Spiritual Giftedness = Spiritual MaturitySpiritual Maturity

• NO!NO!– As seen in the Corinthian context, though they As seen in the Corinthian context, though they

had all the gifts (1:7), they were spiritually had all the gifts (1:7), they were spiritually immature and carnal (3:1-3)immature and carnal (3:1-3)

– In almost every chapter, the apostle Paul had In almost every chapter, the apostle Paul had to deal with some manifestation of their to deal with some manifestation of their spiritual infantilismspiritual infantilism

• Yet . . .Yet . . .– A spiritually mature believer is one who is A spiritually mature believer is one who is

being filled, led, guided, in fellowship with, being filled, led, guided, in fellowship with, empowered by, and flowing in their spiritual empowered by, and flowing in their spiritual giftednessgiftedness

Page 13: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

OT Examples NT OT Examples NT ElevationElevation

• In the OT the Holy Spirit is associated with In the OT the Holy Spirit is associated with all sorts of special endowments He all sorts of special endowments He provides and there is no clear distinction provides and there is no clear distinction made between “secular” and “sacred” giftsmade between “secular” and “sacred” gifts– Craftsman skilled in wood & metal (Exod. Craftsman skilled in wood & metal (Exod.

31`:3, 6)31`:3, 6)– Sampson’s unusual strength (Judg. 14:6)Sampson’s unusual strength (Judg. 14:6)– Political wisdom to Othniel (Judg. 3:10) and Political wisdom to Othniel (Judg. 3:10) and

Daniel (Dan. 1:6-11, 17)Daniel (Dan. 1:6-11, 17)– Spiritual wisdom to Joseph for leadership & Spiritual wisdom to Joseph for leadership &

management over Egypt (Gen. 41:38)management over Egypt (Gen. 41:38)

Page 14: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

OT Examples NT OT Examples NT ElevationElevation

• But in the NT, the Holy Spirit’s gifts But in the NT, the Holy Spirit’s gifts are referred to as are referred to as “spiritual”“spiritual” (1 Cor. (1 Cor. 12:1; 14:1, 12)12:1; 14:1, 12)

• As the gifts are from the same Holy As the gifts are from the same Holy Spirit, the key difference is “context” Spirit, the key difference is “context” and “function” of the giftsand “function” of the gifts– Context = the Church, the body of ChristContext = the Church, the body of Christ– Function/goal = spiritual maturity of the Function/goal = spiritual maturity of the

ChurchChurch

Page 15: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

OT Examples NT OT Examples NT ExtensionExtension

• Common problem in misunderstanding the Common problem in misunderstanding the difference:difference:– Failure to call all believers to use every talent Failure to call all believers to use every talent

and skill with which they’ve been endowed to and skill with which they’ve been endowed to carry out the revealed purposes of God in the carry out the revealed purposes of God in the worldworld• Downgrading these abilities and uplift the “spiritual” Downgrading these abilities and uplift the “spiritual”

gifts from the NT as God’s only ratified blessingsgifts from the NT as God’s only ratified blessings– Overemphasis on the Overemphasis on the naturenature of the listed gifts of the listed gifts

that we have misunderstood ministrythat we have misunderstood ministry• Individual vs. coordinated expression of Spirit’s Individual vs. coordinated expression of Spirit’s

activityactivity

Page 16: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Distinction between The Distinction between Gifts and TalentsGifts and Talents

• Principally we must remember James’ Principally we must remember James’ affirmation (Ja. 1:17)affirmation (Ja. 1:17)

• A A naturalnatural talenttalent is: is:– Given from God at one’s natural birth Given from God at one’s natural birth

(saved & unsaved)(saved & unsaved)– Is a special ability to perform a task in a Is a special ability to perform a task in a

clearly clearly above averageabove average manner for one’s manner for one’s personal benefit and potentially for the personal benefit and potentially for the benefit of othersbenefit of others

– It can be used to advance God’s cause and It can be used to advance God’s cause and bring God glorybring God glory

Page 17: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Distinction between The Distinction between Gifts and TalentsGifts and Talents

• Principally we must remember James’ Principally we must remember James’ affirmation (Ja. 1:17)affirmation (Ja. 1:17)

• A A spiritualspiritual giftgift is: is:– A special ability (freely and graciously given) at A special ability (freely and graciously given) at

one’s spiritual birth (by the Holy Spirit) to one’s spiritual birth (by the Holy Spirit) to perform tasks in a manner that is clearly perform tasks in a manner that is clearly supernaturalsupernatural

