Walking with Jesus - walk on water #6

Walking with Jesus

Palm Sunday 2010

An avid duck hunter was in the market for a new bird dog. His search ended when he found a dog that could actually walk on water to retrieve a duck. Shocked by his find, he was sure none of his friends would ever believe him so he just invited a skeptical friend to hunt with him and his new dog.

As they waited by the shore, a flock of ducks flew by. They fired, and a duck fell. The dog responded and jumped into the water. The dog, however, did not sink but instead walked across the water to retrieve the bird, never getting more than his paws wet.

The friend saw everything but did not say a single word.

On the drive home the hunter asked his friend, "Did you notice anything unusual about my new dog?"

"I sure did," responded his friend. "He can't swim."

Isn’t that the way some people are?  They only see what they expect to see?  They only see what they want to see.

This is the last of the sermons in the series, “If You Want To Walk On Water You Have To Get Out Of Your Boat.”  We have talked about a lot of different things. (slide) The final lesson is that there is only one way to walk on water:  Jesus’ way.

The problem with the friend in the hunting dog story is that he thought there was only one way for a dog to retrieve a duck: swimming, in other words HIS WAY.

The problem with the leaders in Jesus day was they thought there was only one way for the messiah to come into their lives: riding high on a mighty war horse to drive out the Romans.  In other words THEIR WAY.

The truth is that a dog that can walk on the water is a pretty remarkable thing in itself.  A messiah who comes in a sneak attack on the values and philosophies of the day is a pretty powerful thing in itself.  And a savior that keeps surprising us, calling us to see things differently challenging us to do things we would not and could not do by ourselves, inviting us to step out of our boats, our fears our doubts and walk across the water with him is a savior worth following.

But we have to get out of the boat of our own expectations, our own preconceived ideas, our own plans and our own lives in order to follow him. 

Those who would follow Jesus had to set aside their own plans from the very beginning.

·         Conceived out of wed lock to a poor young mother?  That is certainly outside the boat. 

·         Born in a stable rather than a palace?  That’s outside the boat.

·         Being baptized by his cousin, going to synagogue like any Jewish boy, squabbling with his brothers and sisters and being misunderstood by even his family?  That is outside the boat of normal expectation for the son of God.

·         Calling fishermen, eating with tax collectors, healing the children of the occupying soldiers, breaking the Sabbath law; touching lepers, hemorrhaging women, and Samaritans.  That is a messiah that is way outside the boat of normal expectations.

·         Riding into town on a donkey covered with a common cloak surrounded by an adoring crowd when the leaders expected a messiah on a beautiful stallion, with a real saddle, surrounded by soldiers to overturn the military occupation. 

That is the Jesus we follow; the one who turned the boat upside-down.    (SLIDE)  The one who shattered expectations, the one who surprised the powerful, the one who lifted up the weak, the one who healed the untouchable, the one who whose victory parade was on a humble colt, and the one who calls ordinary people like you and me to do extraordinary things like walk on water—that the Jesus we follow.

You notice the boat is gone this morning.  That is intentional. The events of the coming week are so extraordinary that there is only one symbol that speaks to both the horror and the hope.  That is the cross. (SLIDE) Today we begin a journey with Jesus that is way beyond water walking. 

·         Today Jesus asks us not just to leave our boats behind, but to leave our selves behind. 

·         Today Jesus calls us not to just leave our lifejackets behind, but to leave our doubt behind. 

·         Today Jesus asks us not to just leave our doubts and fears behind, but to leave our lives behind to walk the way of the cross with him.

·          Jesus Calls us not just to be water walkers, but cross walkers.

Are you ready to walk that road with Jesus?

·         The road of the palms that leads into Jerusalem.

·         The road of the last supper.

·         The road of betrayal.

·         The road of rejection.

·         The road of suffering.

·         The road of death.

·         The road of love.

·         Are you ready to be a cross-walker?

The cave of Discouragement

What’s in your cave?

Walk on water #E

I hate to break the news to you but  we all may have the world's deadliest disease. No, it's not cancer, not polio, nor MS, and not AIDS. It's Discouragement.

Why is discouragement such a dreaded disease? First, because it's universal. All of us get discouraged. I do, you do, we all do. Discouragement is common. Even Christians get discouraged. Second, because it's recurring. You can get discouragement over and over again. It's not just a one-time thing. Third, because it's highly contagious. Other people can get discouraged because you're discouraged.

John Ortberg speaks of the cave of fear.  I think we also need to look out for the cave of discouragement.  Fear and discouragement are like Siamese twins.  They often go hand in hand.  They have been called “The Paralysis Twins: Fear and Discouragement” discouragement and fear.  Earlier we talked about fear.  Today I want to talk about discouragement.

I suspect that some of you had a hard time relating to “fear” you thought I’m not afraid.  That doesn’t apply to me.  But there is still something keeping me in my boat.  Let me suggest to you that maybe discouragement is a better word for you. 

What’s the difference?  Let’s look at it this way.  What is the opposite of fear?  “Courage?”  That would be a good word.  And what is the opposite of courage?  Maybe fear, but how about “dis-courage?”  Do you see how they are related?

I suggest that one of the differences is that fear is related to our perception of external events.  Discouragement, however, has to do with our perception of internal events, feelings and realities.  If you want to know if you are a victim of this lack of courage, whether it is fear or discouragement, check your buts.  NO NOT THOSE BUTTS—YOUR BUTS:” --- 

·                     " I really believe God is calling me to a career in..... BUT"

·                      or, "God showed me that I could .....BUT" or,

·                     "I feel like I should .... BUT" 

·                     “I would like to . . .  BUT”  

·                     I would get out of my boat. . . BUT.

It could be because you have allowed the mountains of fear and/or discouragement to set up camp right on top of your faith. Well it's time for us to get off our buts and get on with our faith—it is time for us to get out of our caves of fear and discouragement and get into God’s boat.  It is time for us to get out of our boats and live faithfully for God NO MATTER WHAT!

·        ----Can you think of a time of deep discouragement in your life?

·         What circumstances do you feel caused your discouragement?

·         What emotions did you feel?

When we are discouraged, our faults, failures and imperfections are glaringly obvious to us. Negative thoughts come more easily than positive ones. It is not our reality; it is our perception. Discouragement, and the feelings of worthlessness it cultivates, can send us into hiding and render us helpless. Feelings of inadequacy can overtake us in waves. Unfortunately, our walk with God, our faith, and our trust in Him do not prevent us from experiencing disappointment, tragedy, or calamity.

