Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Writing to Rome, Paul mentions a number of Gifts of the Holy Spirit, often referred to simply as Spiritual Gifts:

  • Prophecy
  • Ministry
  • Teaching
  • Exhorting
  • Giving
  • Ruling
  • Showing Mercy

When writing his first letter to Corinth, Paul also mentions:

  • Word of Wisdom
  • Word of Knowledge
  • Faith
  • Gifts of Healing
  • Miracles
  • Prophecy
  • Discerning Spirits
  • Tongues
  • Interpretation of Tongues

...and more.

Since the two lists differ, it is clear that neither purports to be a complete list of possible gifts and it is a reasonable inference that both are example lists of gifts - there may or may not be others.

Paul makes certain categorical statements about these gifts that help us to understand their nature and, most importantly, their purpose:

  • Gifts are given by the Holy Spirit as He determines. Though we may desire certain gifts we cannot demand them - only ask.
  • Gifts are given for the benefit of all members of the church. They are not for show or for exhibition or to be used selfishly.

Within these constraints, therefore, we believe all the gifts mentioned in the Bible are available today, and possibly others beside. Although, as in the New Testament church, some may be more common than others.

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