– It is specifically designed by God to bring Him It is specifically designed by God to bring Him glory and to build-up His Church (the body of glory and to build-up His Church (the body of Christ) and empower and advance His cause on Christ) and empower and advance His cause on the earththe earth

Page 18: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Diversity of GiftsThe Diversity of Gifts• God gives differing gifts to God gives differing gifts to

ChristiansChristians– Rom. 12:4-6Rom. 12:4-6– 1 Cor. 12:4, 8, 101 Cor. 12:4, 8, 10

• Moreover, all Christians Moreover, all Christians cannotcannot have have the same gift (1 Cor. 12:17-22)the same gift (1 Cor. 12:17-22)

• Every gift God gives to the body is Every gift God gives to the body is essential and valuableessential and valuable

Page 19: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Difference in ValueThe Difference in Value• While every gift is indeed essential and While every gift is indeed essential and

valuable to God, not all gifts have the valuable to God, not all gifts have the same valuesame value– God’s order is reflected in gift of leadership God’s order is reflected in gift of leadership

to the church (1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:17-8, to the church (1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:17-8, 11-12)11-12)

• While every gift is indeed essential and While every gift is indeed essential and valuable to God, some gifts are more valuable to God, some gifts are more essential than othersessential than others– The gift of The gift of prophecyprophecy vs. the gift of vs. the gift of tonguestongues

(1 Cor. 14:5, 19)(1 Cor. 14:5, 19)

Page 20: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

God’s Order of God’s God’s Order of God’s GiftsGifts

• Foundational principles: Foundational principles: – ““God is not the Author of confusion, but of God is not the Author of confusion, but of

peace”peace” (1 Cor. 14:33) (1 Cor. 14:33)– When it comes to the use and operation of When it comes to the use and operation of

gifts . . . gifts . . . ““let all things be done decently and in let all things be done decently and in order”order” (1 Cor. 14:40 NKJV) (1 Cor. 14:40 NKJV)

• While persons may be supernaturally While persons may be supernaturally “filled with the Spirit”“filled with the Spirit” they are NOT they are NOT truly truly “in the Spirit”“in the Spirit” if they are “out of if they are “out of control” and operating “out of order” (1 control” and operating “out of order” (1 Cor. 14:26-35)Cor. 14:26-35)

Page 21: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The First Edifying Gift: The First Edifying Gift: ApostleApostle

• Aside from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Aside from the Lord Jesus Christ, the most important person in the NT church most important person in the NT church was the was the apostleapostle

• ““Apostle” (Apostle” (ApostolosApostolos) = “a sent one”) = “a sent one”• In the LXX (Septuagint – the Greek In the LXX (Septuagint – the Greek

translation of the OT) the Heb. Word translation of the OT) the Heb. Word “shalach”“shalach” = “send” is used (1 Kgs. 14:6) = “send” is used (1 Kgs. 14:6)– The idea here is one who is “sent” as a The idea here is one who is “sent” as a

“representative” – thus, “sent one”“representative” – thus, “sent one”

Page 22: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in the The Apostle in the GospelsGospels

• The Twelve were “apostles” of the The Twelve were “apostles” of the Lord Lord – (Matt. 10:2; Lk. 6:13; 9:10; 17:5)(Matt. 10:2; Lk. 6:13; 9:10; 17:5)

Page 23: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in ActsThe Apostle in Acts• The Twelve were “the” apostles The Twelve were “the” apostles

(Acts 1-2)(Acts 1-2)– The number remained the same even in The number remained the same even in

the selection of Matthias (Acts 1:21-26)the selection of Matthias (Acts 1:21-26)• Critical Qualification: An apostle Critical Qualification: An apostle

was a witness of the resurrection of was a witness of the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:22; cf. 4:33)Jesus Christ (Acts 1:22; cf. 4:33)– Proof (Acts 1:1-14; 5:17-32; 10:41-42)Proof (Acts 1:1-14; 5:17-32; 10:41-42)

Page 24: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in ActsThe Apostle in Acts• Key Ministries of the Apostles:Key Ministries of the Apostles:

– Taught (2:42)Taught (2:42)– Performed miracles (5:12)Performed miracles (5:12)– Held the authority of the church, as Jesus’ Held the authority of the church, as Jesus’

representatives (2:42; 4:35-37; 5:1-11; 6:2-6; 9:27)representatives (2:42; 4:35-37; 5:1-11; 6:2-6; 9:27)• Interesting: Except for Barnabas & Paul, the Interesting: Except for Barnabas & Paul, the

apostles were not characterized by missionary apostles were not characterized by missionary activityactivity– They actually remained at the home-base in They actually remained at the home-base in

