Gifts Of The Holy Spirit

As a quick review of the Fruit of the Holy Spirit we discussed the aspect that All of the Fruit is given to All Christians upon receiving the Holy Spirit in their new relationship with God. In contrast, we further discussed that the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are given by the Spirit and He decides which gift each person should have (1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NLT). We read a number of scriptures that have been identified as describing some of the various gifts given by the Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

• Message of wisdom
• Message of special knowledge
• Wonder-working faith
• Gifts of healing
• Power to perform miracles
• Ability to prophesy
• Ability to discern spirits
• Ability to speak in unknown languages
• Ability to interpret unknown languages
  

Ephesians 4:11

• Apostles
• Prophets
• Evangelists
• Pastors
• Teachers

1 Timothy 3:10 & 3:1

• Deacons
• Elders

Romans 12:4-8

• Serving
• Encouraging
• Contributing to the needs of others
• Leadership
• Showing mercy

1 Corinthians 12:28

• Helpers
• Organizers

1 Corinthians 7:7

• Gift of singleness
• Gift of marriage

The discussion continued with the emphasis of 1 Corinthians 12:31 (AMP) "… earnestly desire and zealously cultivate the greatest and best gifts" with love being the primary motivator (1 Corinthians 14:1 NLT) when we seek to use the gifts that God has given us. In talking about how these gifts are manifested in us through the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, we learned about the illustration of Nicander's pickle. This "pickling" or soaking in the Holy Spirit could also be understood in light of "communion" spoken of in Galatians 3:27 (AMP) For as many [of you] as were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union and communion with Christ, the Anointed One, the Messiah] have put on (clothed yourselves with) Christ.

This concludes our group study of the Holy Spirit … but, know that there is so much more and even deeper truths that one could spend time learning and gaining understanding of. With that in mind, be a pickle and soak in what God has given you to share with others!

Blessings!!