Spiritual Gifts 101: How? (Part 1)
How many spiritual gifts are there?
Bible scholars disagree on the exact number of spiritual gifts. The three main lists in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4 are all different. Consequently, some scholars believe the lists were only meant to be examples, and other gifts may exist that weren’t mentioned. I teach that there are 21 spiritual gifts for two reasons.
- These 21 gifts are specifically listed in the Bible.
- These 21 gifts are all associated with a Greek word called charisma that means supernatural power.
How many spiritual gifts are given to each believer?
Every believer has at least one spiritual gift, but no one has all the gifts. Some believers have one gift; others have multiple gifts. The number of gifts is unimportant; rather, it’s your faithfulness and obedience in using your gifts.
How does God determine which spiritual gifts you receive?
God gives you the gifts you need to undertake your calling – your unique assignment from God. You can be confident that He has equipped you with every gift you will need to fulfill your calling.
How do spiritual gifts differ from abilities?
Everyone has abilities, but only believers have spiritual gifts – because only Christians have the Holy Spirit. Spiritual gifts reflect God’s power while abilities are a result of your strengths. Spiritual gifts have a spiritual impact that exceeds that of human abilities.
How do you identify your spiritual gifts?
The best way to know which gifts you have is to start serving! Get involved in ministry. Explore many different opportunities. Notice which activities energize you, rather than exhaust you. Be aware of God’s impact on others. Does anyone tell you that God used you? Ask mature believers which gifts they see in you. Most of all, notice when the impact is greater than your abilities. Look for God at work.
How does your role differ from the role of the Holy Spirit?
Spiritual gifts are like the electrical system in your home. You’re the wire; the Spirit is the electricity. The current flows through the wire, and when discharged, that energy transforms, alters, and changes the situation. When you serve others, it’s the Spirit’s power flowing through you to impact others. You are the plug in the socket, but it’s the power of the Spirit that brings about the results.
How does God use my spiritual gifts to impact others?
Spiritual impact occurs when spiritual gifts are used to move people closer to Christ. The Spirit works through a believer and the outcome is a change in spiritual life of others. But to have spiritual impact, you must have a close relationship with Jesus Christ. Focus on building your relationship with Him, then identify your gift and start using it.
© 2013 Designed to Serve®
Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.