Jerusalem while others were sent forth (Acts 5:2, Jerusalem while others were sent forth (Acts 5:2, 18; 6:2-6; 8:1; 9:27; 15:2; Gal. 1:17-2:10) 18; 6:2-6; 8:1; 9:27; 15:2; Gal. 1:17-2:10)

Page 25: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in the The Apostle in the EpistlesEpistles

• The Epistles use the term The Epistles use the term apostleapostle to refer to refer to any of the Twelve and Paulto any of the Twelve and Paul

• The Epistles indicate that an The Epistles indicate that an apostleapostle was a was a direct witness of the resurrection of Jesusdirect witness of the resurrection of Jesus– (1 Cor. 9:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:5-8) (1 Cor. 9:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:5-8) – One must have had to actually see Jesus in one One must have had to actually see Jesus in one

of His resurrection appearancesof His resurrection appearances• The Epistles indicate that an The Epistles indicate that an apostleapostle was was

able to perform miraclesable to perform miracles– (2 Cor. 12:11-12)(2 Cor. 12:11-12)

Page 26: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in the The Apostle in the EpistlesEpistles

• The Epistles indicate that the gift of The Epistles indicate that the gift of apostleapostle was given only at the was given only at the beginning of the churchbeginning of the church– (Eph. 2:20)(Eph. 2:20)– The context of Ephesians refers to the The context of Ephesians refers to the

universal church = the whole body of universal church = the whole body of ChristChrist

– Note: so called “present day” apostles (in Note: so called “present day” apostles (in the strict sense) CANNOT be foundational the strict sense) CANNOT be foundational for the universal churchfor the universal church

Page 27: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Apostle in the The Apostle in the EpistlesEpistles

• The Epistles indicate that an The Epistles indicate that an apostleapostle received very special and unique received very special and unique responsibilities and revelationresponsibilities and revelation– Over local assemblies (1 Cor. 4:19-21; Over local assemblies (1 Cor. 4:19-21;

5: 3-4; 2 Cor. 13:2-3, 10)5: 3-4; 2 Cor. 13:2-3, 10)– They were specifically called and/or They were specifically called and/or

appointed by the Lord (Rom. 1:5; Gal. 1-appointed by the Lord (Rom. 1:5; Gal. 1-2; 1 Tim. 2:7; cf. Eph. 3:5 – also 2; 1 Tim. 2:7; cf. Eph. 3:5 – also prophets; Paul – 2 Cor. 12:1-17)prophets; Paul – 2 Cor. 12:1-17)

Page 28: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Uniqueness of the The Uniqueness of the ApostleApostle

• Like the OT prophets they performed mighty Like the OT prophets they performed mighty miraclesmiracles

• They shall sit on the 12 thrones judging the 12 They shall sit on the 12 thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel (Matt. 19:28)tribes of Israel (Matt. 19:28)

• Their names will be on the foundation of the Their names will be on the foundation of the heavenly city (Rev. 21:14)heavenly city (Rev. 21:14)

• They have authority even over NT prophets (1 They have authority even over NT prophets (1 Cor. 12:28; 14:37)Cor. 12:28; 14:37)

• Church history denotes that not only were they Church history denotes that not only were they the originals; but that no other duplicates were the originals; but that no other duplicates were acceptedaccepted

Page 29: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Broader Use of the The Broader Use of the TermTerm

• Beyond the 12, there were others called Beyond the 12, there were others called apostlesapostles– Barnabas (Acts 14:4, 14Barnabas (Acts 14:4, 14– James (Gal. 1:19)James (Gal. 1:19)– Silas & Timothy (1 Thess. 1:1; 2:6)Silas & Timothy (1 Thess. 1:1; 2:6)– Matthias (Acts 2:14; 6:2; 9:27; 1 Cor. 15:5, Matthias (Acts 2:14; 6:2; 9:27; 1 Cor. 15:5,

7)7)– Paul (1 Cor. 15:5, 7; 1 Cor. 9:1-5)Paul (1 Cor. 15:5, 7; 1 Cor. 9:1-5)

• The last NT reference for their official The last NT reference for their official use was at the Council at Jerusalem (Acts use was at the Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:2-6, 23; 16:4)15:2-6, 23; 16:4)

