The ABC's of Spiritual Gifts

 Read 1 Corinthians 12.

The next question raised by the Corinthians had to do with spiritual gifts.  The congregation was confused and divided, even believing that some gifts were valuable and others not so much.  Too often we may get sidetracked by the list of gifts in this chapter and miss the basic instructions.

What is the source of all spiritual gifts?
In verses 4-6, it is the same Holy Spirit, Lord and God.  The Trinity endues and empowers the believer with the spiritual ability to serve Him effectively.  This is not be confused with natural talent and personality.

How does a believer obtain a spiritual gift?
As a gift, it is received.  There is nothing a believer can do to earn it.  The Holy Spirit sovereignly "apportions to each one individually as he wills" (v.11).

Why are we given a spiritual gift?
Verse 7 is clear.  We are to use what God has given to us "for the common good."  A spiritual gift is not for personal benefit.  It is to be employed in the ministry to others.

In explaining what this looks like, the Apostle Paul compared the church to a human body with all its many parts.

1. There is great diversity. (vv.4-6)
Not only are there varieties of gifts but there are various ministries in which these gifts may be employed by individuals.  Not only are there many different ministries but the specific activities of those ministries will vary greatly.  Not every believer has the same gift.  Not every believer has the same calling to serve.  Not every believer uses their gift in the same way.  Expecting all believers to behave the same manner and use their gifts all alike is the opposite of what the Holy Spirit intends.

2. There is to be great unity. (vv.12-13, 25a)
Diversity does not mean divisiveness.  We are one in Christ on the same mission.  There is no room for boasting since we did nothing to receive what we have.  Humility before God and fellow believers recognizes what we do not have.  For a body to be healthy, each of the parts comprises a whole, works together, and needs each other.

3. There is great responsibility. (vv.25b-26)
We are responsible to use our gifts to serve and care for one another.  Preachers and Teachers are not gifted to puff up their knowledge, nor to provide a platform for a personality, but to help others understand the word of God.  Those with serving gifts are not to be known merely for their willing and tender hearts but their tireless activities of helping others in practical ways.  In the church, people must know each other and be involved with each other in order to obey these two verses.  Church is not a spectator sport.  Every believer has been gifted to be involved meaningfully.

JOY comes when a person realizes what God has given them and uses it for His glory.
Y-you will desire it.
O-others will recognize it in you.
J-Jesus will bless it.