Understanding the Spiritual Gifts

Overview

Throughout the New Testament, the apostles teach that every believer is given spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. These gifts are diverse, yet unified by their divine origin and ultimate goal: glorifying God and serving others. This post provides an organized overview of the spiritual gifts mentioned in Scripture, ordered canonically for clarity and depth.

Spiritual Gifts in Romans 12:6-8

Paul begins his discussion of spiritual gifts by emphasizing humility and unity in the body. In Romans 12, he lists gifts that are practical and relational, calling believers to use them diligently and sincerely.

1. Prophecy (Romans 12:6)
   Speaking messages from God that align with faith and truth.
2. Serving (Ministry) (Romans 12:7)
   Meeting practical needs in the church and community.
3. Teaching (Romans 12:7)
   Explaining and instructing others in God’s truth.
4. Encouragement (Exhortation) (Romans 12:8)
   Motivating and strengthening others in faith.
5. Giving (Generosity) (Romans 12:8)
   Sharing resources freely and cheerfully.
6. Leadership (Administration) (Romans 12:8)
   Guiding others with diligence and care.
7. Mercy (Romans 12:8)
   Showing compassion to the hurting with joy and grace.

Spiritual Gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:8–10, 28–30

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians presents the most detailed and charismatic listing of spiritual gifts, emphasizing both their variety and the unity they bring to the body.

1. Word of Wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8)
   Divinely inspired insight into practical application.
2. Word of Knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8)
   Supernatural understanding of divine truth.
3. Faith (1 Corinthians 12:9)
   An extraordinary confidence in God’s power and promises.
4. Gifts of Healing (1 Corinthians 12:9)
   Supernatural restoration of physical or emotional health.
5. Miraculous Powers (1 Corinthians 12:10)
   Works that demonstrate God’s supernatural intervention.
6. Prophecy (1 Corinthians 12:10)
   A repeated gift, showing its wide importance across churches.
7. Distinguishing Between Spirits (1 Corinthians 12:10)
   The ability to discern spiritual influences.
8. Speaking in Tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10)
   Spirit-empowered speech in unknown languages.
9. Interpretation of Tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10)
   Translating the message spoken in tongues.
10. Apostleship (1 Corinthians 12:28)
    Foundational leadership and missionary calling.
11. Teaching (1 Corinthians 12:28)
    A repeated emphasis on the importance of instruction.
12. Helping (Helps) (1 Corinthians 12:28)
    Supporting others in their ministry with faithfulness.
13. Guidance (Administration) (1 Corinthians 12:28)
    Managing church affairs with divine insight.

Spiritual Gifts in Ephesians 4:11

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul focuses on leadership roles as gifts from Christ to the Church to equip believers for ministry and build unity.

1. Apostles (Ephesians 4:11)
   Sent ones who pioneer, plant churches, and guide doctrine.
2. Prophets (Ephesians 4:11)
   Those who declare God’s message and reveal His heart.
3. Evangelists (Ephesians 4:11)
   Gifted in sharing the gospel and bringing others to Christ.
4. Pastors (Shepherds) (Ephesians 4:11)
   Caring for and guiding the spiritual lives of others.
5. Teachers (Ephesians 4:11)
   Instructing believers in sound doctrine and practice.

Spiritual Gifts in 1 Peter 4:10–11

Peter offers a simplified framework: speaking and serving. He reminds believers that all gifts are from God and should glorify Him.

1. Speaking (1 Peter 4:11)
   Communicating God’s truth with clarity and boldness.
2. Serving (1 Peter 4:11)
   Meeting the needs of others with God’s strength.

Recognizing and Using Your Gifts

While not every believer will operate in all of these gifts, every believer has at least one (1 Corinthians 12:7). Discerning your gift(s) often begins with prayer, biblical study, and feedback from other believers. Gifts may align with natural abilities but are empowered by the Spirit for divine purposes.

To determine your spiritual gifts, ask yourself the following questions:

• What stirs my heart when I serve others?
• What do others affirm in me?
• Where do I see fruit when I step out in faith?

Remember, gifts are given not for personal glory, but for the edification of the Church and the advancement of God’s Kingdom.

Conclusion

Spiritual gifts are a rich part of the Christian life, demonstrating God’s wisdom in equipping His people uniquely. Whether your gift is speaking, serving, leading, healing, or encouraging, you have a role in God’s mission. Study the Scriptures, seek the Lord, and walk boldly in what He has entrusted to you.

Acknowledgements

This article was inspired by Pastor Ryan Bordner of Sperry Christian Church, whose teaching during the July 13, 2025 Sunday School class prompted a deeper study into the spiritual gifts described in the New Testament. His faithful exposition and encouragement to explore Scripture more intentionally played a key role in the formation of this post.