Page 30: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Broader Use of the The Broader Use of the TermTerm

• The word The word “missionary”“missionary” conveys the conveys the broader meaning today w/the broader meaning today w/the following qualifications:following qualifications:– Being sentBeing sent

• ““missionary”missionary” = (Latin) “to send” = (Latin) “to send”• ““apostle”apostle” = (Greek) “to send” = (Greek) “to send”

– Transcultural MinistryTranscultural Ministry– Church-Planting Ministry (Rom. 15:20; Church-Planting Ministry (Rom. 15:20;

1 Cor. 3:10)1 Cor. 3:10)

Page 31: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The word The word “prophecy”“prophecy” conveys the idea of: conveys the idea of:• ““fore-telling”fore-telling” = “to tell those things before” = “to tell those things before”• ““forth-telling”forth-telling” = “to tell those things already revealed” = “to tell those things already revealed”

• The word The word “prophesy”“prophesy” means “to expound or means “to expound or preach under the influence of the Holy Spiritpreach under the influence of the Holy Spirit

• The The “prophet”“prophet” is one who speaks for God and is one who speaks for God and interprets His will to the people.interprets His will to the people.– (Heb. (Heb. “nabi”“nabi”) = one who speaks by direct ) = one who speaks by direct

command (revelation) of God (cf. Deut. 18:20-22)command (revelation) of God (cf. Deut. 18:20-22)

Page 32: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The OT The OT prophet’sprophet’s message was message was primarily warning against judgment primarily warning against judgment (re: sin)(re: sin)

• The OT The OT prophetprophet expressed the Voice expressed the Voice of God, address contemporary issues of God, address contemporary issues & future events& future events

• The biblical The biblical prophetprophet was viewed as a was viewed as a national leader & reformernational leader & reformer

Page 33: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The word The word “prophecy”“prophecy” was used in the was used in the culture of the day for the oracular gift & culture of the day for the oracular gift & sometimes the prophet (cf. 2 Chron. sometimes the prophet (cf. 2 Chron. 32:32; 15:8; Ezra 5:1)32:32; 15:8; Ezra 5:1)

• The word The word “prophesy”“prophesy” occurs 28x in the occurs 28x in the NTNT– Most instances referring to the OT prophetsMost instances referring to the OT prophets

• The prophetic ministry is seen as The prophetic ministry is seen as supernatural (cf. Matt. 7:22-23; Matt. supernatural (cf. Matt. 7:22-23; Matt. 26:67-68 Mk. 14:65)26:67-68 Mk. 14:65)

Page 34: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The “Prophet” in the Gospels:The “Prophet” in the Gospels:– Point out the similarity in the OT & NT Point out the similarity in the OT & NT

usages of the term (Lk. 7:39; Jn. 4:19; 6:14; usages of the term (Lk. 7:39; Jn. 4:19; 6:14; 7:40)7:40)

• The “Prophet” in the book of Acts:The “Prophet” in the book of Acts:– Some refer to NT prophets, but most OT Some refer to NT prophets, but most OT

prophets (2:30-31; 3:18-25; 7:52; 10:43; prophets (2:30-31; 3:18-25; 7:52; 10:43; 11:27-28; 13:1; 15:32; 21:10; 26:22-23)11:27-28; 13:1; 15:32; 21:10; 26:22-23)

– Their ministry primarily involved Their ministry primarily involved foretellingforetelling– Specific examples: Acts 11:27-28 & 21:10 – Specific examples: Acts 11:27-28 & 21:10 –

Agabus; 15:32 – Judas & SilasAgabus; 15:32 – Judas & Silas

Page 35: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The “Prophet” in Romans:The “Prophet” in Romans:– Each of the usages refer to OT prophetsEach of the usages refer to OT prophets

• The “Prophet” according to Paul in The “Prophet” according to Paul in other Epistles:other Epistles:– 1 Cor. 12:28-29; 14:29-321 Cor. 12:28-29; 14:29-32– Eph. 2:20; 3:5; 4:1Eph. 2:20; 3:5; 4:1– Titus 1:12Titus 1:12– 1 Pet. 1:101 Pet. 1:10

Page 36: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• The “Prophet” in Revelations:The “Prophet” in Revelations:– They will be present during the end of They will be present during the end of

the great tribulation and are tied to the great tribulation and are tied to foretellingforetelling (22:6; cf. 22:9) (22:6; cf. 22:9)