·         --Has there ever been a time when you, cried out to God, “Enough already?”

·         In such a situation, what positive response can a person choose to make?

We sometimes feel that we have had enough, have lost our value, and should be replaced by a newer, better, shinier model.

Then to our weakness, God brings strength. To our turmoil, He speaks peace. To our confusion, He brings clarity. To our hopelessness, He brings vision and a plan for our future.

In our walk with God, disappointments will come and discouragement may follow.

However, we are only slaves to our circumstances when we remove God from them.  There are times when things are patently out of our control. There are other times when God simply wants us to relinquish control and trust Him with our lives.

·         ---How do you usually react to tough times?

·         What can you do to increase your dependence upon the Lord?

When life seems uncertain and we aren’t sure what our next step will be, fear can imprison our courage. Nevertheless, there are steps we can take to prevent and overcome the onslaught of discouragement.

·         Recognize the signs: What does your discouragement look like?? Sometimes we feel uneasiness in our spirit, but cannot discern the origin. It may be as simple as an untimely or off-hand comment, or it could be something of spiritual significance.

·         Know your enemy. Disappointment and discouragement can create division in our relationships. Whether they are familial, professional, or church relationships, we need to guard against casting blame. The enemy (discouragement) is not “out there” somewhere it is spiritual and the cure is spiritual.   2 Corinthians 10:4 (The Message) We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped  philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.

·        Praise, Worship, and Pray. Take time to mentally separate yourself from your situation and spend time with the Lord. He may not remove you from your circumstance, but He will guide you through it. “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him,” (Psalm 62:1 NIV).

·         Go to church, even when you don’t feel like it. The importance of the ministry in our lives is evidenced by the value placed on it in Scripture. God has placed leaders and fellow Christians in our lives. Allow God to minister to you through the preached Word and through the fellowship of believers. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25).

·          Recall God’s faithfulness in your past.  “When I remember thee … because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice” (Psalm 63:6-7).

·         Wait on the Lord. There is no greater temptation during a time of discouragement than the one to hurry God. It is in us to avoid suffering. It is in us to revel in our strengths. But, the Lord is not afraid of our weakness. “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart: wait, I say, on the LORD” (Psalm 27:14).

·          What situation are you now facing that you can apply the above steps to overcome your discouragement?

·         What action can you take this week that will start you on your way?

There are few things in life that are exclusive to us. Others have gone before you.  They have suffered and wept. They have felt sadness, discouragement and fear. They have been abused and abandoned. They have felt worthless and hopeless. They have wanted to give up. But, because they didn’t, they have found that: “You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.” (I Peter 5:10).

March 21st sermon - Walking on water in concrete overshoes

Walking on water with concrete overshoes

WOnW #5

March 21,2010

The council chair and the chairman of the trustees invited the pastor fusing one day.   After an hour or so the chairman of the church council said, "I'm thirsty," and stepped out of the boat. He then walked on water and took a drink from a cooler he had sitting on the beach and walked on the water again back to the boat.
Later on, the trustee chair said, "I'm thirsty," and stepped out of the boat. He then walked on water and also took a drink from a cooler he had sitting on the beach and walked on the water again back to the boat.
Later on, the pastor said, "I'm thirsty.” However, as soon as he stepped out of the boat, he drowned.
The other two men looked at each other and said, "Think we shoulda' told him where the rocks were?"

I’ll bet that pastor felt like a failure didn’t he? 

Have you ever started something, thinking it was a great idea, and just fell flat on your face?  Sure, you have.  We all have.  Sometimes we think we are ready, we think this is the great idea; we think we are doing the right thing.  We step out of the boat only to realize that we forgot to take off our concrete overshoes.  And we sink like a rock.

March 17th sermon- What's in the wind

What’s in the wind?

Wednesday WOW #d

March 17, 2010

Everybody knows about the Fujita Scale, which measures the power of tornados. But nobody really knows what all those types of twisters do to COWS. So here is the MOOJITA Scale...
MOOJITA SCALE

M0 Tornado- Cows in an open field are spun around parallel to the wind flow and become mildly annoyed
M1 Tornado- Cows are tipped over and can't get up
M2 Tornado- Cows begin rolling with the wind
M3 Tornado- Cows tumble and bounce
M4 Tornado- Cows are AIRBORN
M5 Tornado- S T E A K ! ! ! 

We don’t know that kind of wind Peter saw.  Maybe he saw a cow blow  by, we don’t  know.   But we do know it was scary. It was scary enough to shake his faith. Scary enough to make him doubt.

I remember when I lead the scaffolding crew at 3M we were asked to build scaffolding  on the edge of a roof, cantilever it out over the side to a pipe on the side of an exhaust  structure that needed to be replaced.  As long as I focused on the roof and the pipe, I was fine.  When someone dropped a knuckle and we all watched it fall and fall and fall and fall, it got us to think about the fact that  we were building this thing hanging 120’ off the ground up another 30’ to the pipe.  The project suddenly got a lot harder.  Nothing had changed.  We were sitting in exactly the same place doing exactly the same thing, but it became a lot harder.

March 14th Sermon- that's what faith can do

That’s what fear FAITH can do

Walk on water #4

March 14, 2009

We are such a fearful society that we do everything we can to eliminate risk.  We buy every kind of insurance – from life insurance to replacement policies for our cell phones to provide us with the security we think we need.  We pay extra for warranties on our computers and appliances.

We read safety test results in Consumer Reports before buying an automobile.  And put warning labels  on everything from guns to plastic bags.

We wouldn’t think about buying a car without seatbelts and airbags- in fact so much so, that we make it illegal.  We want a secure, germ-free, risk-free, fear-free environment. 

We only need to look at a jar of peanut butter - a lid is not nearly safe enough,  the foil safety seal is not enough, we also have to have a plastic ring heatshrunk around the lid to assure us that our peanut butter is safe.

We wouldn’t think of purchasing Tylenol or aspirin that didn’t come in a tamperproof container. 

Our nation spends a fortune on equipment and man power to keep our airports and air travel as safe as possible.

