What Are Spiritual Gifts?

  WHAT ARE SPIRITUAL GIFTS? Abilities given by the Spirit of God by grace through which He works for the common good of the body of Christ, for the glory of God.   "A spiritual gift is an ability given by the Holy Spirit to express our faith effectively (in word or deed) for the strengthening of someone else's faith."  John Piper   "For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine."  Romans 1:11-12   WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT SPIRITUAL GIFTS? For believers, each has a spiritual gift or gifts. "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."  1 Peter 4:10   You are far more gifted than you realize, but never gifted enough in your own strength.    Each gift is apportioned by God as He wills. "All these (gifts) are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills."  1 Corinthians 12:11   Each spiritual gift is given by God for the common good of body of Christ and unbelievers. "To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good."  1 Corinthians 12:7 WHY DOES IT MATTER? Because it is worship that God takes pleasure in. "I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."  Romans 12:1   Because in serving with your gift(s), it is a means through which God distributes His grace to others.  "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."  1 Peter 4:10   Because it is the means through which God changes the world.