Page 37: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Second Edifying Gift: The Second Edifying Gift: ProphecyProphecy

• This gift is clearly differentiated from This gift is clearly differentiated from edification or exhortation (Acts 2:17-18; edification or exhortation (Acts 2:17-18; 19:6; 21:9; 1 Cor. 11:4-5; 13:9; 14:1-39)19:6; 21:9; 1 Cor. 11:4-5; 13:9; 14:1-39)

• Three important essentials of a prophet:Three important essentials of a prophet:– Must receive his/her message from God in Must receive his/her message from God in

the form of special revelationthe form of special revelation– Must have divine guidance in the Must have divine guidance in the

declaration of the prophetic message tied to declaration of the prophetic message tied to the Word of Godthe Word of God

– The message must be correct & w/out errorThe message must be correct & w/out error

Page 38: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Summary of the Gift of Summary of the Gift of ProphecyProphecy

• Not all have the giftNot all have the gift• They are recipients of divine revelationThey are recipients of divine revelation• Their ministry particularly involved Their ministry particularly involved

foretellingforetelling or prediction – very specific; not or prediction – very specific; not vague & generalvague & general

• When they spoke via revelation, their When they spoke via revelation, their ministry exhorts & causes hearers to learnministry exhorts & causes hearers to learn

• They were given at the inception of the They were given at the inception of the ChurchChurch

• Their ministry was both in the local church Their ministry was both in the local church & itinerant& itinerant

Page 39: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

Summary of the Gift of Summary of the Gift of ProphecyProphecy

• The gift of prophet is a high priority The gift of prophet is a high priority gift, often linked with that of apostlegift, often linked with that of apostle

• This gift (in its strictest sense) is not This gift (in its strictest sense) is not operational in the church todayoperational in the church today– Their predictions must:Their predictions must:

• Come from special revelationCome from special revelation• Be specificBe specific• Be verifiableBe verifiable

Page 40: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of EvangelismThe Gift of Evangelism• The gift of evangelism is taken from the word The gift of evangelism is taken from the word

evangelize (evangelize (euanggellioneuanggellion) = to proclaim God’s ) = to proclaim God’s message of salvation = the gospel or good message of salvation = the gospel or good newsnews

• The The evangelistevangelist is the one called of God to is the one called of God to proclaim His message of salvationproclaim His message of salvation

• The word applies to both an office & a The word applies to both an office & a ministry ministry – Phillip (Acts 21:8)Phillip (Acts 21:8)– The early believers after persecution (Acts 8:4, The early believers after persecution (Acts 8:4,

40)40)

Page 41: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of EvangelismThe Gift of Evangelism• The The evangelistevangelist did not have the authority did not have the authority

of an apostle, nor the gift of prophecy, of an apostle, nor the gift of prophecy, nor the responsibility of pastoral nor the responsibility of pastoral supervision over a portion of the flocksupervision over a portion of the flock

• The The evangelistevangelist were itinerant preachers, were itinerant preachers, having it as their special function to having it as their special function to carry the gospel to places where it was carry the gospel to places where it was previously unknownpreviously unknown

• The writers of the four Gospels are The writers of the four Gospels are known as the Evangelistsknown as the Evangelists

Page 42: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of EvangelismThe Gift of Evangelism• The The evangelist’sevangelist’s effectiveness was effectiveness was

measured (in part) by those who got measured (in part) by those who got saved as a result of the proclamation saved as a result of the proclamation (Acts 2:37; 14:1)(Acts 2:37; 14:1)– At times b/c of a hard-heart persons simply At times b/c of a hard-heart persons simply

rejected the message (Acts 19:9; 24:25)rejected the message (Acts 19:9; 24:25)• While there are those with this spiritual While there are those with this spiritual

gift, all Christians are responsible for gift, all Christians are responsible for being a faithful witness of Jesus’ gospel being a faithful witness of Jesus’ gospel (Acts 1:8; cf. Matt. 28:19-20)(Acts 1:8; cf. Matt. 28:19-20)

Page 43: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The word The word shepherdshepherd ( (poimenpoimen) comes from ) comes from

the root meaning “to protect”the root meaning “to protect”• The word has an OT origin – commonly The word has an OT origin – commonly

referencing adverse behavior of these referencing adverse behavior of these chosen by God (Jer. 2:8; 3:15; 10:21; chosen by God (Jer. 2:8; 3:15; 10:21; 12:10; 23:1-4)12:10; 23:1-4)– This gives the reverse of God’s expectations This gives the reverse of God’s expectations

of themof them• The word The word shepherdshepherd appears only 1x in appears only 1x in

the NT (Eph. 4:11)the NT (Eph. 4:11)– Referring to the office & the giftReferring to the office & the gift

