Taught by Jan S. and Denise H.
Notes by Linda G.
In today’s class Jan and Denise taught on Spiritual gifts. Next week we will continue on our journey through Nehemiah. Following is a short overview of the teaching. Last week we were given a spiritual gifts test to complete prior to this lesson. The test consisted of approximately 110 questions. Jan and Denise also had several handouts that covered spiritual gifts in detail. If you are interested in this information please contact Jan directly.
The definition of spiritual gifts that Jan gave us is as follows: A spiritual gift is a manifestation (visible work) of the Holy Spirit for the benefit of all. (See I Cor. 12:7)
Jan and Denise explained that spiritual gifts are not natural talents, although they can be incorporated into your gift. Spiritual gifts are not the fruit of the Spirit. (See Galatians 5:22-23) Spiritual gifts are something that are given to all believers. Denise and Jan explained that the gifts are both universal and local. Gifts are universal in that someone if Africa and someone in Mexico could have the same gift. They described gifts as being local as they pertain to an individual church. The Holy Spirit will supply the proper balance within a specific church. The gifts will be balanced throughout the congregation so that the church functions as a body – each needing the other part to act as a whole. Jan and Denise also taught that we should want His gifts so we can be used by Him, that we can have more than one gift, and that as we exercise the gifts that God has given us they will become stronger. God wants us to cultivate the gifts he has given us.
In concluding the lesson we were given six steps we could take to discover our spiritual gifts. They are as follows:
1)Asking. Begin to ask God to show you your gift.
2)Awareness. Read on the teaching of the spiritual gifts. These are found primarily in 1 Corinthians 12-14; Romans 12; Ephesians 4. Talk to other Christians who already know and use their gifts.
3)Aspiration. God is committed to your joy (see Psalm37:4). Ask yourself what you most want to do.
4)Activity. Discover your spiritual gifts by experimenting with several of the available gifts. Be wise and prayerful as you do this.
5)Ability. Activity eventually points to ability; ability increases with practice. Spiritual gifts are usually recognized by other members of the body.
6)Affirmation. A blessing should result from using your spiritual gifts.
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