Is it any wonder that when God calls His people to move – to get out of the usual - to do something daring for Him- when He calls us to be bold and take a risk- when Jesus calls us to get out of our boat we don’t do it because we’re afraid?  We are part of a culture that loves to be secure.  And that extends to our relationship with God. 

I suspect when I talk about walking on water there are some who say- no way- not without a life preserver!  Well here we go- this week I’m preaching with a life preserver.    In Fact we life our safety so much I think two might be in order.

This week's e-news

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• TODO
• THANK YOU
• PRAYERS
• SERVANT OPPORTUNITIES
• WORSHIP VOLUNTEERS
• WALK ON WATER
• CAMP
• SEDER
  
• CALENDAR

Click Here for the entire e-news

Terry Plocher
Reinbeck UMC
http://www.forministry.com/USIAUMETCRUMCR/

Wednesday March 10 meditation

To whom are you listening?

WoW #c

March 10,  2010

Can you hear me now? 

Verizon has gotten a lot of mileage out of that commercial haven’t they?  I love the way bluefish TV turned it around to teach about prayer.  But don’t you think God must ask the same question sometimes?

Yoo-hoo Adam can you hear me now?

Hey Wilderness Wanderers can you hear me now?

Now that I have destroyed the Philistine army, can you hear me now?

Jonah, when you get the whale vomit washed off, I have a question.  Can you hear me now?

Disciples, Corinthians, church members, Terry. . .  can you hear me now?

There are so many voices in our world. 

1.      Voices from the media predicting doom, promising happiness if we just buy this particular brand of magic something or another,  encouraging us to compromise on our beliefs,  teaching our children things that we would rather they didn’t learn.  And God says can you hear me know?

2.      Voices from our families, and friends.  Pulling us this way and that way, demanding attention here and begging for time there.  Sure our families and friends are important but is that the voice that we want to drive our lives?  And then we hear God ask “can you hear me now?”

3.      Voices from our gut.  How many hungry children have you seen on TV this month?  How many pathetic dogs?  How many needy organizations have told you they will have to shut their doors if you don’t send them some money.  How many organizations and commitments do you have tugging at your guilt strings for your time and your energy? They may all be worthy, but many distract from the important work at hand.  God says “do you hear me now?”

4.      And voices from our heads.  We think we ought to do that.  We know we need to do this.  Do you have a voice in your head that says, “You screwed up again?  You never do anything right?”  I do.  Do you have a voice that says, “There are 14 reasons that won’t work?”  I do.  Do you have a voice saying “You’ll never win, you’ll never get on top of your finances.  You’ll never catch up.  You’ll never be good enough.  You’ll never. . . “  whatever. . .  Most of us do.

But those aren’t the only voices in our lives.  They aren’t even the most important voices in our lives. When they get to rattling around and buzzing in our brains sometimes we just have to say “SHUT UP!”  Don’t you think God hears all that and just wants to say “Be still.”  When the wind blows and the waves push us here and there and our brains are on input overload, demand overload, need overload, hurt overload, and guilt overload---  When our eyes are focused on the waves and wind instead of on Jesus.  WE WILL SINK! 

We must sort out all the voices.  Sort out the voices that try to claim our allegiance.  Throw out the voices that claim moral or spiritual primacy over the teachings of Jesus.  Ignore the voices that seek to distract us from the important work of the Kingdom of God. Focus on the voice- the single solitary voice that says it is I come.  The single solitary face that glows with love and acceptance.  The single solitary hand that reaches into the storm of our lives and the only one that can truly promise salvation: JESUS.

There is a voice to which we should be listening.  It is a voice of love, a voice of hope.  A voice of truth.  Listen to the voice of truth.

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Sunday March 7 sermon- step over the side

Step over the side  (WoW #3)

Reinbeck UMC

March 7, 2010

This is our third week of the Walk on Water series and there are still some of you who don’t think you can walk on water?  Would you walk on water if you were this guy?

I know I would.

Some people will never get water walking.  You see you have to believe in something bigger than yourself.  Something beyond our pathetic little lives.  Something that is far greater and far more valuable than anything else in all creation.

To do that requires faith.

We read from the  11^th chapter of Hebrews this morning.  That passage begins faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.   

Assurance of things hoped for What do we hope for?  Most fundamentally, we say it every time we pray the Lord’s Prayer.  “Thy Kingdom Come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”   “Thy Kingdom Come, thy will be done, in Reinbeck as it is in heaven.”  “Thy Kingdom Come, thy will be done, in our church as it is in heaven.”  “Thy Kingdom Come, thy will be done, in our lives as it is in heaven.”   WOW!!!   That it makes it real doesn’t it?

There was a farmer who had been trying to decide what God wanted him to do with his life.  He went to church and prayed and studied and listened and watched for a sign.  Finally He was out plowing one day and the clouds began to move around kind of funny.  They started to look like letters and there appeared in the sky over his field the letters “G---P---C”  “GPC” he thought.  “GPC”  “Go Preach Christ.”  So off he went to college and seminary and he became a  student pastor.  When he preached his first sermon he fell flat on his face.  If the congregation weren’t so polite they might have booed it was so bad.

The same thing happened with his second and third.  And he really began to doubt.

So he went back to his field and prayed  “You know God, I prayed and you sent me that message telling me to Go preach Christ and I did and  here I am a miserable failure.  I have uprooted my family, gone to school, given up the farm and now I am a failure.  Why did you tell me to go preach Christ if you weren’t going to make me successful.  To his surprise the clouds began to stir again and they formed into letters.  Except there were more than three letters this time.  He saw  G---P---C.  And then the rest of the letters came into focus. And said   “ Go  Plant Corn. “

Sometimes we are called to things that seem real spiritual and churchy- sometimes we are called to things that are very earthy like planting corn.

The important thing is I want you to know with absolute certainty that you are all called by God.  You have a call from God .  You might answer that call planting corn, or preaching Christ.  You have a calling from God.  You might answer that call as  a machinist or a missionary.  You have a calling from God.   Whether you serve as a Sunday school teacher or a store clerk.  You have a call from God .  In whatever way you live the prayer,  “Thy Kingdom Come thy will be done in my life as it is in heaven.”  You have a call from God.

We are all called by God to faithfully use our God given gifts and talents for the benefit of the kingdom, the church and others. 

Our church is called as well.  We pray that same prayer every week don’t we “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, in our church as it is in heaven.”