Page 44: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The word The word shepherdshepherd ( (poimenpoimen) referring to ) referring to

an office is used interchangeably with:an office is used interchangeably with:– ““bishop” bishop” or or “overseer”“overseer” ( (episcoposepiscopos) – ) –

referring to one who functions as an referring to one who functions as an overseer of ministries or ministers (cf. 1 Tim. overseer of ministries or ministers (cf. 1 Tim. 3:1)3:1)

– ““elder”elder” ( (presbuterospresbuteros) – referring to an older ) – referring to an older mature male who with authority serves in a mature male who with authority serves in a position of authority (Num. 22:7; Exod. 3:16; position of authority (Num. 22:7; Exod. 3:16; 24:1; Num. 11:16-17)24:1; Num. 11:16-17)

Page 45: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The word The word shepherdshepherd ( (poimenpoimen) referring to ) referring to

an office is used interchangeably with:an office is used interchangeably with:– ““elder”elder” is the keystone of the social and is the keystone of the social and

political fabric wherever the patriarchal political fabric wherever the patriarchal system existssystem exists

– At the present day this is the case among the At the present day this is the case among the Arabs, where the sheik (i.e., "the old man") is Arabs, where the sheik (i.e., "the old man") is the highest authority in the tribe the highest authority in the tribe

– The body of the "elders" of Israel were the The body of the "elders" of Israel were the representatives of the people from the very representatives of the people from the very first, and were recognized as such by Mosesfirst, and were recognized as such by Moses

Page 46: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The word The word shepherdshepherd ( (poimenpoimen) referring to ) referring to

an office is used interchangeably with:an office is used interchangeably with:– All down through the history of the Jews we All down through the history of the Jews we

find mention made of the elders as find mention made of the elders as exercising authority among the peopleexercising authority among the people

– They appear as:They appear as:• Governors (Deut. 31:28) and Local magistrates Governors (Deut. 31:28) and Local magistrates

(Deut 16:18)(Deut 16:18)• Administering justice (Deut. 19:12)Administering justice (Deut. 19:12)• They were men of extensive influence (1Sam. They were men of extensive influence (1Sam.

30:26-31)30:26-31)

Page 47: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• In New Testament times they also appear taking In New Testament times they also appear taking

an active part in public affairs Mt 16:21 21:23 an active part in public affairs Mt 16:21 21:23 26:59 26:59

• The Jewish eldership was transferred from the The Jewish eldership was transferred from the old dispensation to the newold dispensation to the new

• The creation of the office of elder is nowhere The creation of the office of elder is nowhere recorded in the NT (as in the case of deacons recorded in the NT (as in the case of deacons and apostles) – which were created to meet new and apostles) – which were created to meet new and special emergenciesand special emergencies– Elders were transmitted from OT times and their Elders were transmitted from OT times and their

office was the only permanent essential office of the office was the only permanent essential office of the churchchurch

Page 48: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The The "elders""elders" of the NT church were the of the NT church were the

"pastors""pastors" (Eph 4:11), serving as the (Eph 4:11), serving as the "leaders" and "rulers" of the flock (Heb "leaders" and "rulers" of the flock (Heb 13:7; 1Th 5:12)13:7; 1Th 5:12)

• Everywhere in the NT Everywhere in the NT bishopbishop and and presbyterpresbyter are titles given to one and the are titles given to one and the same officer of the Christian churchsame officer of the Christian church– He who is called He who is called presbyterpresbyter or or elderelder on on

account of his age or gravity is also called account of his age or gravity is also called bishopbishop or or overseeroverseer with reference to the duty with reference to the duty that lay upon him (Ti 1:5-7; Acts 20:17-28; that lay upon him (Ti 1:5-7; Acts 20:17-28; Phil. 1:1)Phil. 1:1)

Page 49: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• Jesus is referred to as:Jesus is referred to as:

– The The Good ShepherdGood Shepherd (Jn. 10:11, 14; Heb. 13:20) (Jn. 10:11, 14; Heb. 13:20)– The The Chief ShepherdChief Shepherd (1 Pet. 2:25; 5:4) (1 Pet. 2:25; 5:4)

• The fundamental ministry of The fundamental ministry of shepherdingshepherding is:is:– To guide (cf. Psa. 23)To guide (cf. Psa. 23)

• At times discipline (2 Tim. 4:2b)At times discipline (2 Tim. 4:2b)– To graze (i.e., feed) the sheep (Jer. 3:15; Isa. To graze (i.e., feed) the sheep (Jer. 3:15; Isa.

