The Gifts of the Spirit: Use and Misuse
A study on the gifts of the Spirit, their proper use, and potential for misuse.
1. Understanding Spiritual Gifts
1.1 Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:7; 1 Peter 4:10
- Gifts are manifestations of the Spirit's power working through believers.
- They are given to profit all, not for personal aggrandizement.
1.2 Diversity of Gifts
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:11; Romans 12:6-8
- The Spirit distributes gifts individually as He wills.
- Not all believers will have the same gifts.
2. Examples of Spiritual Gifts
2.1 Speaking in Tongues
Verses: Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 14:22; 1 Corinthians 14:4
- Speaking in tongues is a supernatural utterance in a language not learned by the speaker.
- It serves as a sign for unbelievers and for personal edification.
2.2 Prophecy
Verses: 1 Corinthians 14:3; 1 Corinthians 14:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21
- Prophecy is a divinely inspired utterance that edifies, exhorts, and comforts.
- It should be judged and weighed by other believers.
2.3 Discerning of Spirits
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1 John 4:1
- Discerning of spirits is the ability to distinguish between the true Spirit of God and other spirits.
- It is crucial for protecting the church from deception.
3. Potential Misuses of Spiritual Gifts
3.1 Pride and Self-Promotion
Verses: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Philippians 2:3
- Using gifts to draw attention to oneself rather than to glorify God.
- Seeking gifts for selfish ambition or pride.
3.2 Neglecting or Suppressing Gifts
Verses: 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6
- Neglecting to use the gifts God has given.
- Failing to cultivate and develop one's spiritual gifts.
3.3 Division and Competition
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:14-26; Romans 12:16
- Judging or despising those with different gifts.
- Creating division and strife within the church.
4. Cultivating and Using Gifts Properly
4.1 Seeking Spiritual Gifts
Verses: 1 Corinthians 14:1; Luke 11:13
- Desire spiritual gifts earnestly, especially prophecy.
- Pray for the manifestation of the Spirit's power in your life.
4.2 Using Gifts in Love
Verses: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; 1 Corinthians 14:26
- Use your gifts in love and humility.
- Seek to edify and build up the body of Christ.
4.3 Accountability and Submission
Verses: Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:5
- Submit to spiritual leadership and accountability.
- Be open to correction and guidance from mature believers.