Through the years many have risen to that call  Mr.  Avery when he started the church; your parents by providing low cost suppers for 15-30 cents during the depression; many of you saw many migrant workers during the 40’s and you answered the call and  fed them. When the church burned you saw a vision you answered the call to the future, raised the money, made the sacrifices and built this building.

Through the years you have answered the call a hundred ways in your giving, outreach and faithfulness to the gospel.

I am asking you to answer the call again. There are probably 100 ways we could answer the call of God  as a church.  Part of my job is to help us sort those out so we take the right steps.  With the help of a lot of other  people, and the board and a lot of prayer I believe I have identified the place we are being asked to step out of our boat this spring. 

Our current family ministry-- to children youth, and parents is hobbling.  The children’s choir has died, the Christmas program had half as many people this year as it has in the past, the  Children’s Sunday School attendance is down, the youth group has been on hiatus since October, the High School Sunday School class has had 3 students this year, and they have taken turns being here.  More often than not, there have been no students. 

I’ll be the first to point out that this is partially demographic.  We are in an aging community.  BUT  it is not all demographic. 

·         There are 23 High School students on our list - the class has had an average attendance of _____ this year.   It is not all demographic.

·         And I have been asking for a youth leader for a year and have yet to find anyone who will say yes.  How can we hope to have a youth ministry without a leader.  That is not demographic.

·         There are 34 elementary  students on our list the average Sunday School  attendance is 9.  That is not all demographic.

·         And worship attendance for those families is even worse.  That is not all demographic.

It is not all demographic.  Part of the problem is we have been following the same  children, youth and family ministry model for 50 years or more and we all know that families are not the same as they were 50 years ago.  Someone moved the cheese and we haven’t wanted to admit it.  Someone has changed the rules and forgot to tell us.

Things are changing though. And each of us needs to  get out of our comfortable boat and get behind the change.  You remember hearing about the leadership  retreat- you remember hearing about the youth and family taskforce---  Here is the bottom line. 

We have 5 firmly committed families and a core group of 10 others who have risen - in this process-- and said we need to do something.

Now we have something to do.   It will be called something like Wednesday night LIGHT or LIGHT night.  It will start the Wednesday after Easter and last for 8 weeks.  Then everything can be re-evaluated.  Light Night is a family program- raise your hand if you are part of a family-- that’s right everyone is in the family.

You saw the details in the newsletter.  It is a family program starting with dinner at 5:30, Education time, Worship and by 7:30 the lights are off and everyone is on their way home.  It would  replace Children’s  and youth Sunday School for these 8 weeks.   There is still a lot of work to be done.  And that is where you come in . 

I need you to get out of your boat and get 100% behind this program  (Will it succeed? I don’t know.  But looking at similar successful programs like Grundy Center UMC and Wellsburg Reformed it has a good chance! And if it doesn’t that’s OK we try something else. Is it the answer to all of our problems? No.  That’s what the youth and parent meeting this morning was all about.)

What we are trying to do is faithfully respond to God’s call.  And in order to  do that we are going to have to get out of our boats.

I need you to not do one  thing.

1.      I need you to not say “That won’t work” or “I told you so” if it doesn’t   For some that is a pretty big step out of the boat.

Then I need you to do a few things.

1.      I need you to step out of your boat and answer the call to support these families, and others who will come by supporting this ministry. We are all in this church together.  I need 100% of you to support, encourage, volunteer and donate for this new ministry.

2.      I need 50 people to get out of their boat-- or their couch as the case may be--  to commit to be present at this ministry for the first 4 weeks.  All kinds of people of all ages.  Just to be present and get a free supper!

3.      Finally I need someone to step out of their boat and answer the call to love our youth by leading our youth ministry.

Will we step out of your boat?  Will we answer the call by you putting ourselves 100% behind this program?  More importantly, Will we put ourselves 100% behind those families who are saying “I want more for my children and youth?” Will someone get 100% behind our youth and lead them in ministry?

Will we step over the edge- step out of the boat and answer God’s call to reach out in ministry?  I hope so.  I pray so.

Finding your gifts  1 Corinthians 12 

 

 

We all like to get gifts.  Christmas gifts, Birthday gifts, anniversary gifts, valentine gifts, gifts for no special reason.

 Every one has their own style.  Some rip in to the paper as though they were starving and it contained the first dinner they had seen in a month.

Others carefully unseal every piece of tape as though it might contain a bomb.

Still others shake the living daylights out of it to try to guess before they begin with the paper.

 

I have always been surprised, though that when it comes to spiritual gifts so many people have the same style.  They look at it say thank you and set it aside.  It is not that we don’t know that God gives us gifts.  It is not that we aren’t thankful.  It is not that we don’t care.  I have come to the conclusion, however, that there are many people who are afraid to open their spiritual gift box.  I suspect that it has something to do with thinking that if they don’t open the gift-wrap no one will notice that they aren’t using their gifts.  If they don’t open it they can’t be held accountable for not using their gifts.  Perhaps is has more to do with not being convinced that God really does gift each and every one of us.  At any rate, I find it curious.  That is why I have set this time aside tonight for us to do some gift opening.

 

First a couple of things you need to know.  I read 1 Corinthians 12 because in that one chapter we can learn most of what we need to know.

1.      Every Christian has at least one Spiritual Gift- every part of the body has a job and none of us is useless, unimportant, or giftless.

2.      No Christian has all the gifts.  The ear cannot say to the eye I do not need you , nor can it say you do not need me. 

3.      We cannot choose our gifts; God does that job --“  All these gifts have a common origin, but are handed out one by one by the one Spirit of God. He decides who gets what, and when.”

4.      There is no gift that every Christian possesses -the body is not whole unless all the members participate.

5.      Gifts used without love do not accomplish God's intended purposes - Paul lays that out clearly in 1 Corinthians 13.

6.      Spiritual Gifts are for the common good to build up the Body -- only as you accept your part in the body does your gift mean anything.

I could go on teaching you about Spiritual gifts or we can go about discovering them.  Let’s enter into prayerful discovery.

As I see it,  there are four categories of gifts.  Equally important but different.  I base this division on the intended recipient of the gift.

1.      There are gifts that are oriented toward the church as a body. Things like administration, generosity and worship leadership.  They are for the body of believers.

