Page 15 - The Church and Education PDF Pro

The first and most obvious truth we learn from this text is that spiritual gifts are for strengthening
others. This, of course, does not mean that the person who has a spiritual gift gets no joy or benefit
from it. But it does suggest that gifts are given to be given. They are not given to be hoarded. “I desire
to share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you.” What does strengthen mean? He’s not referring
to bodily strength but strength of faith. The same word is used in I Thess. 3:2 where Paul says,

I Thess. 3:2 We sent Timothy, our brother and servant in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen you in your
faith and to exhort you that no one be moved by these afflictions.

So we see that spiritual gifts are NOT given for personal edification or to demonstrate that a person is
baptized or filled with the Holy Spirit. They were given to be a blessing to others and assist others in
their spiritual growth and faith walk.

According to I Peter 4:10-11 each person has received a gift.

I Peter 4: 10-11 As each has received a gift, employ it for one another (or serve it up to one another) as
good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who utters oracles of God; whoever
renders service, as one who renders it by the strength which God supplies; in order that in everything God
may be glorified through Jesus Christ.

These gifts are not for a few but for all and EVERY believer has abilities which the Holy Spirit has given
and can use to strengthen others. And it is the supreme joy of life to discover what they are and then
pour yourself out to others through these gifts. And you will find them if you really desire to be God’s
instrument in bringing about faith and joy in other people.

According to John Piper, the aim of all spiritual gifts is “that in everything God might be glorified through
Jesus Christ” (verse 11). This means that God’s aim in giving us gifts, and in giving us the faith to exercise
them, is that his glory might be displayed. He wants us and the world to marvel at him and to think he is
fantastic. The stupendous reality of God is all encompassing. “For from him and through him and to him
are all things” (Romans 11:36). And there is nothing more thrilling, more joyful, more meaningful, more
satisfying than to find our niche in the eternal unfolding of God’s glory. Our gift may look small, but as a
part of the revelation of God’s infinite glory it takes on stupendous proportions (Spiritual Gifts,
Desiringgod.org, March 15, 1981).

Let’s look at the gifts listed in Romans, Ephesians, and I Corinthians in more detail to better understand
how these special gifts can be utilized in the church.

1. Exhortation or Encouraging - To come along side of someone with words of encouragement,
comfort, consolation, and counsel to help them be all God wants them to be (Greek Word: paraklesis -
calling to one's side).

2. Giving - Gifted givers are those who joyfully share what they have with others, whether it is financial,
material, or the giving of personal time and attention. The giver is concerned for the needs of others and
seeks opportunities to share goods, money and time with them as needs arise.

3. Leadership (Administration) - The gifted leader is one who rules, presides over or has the
management of other people in the church. The word literally means “guide” and carries with it the idea

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