What is a Spiritual Gift?

Christian service, Church, Hot Topics, Ministry 4 Minutes

The Bible provides instruction about spiritual gifts, which are divine enablements given by God to Christians. Every Christian receives at least one spiritual gift, intended for use in ministering to others. These gifts are designed to benefit the body of Christ and contribute to its spiritual growth. However, not all spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible are active today, as some have ceased. The gifts that remain operative in the church can be broadly categorized into two groups: speaking gifts and serving gifts. These gifts continue because they are essential for the edification of believers and the fulfillment of God’s purposes during the present Church Age. The gifts that remain active today are intended to build up the church (Rom 12:6-8; 1 Cor 12:28; Eph 4:11-12), equip believers for ministry, and promote unity and spiritual maturity (Eph 4:11-16). The proper exercise of these gifts operate within the framework of God’s revealed Word, which is fully sufficient for guiding Christians in matters of faith, conduct, and ministry (2 Tim 3:16-17; Jude 1:3). The following active gifts are categorized into speaking (1-3) and serving (4-9):

  1. Teaching: The ability to explain and apply the Word of God accurately so that others are edified and equipped (Rom 12:7; Eph 4:11). This gift involves careful study of Scripture and the ability to communicate biblical truth clearly and practically.
  2. Evangelism: The ability to proclaim the gospel clearly and effectively, often leading others to faith in Christ (Eph 4:11). While all believers are called to share the gospel (Matt 28:19-20), some are specially gifted for evangelistic ministry.
  3. Pastor-Teacher: A dual role involving shepherding (pastoral care) and teaching the Word to guide and protect the flock (Eph 4:11). This gift is foundational for the spiritual health and growth of the local church.
  4. Serving (Helps): The ability to assist others in practical ways that free them to focus on their primary ministries (Rom 12:7; 1 Cor 12:28). This gift often operates behind the scenes.
  5. Faith: This gift refers to an extraordinary ability to trust God in difficult circumstances, exercise unwavering confidence in His promises, and inspire others to walk by faith (1 Cor 12:9). It is distinct from the natural faith that all people possess, which is necessary for salvation (John 3:16; Eph 2:8-9).
  6. Exhortation (Encouragement): The ability to encourage, comfort, and challenge believers to grow spiritually and remain faithful to the Lord (Rom 12:8). This gift is essential for helping others persevere in the Christian life.
  7. Giving: The ability to give generously and cheerfully to meet the needs of others and support God’s work (Rom 12:8). Those with this gift often have a special sensitivity to financial and material needs.
  8. Leadership (Administration): The ability to organize, lead, and manage people and resources effectively for the benefit of the church (Rom 12:8; 1 Cor 12:28). This gift involves strategic planning and guiding others toward common spiritual goals.
  9. Mercy: The ability to show compassion and empathy to those who are suffering, often bringing comfort, encouragement, and practical help (Rom 12:8). This gift reflects God’s heart of love and care for the hurting.

Spiritual Gifts That Have Ceased (Sign Gifts)

Some miraculous or “sign” gifts, such as tongues, healing, and miracles, were given during the apostolic era to authenticate the gospel and establish the early church (Acts 2:22; Heb 2:3-4). These gifts confirmed the apostles’ message before the New Testament was completed. However, they ceased after the apostolic era, having fulfilled their purpose (1 Cor 13:8-10). With Scripture now complete, the church is equipped through speaking and serving gifts, while God’s power continues to be evident through His providence and the ongoing ministry of His Word. These gifts include:

  1. Apostleship: The apostles were uniquely commissioned by Christ and were foundational to the church (Eph 2:20). Since they were eyewitnesses of the risen Christ and were directly appointed by Him (Mark 3:13-14; Acts 1:2; Gal 1:1; Eph 4:11; 1 Cor 9:1), this gift is no longer active.
  2. Prophecy (Revelatory): In the New Testament, prophecy involved receiving direct revelation from God (1 Cor 14:29-33). With the completion of the canon of Scripture, this gift is no longer necessary. God’s written Word provides all that is needed to be saved and to live righteously (2 Tim 3:16-17; Jude 1:3).
  3. Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues: Tongues were miraculous, Spirit-enabled human languages given as a sign to unbelievers (Acts 2:4-11), while the interpretation of tongues enabled the church to understand and be edified by these messages (1 Cor 12:10; 14:5, 21-22, 27-28). Both gifts served a temporary purpose during the apostolic era to authenticate the gospel and communicate divine truth before Scripture was complete. Having fulfilled their purpose, they have ceased in the present Church Age (1 Cor 13:8-10).
  4. Healing and Miracles: While God still heals and performs miracles according to His sovereign will, the specific gift of healing and working miracles, as exercised by the apostles, is no longer active. These sign gifts were given to validate the apostles’ message during the early church period (2 Cor 12:12; Heb 2:3-4).

In conclusion, while the sign gifts were temporary and ceased after the apostolic era, the speaking and serving gifts continue to operate today as part of God’s ongoing work in the church. These gifts are meant to be exercised in love (1 Cor 13:1-3) and in accordance with Scripture, with the ultimate goal of glorifying God and edifying His people (1 Pet 4:10-11). By discovering and using their spiritual gifts, believers can contribute to the effective functioning of the body of Christ and fulfill their God-given roles in His divine plan.

Dr. Steven R. Cook

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Published by Dr. Steven R. Cook

Dr. Steven R. Cook is a Christian educator. He is protestant, conservative, and dispensational. Studies in the original languages of Scripture, ancient history, and systematic theology have been the foundation for Steven’s teaching and writing ministry. He has written several Christian books, dozens of articles on Christian theology, and recorded more than seven hundred hours of audio and video sermons. Steven currently serves as professor of Bible and Theology at Tyndale Theological Seminary, and hosts weekly Bible studies at his home in Texas. Steven’s ministry activity is entirely voluntary (articles, blogs, podcasts, and video lessons), as he works a full time job as a Case Manager for a local nonprofit agency that helps the elderly and disabled in the community.

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