2.      There gifts oriented  toward our brothers and sisters in the faith.  Intended to build up the body by building individuals.  Encouragement and discernment would be a couple examples of those gifts.

3.      Third there are gifts that are aimed at persons outside the body with the goal of bringing them into the body.  Evangelism leaps to mind, but I think intercession and teaching should be included there as well as many others. 

4.      Finally there are gifts that are mostly for the individual believer.  For instance the gift of faith,  wisdom, music and poverty might be best understood as building up ourselves as part of the body.

Most gifts fit into more than one category and I have been very liberal in putting them in more than one station. 

Now I want to give you the opportunity to spend some time in prayer over each type of gift.  And I would like you to select one or more gifts at each station that you either believe you have or to which you feel drawn.  Remember this is not something that happens in your head, it happens in your heart by the spirit of God. It is not scientific, and there is no right or wrong.  There is simply you and God.   Think about your abilities, your interests, your strengths,  the things that break your heart, the things that make you excited and the things that worry you.  Those will be good hints as you select a gift.

I encourage you to select one in each category, write it on your worksheet.

 I’ll give you about 5 minutes at each station so you will have plenty of time to be in prayer, study and meditation.  . I will tell you when you have one minute left at your gift station. There are gift sheets , bibles, and worksheets on each station.  I will be here if you have questions or you are stuck, let me be the 5^th station that you can come to if  you need to visit about a particular gift or  your specific gifts.  Please just divide yourselves about evenly among the stations and you will have time to go to all of them.  Let us be in a spirit of prayer

 

((Start quiet instrumental music on CD))

 

 

Gathering around the boat- meditation wrap up

 

I hope you have selected 4 spiritual gifts.  Each of your gifts will be different because each of you is a unique a beautiful gift from God.  Now I ask you to pick up a gift card on each table.  On that card, write the one gift you think is the dominant gift of all those you have been given.  Or one you really want to offer to God.  Then gather around the boat.

As we sing let us each decide we are going to get out of the boat and offer our gifts to God.  As you do that, place your card with your dominant gift written on it in the boat.  Please keep the full page and use that to guide your prayers for this week.

Walk on Water-Quentin

 

Benediction

___________________’s Spiritual gifts

                      (name)

 

 

My God given gift for the church (the body)…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My God given gift for others in the body (brothers and sisters in the faith)…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My God given gift for people outside the body …

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My God given gift for my own growth toward God…

 

 

My God given spiritual gift(s). . .	My God given spiritual gift(s). . .
My God given spiritual gift(s). . .	My God given spiritual gift(s). . .

 

Spiritual gifts list

You need to be aware that there is not universal agreement among Christians regarding the number of spiritual gifts.  I have tried to be comprehensive without “stretching” too far.  These gifts seem to be pretty well accepted though some will certainly debate whether certain gifts should be included.

I believe that the diversity of God’s spiritual gifts is no more limited than the diversity of God’s people.  If you believe that God has given you a spiritual gift that is not listed here, ask 3 questions.

1.                 Does this gift come from God?

2.                 Is it intended to build either the church, each other, others or myself up?

3.                 How can I use this gift for God today?

Blessings on your growth through gifts.

Some people look at the key Bible passages on Spiritual Gifts and limit the Gifts to the ones listed there:

Romans 12 - Prophecy, Service, Teaching, Encouragement, Giving, Leadership, and Mercy

1 Corinthians 12 - Message of Wisdom, Message of Knowledge, Faith, Healing, Miraculous Powers, Prophecy, Distinguishing between spirits, Speaking in Tongues, and Interpreting Tongues

Ephesians 4 - Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, and Teacher

Some add the possibility of other gifts:

1 Corinthians 7:1-9 - Celibacy

1 Peter 4:9-10 - Hospitality

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 - Martyrdom (not included in this test!)

Ephesians 3:6-8 - Missionary

1 Corinthians. 13:1-3 - Voluntary Poverty

Ephesians 6:18 - Intercession / Prayer

Luke 1:1-3 - Writing

Administration

Administration (Serving Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to steer the body toward the accomplishment of God-given goals and directives by planning, organizing, and supervising others.

The divine enablement to understand what makes an organization function and the special ability to plan and execute procedures that accomplish the goals of the ministry.

People with this gift:

- develop strategies or plans to reach identified goals

- assist ministries to become more effective and efficient

- create order out of organizational chaos

- manage or coordinate a variety of responsibilities to accomplish a task

- organize people, tasks, or events.

(See also Leadership )

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Luke 14:28-30

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Apostle

Apostle (Leadership Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to exercise general leadership or oversight over a number of churches with an authority in spiritual matters, which is readily recognized. In the strict sense this gift was confined to the twelve apostles. The New Testament does, however, give this title to a number of others, e.g. Romans 16:7 and Acts 14:14 . It is the gift whereby the Spirit appoints certain Christians to lead, inspire, and develop the churches of God by the proclamation and the teaching of true doctrine.

The divine ability to start and oversee the development of new churches or ministry structures.

People with this gift:

- pioneer and establish new ministries or churches

- adapt to different surroundings by being culturally sensitive and aware

- desire to minister to unreached people in other communities or countries

- have responsibilities to oversee ministries or groups of churches

- demonstrate authority and vision for the mission of the church.

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Ephesians 4:11-16

2 Corinthians 12:12

Matthew 10:1-8

Acts 2:42-44

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Celibacy

Celibacy - The special ability God gives to some to voluntarily remain single without regret and with the ability to maintain control over sexual impulses so as to serve the Lord without distraction.

Celibacy is a state totally opposed to all of the biological, social, and emotional needs built into man or woman by God. Only God is able to overrule instincts and by grace control them so that a person can remain unmarried.

Being unmarried is not necessarily the same as having this gift. Those who have this gift remain single because they feel they can serve the Lord better that way.

People with this gift:

- remain single so as to be able to devote themselves completely to ministry

- have other gifts that they are able to use more effectively because they are celibate.

1 Corinthians 7:1-9

1 Corinthians 7:32-35

Matthew 19:10-12

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Craftsmanship / Artist

Craftsmanship / Artist - The gift that gives the believer the skill to create artistic expressions that produce a spiritual response of strength and inspiration. Skilled Craft - the gift that enables a believer to create, build, maintain, or repair items used within the church.

The divine enablement to creatively design and/or construct items to be used for ministry or the divine enablement to communicate God's truth through a variety of art forms.