40:11; cf. Jn. 21:16; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2)40:11; cf. Jn. 21:16; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2)– To guard (1 Sam. 17:34-37; Acts 20:28-31)To guard (1 Sam. 17:34-37; Acts 20:28-31)

Page 50: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ShepherdingThe Gift of Shepherding• The gift of The gift of shepherdingshepherding is to is to

believers other those who hold the believers other those who hold the officeoffice– Church leaders (e.g., staff, counselor, Church leaders (e.g., staff, counselor,

minister, deacon, deaconess, Sunday minister, deacon, deaconess, Sunday School or Bible Study teacher) who School or Bible Study teacher) who mentormentor• Older women (cf. Titus 2:3-5)Older women (cf. Titus 2:3-5)

– Seminary or Bible College professorsSeminary or Bible College professors

Page 51: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• What proceeds the operation of the gift of What proceeds the operation of the gift of

teachingteaching is the supernatural Teacher of is the supernatural Teacher of TeachersTeachers– Who teaches the teacherWho teaches the teacher

• Before Moses ever taught, God taught Him (Exod. Before Moses ever taught, God taught Him (Exod. 4:12, 15)4:12, 15)

• Before the tribal & family leaders could teach, God Before the tribal & family leaders could teach, God first taught them (Deut. 4:1) first taught them (Deut. 4:1)

• God’s expectation is for the continuation of this God’s expectation is for the continuation of this critical ministry to the next generations (Deut. 4:9,-critical ministry to the next generations (Deut. 4:9,-10; 6:1, 7)10; 6:1, 7)

• Critical after the return from captivity (Ez. 7:10, 25)Critical after the return from captivity (Ez. 7:10, 25)

Page 52: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• The gift of The gift of teachingteaching is the supernatural is the supernatural

ability to clearly explain the intended ability to clearly explain the intended meaning of the truth of God’s Wordmeaning of the truth of God’s Word– Remember, this is a spiritual gift. Thus, Remember, this is a spiritual gift. Thus,

just b/c a person has a just b/c a person has a talenttalent to teach does to teach does not mean they have the spiritual gift of not mean they have the spiritual gift of teachingteaching

– The possession of the gift does not mean The possession of the gift does not mean the gift does not need to be honed and the gift does not need to be honed and perfected (Ecc. 10:10)perfected (Ecc. 10:10)

Page 53: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• TeachingTeaching was dominant in the ministry of the was dominant in the ministry of the

Lord Jesus (Matt. 4:23; 7:28; 9:35; 21:23, 55)Lord Jesus (Matt. 4:23; 7:28; 9:35; 21:23, 55)• Jesus was a profound Teacher (Lk. 4:31-32)Jesus was a profound Teacher (Lk. 4:31-32)• This ministry of Jesus set the stage for other This ministry of Jesus set the stage for other

miraculous ministry (cf. Lk. 5:17-20; 13:10-13)miraculous ministry (cf. Lk. 5:17-20; 13:10-13)• This ministry was the primary methodology He This ministry was the primary methodology He

established in the process of established in the process of “making “making disciples”disciples” for the birth & development of His for the birth & development of His Church (Matt. 28:20)Church (Matt. 28:20)

• There was a clear connection with the gift of There was a clear connection with the gift of teachingteaching and that of and that of prophecyprophecy (Acts 5:42; (Acts 5:42; 31:1; 15:35; 28:30-31)31:1; 15:35; 28:30-31)

Page 54: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• The ministry of The ministry of teachingteaching was central was central

to the qualifications of those who to the qualifications of those who serve as pastors/overseers of God’s serve as pastors/overseers of God’s Church (1 Tim. 3:2; 2 Tim. 2:24-25)Church (1 Tim. 3:2; 2 Tim. 2:24-25)

• It is through the ministry of It is through the ministry of teachingteaching that enables the believer to that enables the believer to walkwalk as as a Christian and have proper a Christian and have proper fellowship with God and others fellowship with God and others (Rom. 12:2)(Rom. 12:2)

