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What a Christian Believes

make a spiritual impact and so be effective.

The Gifts of the Spirit are given because christians have
need of them. They are not to be treated as a fashion
accessory, 'which one would I like? '

They are given not because of merit but as it says in
Romans 12 v6 'We have different gifts, according to the
GRACE given us.'

They are given to each person for the good of all.
1Corinthians 12 v7 'Now to each one, the manifestation
of the Spirit is given for the common good.' and v11 'all
these (gifts) are the work of one and the same Spirit, and
He gives them to each one as He determines.'

As it is the Holy Spirit who decides which of and to whom and
when He will give His gifts, it remains now to see how He
chooses so to do.

Paul gives an indication when he writes to the christians in
Rome about making a visit. Romans 1 v11 'I long to see
you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to
make you strong...' Also when he speaks to Timothy there
is a further indication how the gifts are imparted. 1Timothy 4
v14 'Do not neglect your gift, which was given to you
through a prophetic message, when the body of elders
(leaders) laid their hands on you.'

So the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and the Gifts of the Holy
Spirit are imparted to a believer, who receives by faith,
through the Laying on of Hands.

Remember that it is not the hands that impart the gift but
God himself.

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