People with this gift:

- work with wood, cloth, paint, metal, glass, and other raw materials

- make things which increase the effectiveness of other's ministries

- design and build tangible items and resources for ministry use

- work with different kinds of tools and are skilled with their hands

- use the arts to communicate God's truth

- develop and use artistic skills such as drama, writing, art, music, dance, etc.

- use variety and creativity to captivate people and cause them to consider Christ's message

- challenge people's perspective of God through various forms of the arts

- demonstrate fresh ways to express the Lord's ministry and message.

Exodus 28:3-4

Exodus 31:1-11

Exodus 35:30-35

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Discernment / Distinguishing Spirits

Discernment / Distinguishing of Spirits - The special ability God gives to some to know with assurance whether certain behavior or teaching is from God, Satan, human error, or human power.

The divine enablement to distinguish between truth and error, to discern the spirits, differentiating between good and evil, right and wrong.

People with this gift:

- distinguish truth from error, right from wrong, pure motives from impure

- identify deception in others with accuracy and appropriateness

- determine whether a word attributed to God is authentic

- recognize inconsistencies in a teaching, prophetic message, or interpretation

- are able to sense the presence of evil.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

1 John 4:1-6

1 Corinthians 2:9-16

2 Chronicles 2:12

Psalms 119:125

Proverbs 3:21

1 Kings 3:9

Hebrews 5:14

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Encouragement

Encouragement (Speaking Gift) - The special ability God gives some to offer comfort, words of encouragement, hope, and reassurance to discouraged, weak, or troubled Christians in such a way that they are consoled.

People with this gift:

- come to the side of those who are discouraged to reassure them and give them hope

- emphasize God's promises and confidence in his will.

(See also Exhortation )

Romans 12:6-8

Titus 1:9

Acts 11:23-24

Acts 14:21-22

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

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Evangelism / Evangelist

Evangelism / Evangelist - The special ability God gives to some to proclaim the Gospel of salvation effectively so that people respond to the promises of Christ through conversion to Christianity.

The divine enablement to effectively communicate the gospel to unbelievers so they respond in faith and move toward discipleship.

People with this gift:

- communicate the message of Christ with clarity and conviction

- seek out opportunities to talk to unbelievers about spiritual matters

- challenge unbelievers to faith and to become fully devoted followers of Christ

- adapt their presentation of the gospel to connect with the individual's needs

- seek opportunities to build relationships with unbelievers.

Ephesians 4:11-16

Matthew 28:16-20

Acts 2:36-40

Acts 8:5-6

Acts 14:21

Acts 8:26-40

2 Timothy 4:5

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Exhortation

Exhortation (Speaking Gift) - The special ability God gives some to help strengthen weak, faltering, and fainthearted Christians in such a way that they are motivated to be all God wants them to be.

The ability to help others reach their full potential by means of encouraging, challenging, comforting, and guiding.

The divine enablement to present truth so as to strengthen or urge to action those who are discouraged or wavering in their faith.

People with this gift:

- come to the side of those who are weak in spirit to strengthen them

- challenge or confront others to trust and hope in the promises of God

- urge others to action by applying Biblical truth

- offers advise, an outline for a solution, or a program for progress

- motivates others to grow.

(see also Encouragement )

1 Timothy 5:1-2

Hebrews 3:13 (King James Version)

Hebrews 13:22

1 Thessalonians 5:14 (King James version)

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Faith

Faith - The special conviction God gives to some to be firmly persuaded of God's power and promises to accomplish His will and purpose and to display such a confidence in Him and His Word that circumstances and obstacles do not shake that conviction.

The divine enablement to act on God's promises with confidence and unwavering belief in God's ability to fulfill his purposes.

People with this gift:

- believe the promises of God and inspire others to do the same

- act in complete confidence of God's ability to overcome obstacles

- demonstrate an attitude of trust in God's will and his promises

- advance the cause of Christ because they go forward when others will not

- ask God for what is needed and trust him for his provision.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

Mark 5:25-34

Acts 27:21-25

Hebrews 11

Romans 4:18-21

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Giving

Giving (Serving Gift) - The gift that enables a believer to recognize God's blessings and to respond to those blessings by generously, sacrificially, and cheerfully giving of one's resources (time, talent, and treasure) without thought of return.

The divine enablement to contribute money and resources to the work of the Lord with cheerfulness and liberality. People with this gift do not ask, "How much money do I need to give to God?" but "How much money do I need to live on?"

People with this gift:

- manage their finances and limit their lifestyle in order to give as much of their resources as possible

- support the work of ministry with sacrificial gifts to advance the Kingdom

- meet tangible needs that enable spiritual growth to occur

- provide resources, generously and cheerfully, trusting God for His provision

- may have a special ability to make money so that they may use it to further God's work.

Romans 12:6-8

2 Corinthians 9:6-15

2 Corinthians 8:2-5

Mark 12:41-44

Matthew 6:3-4

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Healing

Healing (Sign Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to serve as a human instrument through whom it pleases Him to cure illness and restore health (physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually) apart from the use of natural means.

The divine enablement to be God's means for restoring people to wholeness.

People with this gift:

- demonstrate the power of God

- bring restoration to the sick and diseased

- authenticate a message from God through healing

- use it as an opportunity to communicate a Biblical truth and to see God glorified

- pray, touch, or speak words that miraculously bring healing to one's body.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Acts 3:1-10

Acts 14:8-10

James 5:14-16

Luke 9:1-2

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Helps / Serving

Helps / Serving (Serving Gift) - The gift that enables a believer to work gladly behind the scenes in order that God's work is fulfilled. The special ability God gives to some to serve the church in a supporting roll or to invest their talents in the life and ministry of other members of the body enabling them to increase their effectiveness.

The divine enablement to accomplish practical and necessary tasks which free-up, support, and meet the needs of others.

People with this gift:

- serve behind the scenes whenever needed to support the gifts and ministries of others (without having to be asked)

- see the tangible and practical things to be done and enjoy doing them

- sense God's purpose and pleasure in meeting every day responsibilities

- attach spiritual value to practical service

- enjoy knowing that they are freeing up others to do what God has called them to do.

- would rather do a job than find someone else to do it.

