Bible Passage: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.” (1Corinthians 12:7-11)
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
Today’s gifts are often called “The Manifestation Gifts” due to Paul’s phrasing in the above passage. The text suggests a particularly notable expression of the Spirit’s empowerment. Not all branches of Christianity believe these gifts are still in operation today, but we will include them here because they are part of Scripture.
Wisdom: The gifting to measure carefully what is right and good, with insight and proper judgment. Men gifted this way are thoughtful and methodical, seek counsel, and think things through.
Knowledge: The gifting to understand and share truth (from Scripture or other areas; consider King Solomon’s broad knowledge [1 Kings 4:32-34]). Men gifted this way are learners, always seeking understanding.
Faith: The gifting to trust God, regardless of circumstance. All faith comes as a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8), but men gifted this way have an unusual amount of trust, inspiring it in others.
Healing: The gifting to pray for and see God restore someone’s body. Men gifted this way follow the example of Christ (e.g., Matthew 4:23) and the apostles (e.g., Acts 5:16), seeking God for what only He can do.
Miracles: The gifting to pray for and see God work in ways contrary to the natural. Again, men gifted this way follow the example of Jesus (e.g., Acts 2:22) and the early Church (e.g., Acts 5:12), praying for God to supernaturally act in various ways.
Prophecy: The gifting to determine what the Holy Spirit is saying and sharing it with others for edification, encouragement, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3). Men gifted this way are spiritually sensitive and have the boldness to share.
Distinguishing of spirits: The gifting to determine what is of God, the enemy, the world, and the flesh (1 John 4:1-3). Men gifted this way can see past the surface and understand the underlying motivation behind what is happening.
Tongues: The gifting to speak in other human or heavenly languages. Men gifted this way experience what the apostles did in Acts 2:1-4 and speak in different tongues as the Spirit empowers.
Interpretation of tongues: The gifting to understand other human or heavenly languages and translate them to English (1 Corinthians 14:13-17). Men gifted this way can hear someone speaking in tongues and comprehend what the Spirit is saying.
These gifts glorify God and bless the members of the Church by helping us encounter God’s presence and power. Men gifted in these areas can be faithful stewards of their giftings to serve God and others in this way.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for how You reveal Yourself to Your people through these gifts. May Your Holy Spirit move through Your Church so we might encounter Your presence and power. Amen.
Reflection: Have you ever encountered someone gifted in one of these areas? What was inspiring about the encounter? How did it point you to Jesus? Do you see yourself in any of these giftings?
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