Page 55: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• The ministry of The ministry of teachingteaching was critical in was critical in

equipping faithful ministers/servants of equipping faithful ministers/servants of God (Acts 18:24-28; cf. 1 Cor. 4:6)God (Acts 18:24-28; cf. 1 Cor. 4:6)

• This gifted ministry is essential for the This gifted ministry is essential for the whole bodywhole body– Those who minister through song (Col. 3:16)Those who minister through song (Col. 3:16)– Older women to younger women (Titus 2:3)Older women to younger women (Titus 2:3)– Limitation of authority (1 Tim. 2:12)Limitation of authority (1 Tim. 2:12)

Page 56: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of TeachingThe Gift of Teaching• The ministry of The ministry of teachingteaching was expected was expected

to be a primary ministry for the church – to be a primary ministry for the church – as a measure of its maturity (Heb. 5:12)as a measure of its maturity (Heb. 5:12)

• Those who participate in the ministry of Those who participate in the ministry of teachingteaching are particularly accountable to are particularly accountable to God (Ja. 3:1)God (Ja. 3:1)

• If one has this gift, they should be If one has this gift, they should be completely dedicated to completely dedicated to flowflow effectively effectively in it (Rom. 12:7)in it (Rom. 12:7)

Page 57: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ExhortationThe Gift of Exhortation• The word The word exhortexhort in its noun form is the same in its noun form is the same

word used for the Holy Spirit (word used for the Holy Spirit (Paraclete – Paraclete – Jn. Jn. 4:16) = the 4:16) = the one called alongside to helpone called alongside to help

• It is also the same word of Jesus (It is also the same word of Jesus (AdvocateAdvocate – – 1 Jn. 2:1)1 Jn. 2:1)

• The word The word exhortexhort ( (parakaleoparakaleo) means “to call ) means “to call to” or “to call for” or “to exhort” or “to to” or “to call for” or “to exhort” or “to encourage”encourage”– The word conveys the idea of comforting, The word conveys the idea of comforting,

consoling, appealing, and counselingconsoling, appealing, and counseling

Page 58: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ExhortationThe Gift of Exhortation• The gift of The gift of exhortationexhortation then is the then is the

supernatural ability of the Holy supernatural ability of the Holy Spirit to “call to, encourage, appeal Spirit to “call to, encourage, appeal to, and comfort:to, and comfort:– Someone who needs challenging, Someone who needs challenging,

lifting, strengthening, consoling, and lifting, strengthening, consoling, and comfortingcomforting

Page 59: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ExhortationThe Gift of Exhortation• NT characters with the gift of NT characters with the gift of exhortationexhortation

were:were:– PaulPaul

• Shown to the believers in the churches at Lystra, Shown to the believers in the churches at Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch (Acts 14:21-22)Iconium, and Antioch (Acts 14:21-22)

• Shown to those who were persecuted for the faith Shown to those who were persecuted for the faith (Acts 16:40)(Acts 16:40)

• Shown to the Ephesian Christians (Acts 20:1, 17-Shown to the Ephesian Christians (Acts 20:1, 17-35)35)

– Judas (the other) and SilasJudas (the other) and Silas• Prophets of God who also flowed in this gift (Acts Prophets of God who also flowed in this gift (Acts

15:31-32)15:31-32)

Page 60: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ExhortationThe Gift of Exhortation• NT characters with the gift of NT characters with the gift of

exhortationexhortation were: were:– PeterPeter

• In ministering to other elders (1 Pet. 5:1-2)In ministering to other elders (1 Pet. 5:1-2)• Certainly fulfilling his ministry assignment from Certainly fulfilling his ministry assignment from

the Lord (Lk. 22:32)the Lord (Lk. 22:32)• The operation of the gift of The operation of the gift of exhortationexhortation

was encouraged in the church in generalwas encouraged in the church in general– Among the Corinthians (10x in 5 verses – 2 Among the Corinthians (10x in 5 verses – 2

Cor. 1:3-7)Cor. 1:3-7)– Church member attendance (Heb. 10:25)Church member attendance (Heb. 10:25)

Page 61: Understanding & Utilizing our Spiritual Gifts

The Gift of ExhortationThe Gift of Exhortation• The most notable NT figure who’s The most notable NT figure who’s

dominant gift was dominant gift was exhortationexhortation was was the apostle Barnabas, the the apostle Barnabas, the son of son of encouragementencouragement (Acts 4:36) (Acts 4:36)