Dr. C Peter Wagner has shown Christians a way in which they can 'Rediscover their Spiritual Gifts'. This can be a major emphasis in promoting spiritual growth in the church and for kingdom building. He promotes the idea:- "Many churches have rediscovered the gifts of the Holy Spirit in the last two decades. This has prompted a renewed interest in the work and gifts of the Holy Spirit."
Firstly it is important for us to know 'What the Gift is.'
Dr Wagner explains: 'How a talent, or skill is actually different to a Gift'
Think about the following things:
Your favourite Christmas you ever celebrated
The best gift you ever recieved
The best gift you ever gave someone else
Our triune God gives each and every one of us so much. God, our Father has given us creation and His only Son Jesus. Jesus - God's only Son gave His life for us on the cross and gives us eternal life. Jesus also gives us a most precious gift which is explained in Matthew 28: 20b (NIV)
Ask yourself "What ever-present gift is available to everybody from God?"
Write your thoughts down and contemplate the possiblities this question raises.
In clarifying this idea, we need to look closely at scripture. Read and note what this verse is actually saying to believers.
Acts 2:38 (NIV)
Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The Bible teaches us that just as the Father and the Son give, so does the Holy Spirit. This study that you are embarking upon can help both you and your Church to grow. We will explore what the gifts of the Spirit are. This will empower you with an understanding of how you will be able to use these gifts in ministry within the Body of Christ and in discipleship. All Christians a called to disciple (Matt 28: 19). It will highlight what particular gifts the Holy Spirit has given specifically to you.
How would you define a talent or a skill?
A talent, or skill, is a natural ability, aptitude or disposition. It is something that we are born with.
How is a talent, or skill, different from a spiritual gift?
A spiritual gift from God is not something we are born with. While God gives us both talents and spiritual gifts, talents exist in the natural while spiritual gifts exist in the supernatural.
Study takes time. Don't rush it!
You and your Church can Grow Spiritually by recognising the Spiritual Gifts each person is empowered with and this will grow both you and your church.
Discover a Gift