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Romans 16:1-2

Acts 9:36

Mark 15:40-41

Galatians 6:2

Romans 12:6-8

1 Peter 4:11

Philippians 2:19-23

Luke 22:24-27

John 13:14

-------------------------------------------------------------------Hospitality

Hospitality (Serving Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to provide an open home and warm welcome to those in need of food, lodging, and fellowship. It involves a readiness to invite strangers to your home (or church) for the sake of the Gospel.

The divine enablement to care for people by providing fellowship, food, and shelter.

People with this gift:

- provide an environment where people feel valued and cared for

- meet new people and help them to feel welcomed

- create a safe and comfortable setting where relationships can develop

- seek ways to connect people together into meaningful relationships

- set people at ease in unfamiliar surroundings.

1 Peter 4:9-10

Romans 12:9-13

Acts 16:14-15

Luke 10:38

Hebrews 13:1-2

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Intercession / Prayer

Intercession / Prayer (Serving Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian.

The divine enablement to consistently pray on behalf of and for others, seeing frequent and specific results.

People with this gift:

- feel compelled to earnestly pray on behalf of someone or some cause

- have a daily awareness of the spiritual battles being waged and pray

- are convinced God moves in direct response to prayer

- pray in response to the leading of the spirit, whether they understand it or not

- exercise authority and power for the protection of others and the equipping of them to serve.

Ephesians 6:18

1 Timothy 2:1-2

1 Kings 13:6

Luke 11:1-10

Matthew 6:6-15

Mark 11:22-25

James 5:14-16

Colossians 4:12-13

1 Thessalonians 3:10

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Knowledge

Knowledge (Speaking Gift) - The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to understand in an exceptional way the great truths of God's Word and to make them relevant to specific situations in the church. Also, the desire to seek out and learn as much about the Bible as possible through gathering much information and the analysis of that data.

The divine enablement to bring truth to the body through a revelation or Biblical insight.

People with this gift:

- receive truth which enables them to better serve the body

- search the scriptures for insight, understanding, and truth

- gain knowledge which at times was not attained by natural means

- have an unusual insight or understanding that serves the church

- organize information for teaching and practical use.

(See also Wisdom )

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

2 Chronicles 1:7-12

Colossians 2:2-3

2 Corinthians 11:6

Daniel 2:20-21

Proverbs 2:6

Proverbs 9:10

Psalms 119:66

Jeremiah 3:15

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Leadership

Leadership (Serving Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to set goals in accordance with God's purpose and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish these goals for the glory of God.

The divine enablement to cast vision, motivate, and direct people to harmoniously accomplish the purposes of God.

People with this gift:

- provide direction for God's people or ministry

- motivate others to perform to the best of their abilities

- present the "big picture" for others to see

- model the values of the ministry

- take responsibility and establish goals.

(See also Administration )

Romans 12:6-8

Hebrews 13:7

Hebrews 13:17

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Mercy / Compassion

Mercy / Compassion (Serving Gift) - The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to feel exceptional empathy and compassion for those who are suffering (physically, mentally, or emotionally) so as to feel genuine sympathy for their misery, speaking words of compassion, but more so caring for them with acts of love that help alleviate their distress.

The divine enablement to cheerfully and practically help those who are suffering or are in need by putting compassion into action.

People with this gift:

- focus upon alleviating the sources of pain or discomfort in suffering people

- address the needs of the lonely and forgotten

- express love, grace, and dignity to those facing hardships and crisis

- serve in difficult or unsightly circumstances and do so cheerfully

- concern themselves with individual or social issues that oppress people.

Romans 12:6-8

Luke 7:12-15

Luke 10:30-37

Matthew 20:29-34

Matthew 25:34-40

Mark 9:41

Matthew 5:7

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Miracles

Miracles (Sign Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to serve as a human intermediary through whom He pleases to perform acts of supernatural power that are recognized by others to have altered the ordinary course of nature and authenticated the divine commission.

People with this gift:

- speak God's truth and may have it authenticated by an accompanying miracle

- express confidence in God's faithfulness and ability to manifest Christ's presence

- bring the ministry and message of Jesus Christ with power

- claim God to be the source of miracles and glorify the Lord

- represent Christ and through this gift, point people to a relationship with Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Mark 16:17-18

Acts 9:36-42

Acts 20:9-12

Hebrews 2:4

Romans 15:17-19

Acts 8:13

Acts 19:11-12

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Missionary

Missionary (Leadership Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to minister whatever other spiritual gifts they have in another culture.

Those with this gift find it easy or exciting to adjust to a different culture or community. Missionaries find great joy working with minorities, people of other countries, or those with other distinct cultural differences. Those with this gift have a stronger-than-average desire to be a part of the fulfillment of the Great Commission around the world.

People with this gift:

- have an intense spirit of unease at the thought of all the unsaved people in the world

- adapt themselves and core Biblical principles to different surroundings by being culturally sensitive and aware

- have the ability to reach out people groups of a different ethnicity, language, or cultural background

- can establish meaningful relationships with people of other nationalities or cultures

- desire to minister to unreached people in other communities or countries.

Ephesians 3:6-8

Mark 16:15

Acts 1:8

Acts 13:2-5

Acts 22:21

Romans 10:14-15

1 Corinthians 9:19-23

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Music

Music - The gift that gives a believer the capability to present personal witness and inspiration to others through instrumental music, singing, or dancing.

The special gift whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to praise God through music in such a way as to enhance the worship experience of other believers. It gives the believer the desire and capability to express personal faith and provide inspiration and comfort through the playing of a musical instrument, singing, or dancing. The spiritual aspect of the gift is revealed as the gift bearer gives witness to love and praise for the Lord, and thus glorifies God. Those listening or watching become inspired to feel the presence and majesty of God when music, song, or dance uplifts their soul in a manner that brings them closer to their Lord.

People with this gift:

- sing or play a musical instrument quite well, and enjoy it

- have special joy singing praises to God, either alone or with other people

- feel secure in the fact that their musical ability will be of benefit to other people with whom they come in contact

- can use their musical ability to help and inspire others to worship God

- see that their singing or instrument playing is a spiritual encouragement for others.

1 Samuel 16:14-23

1 Corinthians 14:26

Psalm 33:1-3

Psalm 96:1-2

Psalm 100:1-2

Psalm 149:3

Psalm 150:1-6

Colossians 3:16

2 Chronicles 5:12-13

2 Samuel 6:14-15

Pastor / Shepherd

Pastor / Shepherd - The special ability God gives to some to assume a long-term personal responsibility for leadership and the spiritual care, protection, guidance, and feeding (teaching) of a group of believers.

The divine enablement to nurture, care for, and guide people toward on-going spiritual maturity and becoming like Christ.

People with this gift:

- take responsibility to nurture the whole person in their walk with God

- provide guidance and oversight to a group of God's people

- model with their life what it means to be a fully devoted follower of Jesus

- establish trust and confidence through long-term relationships

- lead and protect those within their span of care.

John 10:1-16

Acts 20:28

Ephesians 4:11-15

1 Timothy 3:1-7

2 Timothy 4:1-2

1 Timothy 4:11-16

1 Peter 5:1-4

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Poverty (voluntary)

Poverty (voluntary) - The special ability God gives to some to purposely live an impoverished lifestyle to serve and aid others with their material resources.

The special ability that God gives to some members of the body of Christ to renounce material comfort and luxury and adopt a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society in order to serve God more effectively.

People with this gift:

- will often choose to live among people who are considered poverty-stricken

- live at a poverty level although they have the means to live at a higher standard

- choose this lifestyle in order to minister more effectively to people through identification.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3

2 Corinthians 8:9

Acts 2:44-45

Acts 4:32-35

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Prophet / Prophecy

Prophet / Prophecy (Special Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to proclaim the Word of God with clarity and to apply it fearlessly with a view to the strengthening, encouragement, and comfort of believers and the convincing of unbelievers. The special gift whereby the Spirit empowers certain Christians to interpret and apply God's revelation in a given situation.

The divine enablement to reveal truth and proclaim it in a timely and relevant manner for understanding, correction, repentance, or edification. There may be immediate or future implications.

People with this gift:

- expose sin or deception in others for the purpose of reconciliation

- speak a timely word from God causing conviction, repentance, and edification

- see truth that others often fail to see and challenge them to respond

- warn of God's immediate or future judgment if there is no repentance

- understand God's heart and mind through experiences He takes them through.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

Romans 12:6-8

Ephesians 4:11-13

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Deuteronomy 18:18-22

1 Corinthians 14:1-5

1 Corinthians 14:24-25

1 Corinthians 14:30-33

1 Corinthians 14:37-40

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Teaching / Teacher

Teaching / Teacher - The special ability God gives to some to explain the truths of the Word of God clearly and to apply them effectively so that those taught understand and learn. To instruct others in the Bible in a logical and systematic way so as to communicate pertinent information for true understanding and growth.

The divine enablement to understand, clearly explain, and apply the word of God causing greater Christ-likeness in the lives of listeners.

People with this gift:

- communicate Biblical truth that inspires greater obedience to the word

- challenge listeners simply and practically with the truths of scripture

- focus on changing lives by helping others understand the Bible better

- give attention to detail and accuracy

- prepare through extended times of study and reflection.

Ephesians 4:11-16

Romans 12:6-8

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

Hebrews 5:12-14

Acts 18:24-28

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Tongues (interpreting)

Tongues (interpreting) - The special ability God gives to some translate the message of one who speaks in tongues.

If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body.

People with this gift:

- express with an interpretation a word by the Spirit which edifies the Body

- enable the gift of tongues to build up the church by interpreting God's message for the people.

(see also Tongues (speaking) )

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

1 Corinthians 14:1-40

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Tongues (speaking)

Tongues (speaking) - The special ability God gives to some to speak prayer or praise in a language they have never learned or to communicate a message from God to His people. The special ability God gives to some to speak in a language not previously learned so unbelievers can hear God's message in their own language.

If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body.

People with this gift:

- may receive a spontaneous message from God which is made known to His body through the gift of interpretation

- communicate a message given by God for the church (if there is someone to interpret)

- speak in a language they have never learned and do not understand

- worship the Lord with unknown words too deep for the mind to comprehend

- experience an intimacy with God which inspires them to serve and edify others

- speak in tongues as a private prayer language

- when used in a group setting, an interpretation must take place, or else the one speaking the tongue should remain silent.

(see also Tongues (interpreting) )

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

1 Corinthians 12:28-31

1 Corinthians 14:1-40

Acts 2:1-12

Acts 10:44-46

Acts 19:1-7

Mark 16:17

Romans 8:26-27

1 Corinthians 13:1

Wisdom

Wisdom (Speaking Gift) - The gift that allows the believer to sort through opinions, facts, and thoughts in order to determine what solution would be best for the individual believer or the community of believers. The ability to apply knowledge to life in such a way as to make spiritual truths quite relevant and practical in proper decision making and daily life situations.

The special ability that God gives to certain members of the body of Christ to know the mind of the Holy Spirit in such a way as to receive insight into how knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the body of Christ.

People with this gift:

- focus on the unseen consequences in determining the next steps to take

- receive an understanding of what is necessary to meet the needs of the body

- provide divinely given solutions in the midst of conflict and confusion

- hear the Spirit provide direction for God's best in a given situation

- apply spiritual truth in specific and practical ways.

(See also Knowledge )

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

James 3:13-18

2 Chronicles 1:7-11

Acts 6:3-10

1 Corinthians 2:6-13

James 1:5-8

1 Kings 3:16-28

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Writing

Writing - the gift that gives a believer the ability to express truth in a written form; a form that can edify, instruct and strengthen the community of believers.

The special God-given ability to formulate thoughts and ideas into meaningful written forms so that the reader will find courage, guidance, knowledge, or edification through the words shared with them.

The Bible was written by people with this gift.

People with this gift:

- may write stories, sermons, devotions, histories, prayers, songs, or poetry to be used to build up the body of Christ

- may be inspired by the Holy Spirit in what they write

- may teach God's word to others through what they write

- may use writing to express other gifts

- may be better at expressing their thoughts in written form than in verbal form.

Luke 1:1-3

1 John 2:1

1 John 2:12-14

1 Timothy 3:14-15

Jude 1:3

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Leading Worship

The gift of leading worship is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to draw others into an intimate experience with God during the worship time and to allow the Holy Spirit to change directions and emphases as the service progresses

People with this gift:

-may plan worship

-preach

-Lead music in worship

-lead prayers in worship

I Samuel 16:23

I Chronicles 9:33

II Chronicles 5: 12-14