The Gifts Of The Holy Spirit (3)

Memory Verse: 1 Cor. 12:4 – Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
Scripture: 1 Cor. 12:1-11.

Introduction
Let us now look at the vocal gifts of the Hoy Spirit. They are the gift of tongues, gift of interpretation of tongues and gift of prophecy.
Diverse Tongues

This is the supernatural ability to speak other languages, not learnt by the speaker. “Tongues” here actually means languages. The gifted receives and transmits messages from God to the people in a language unknown to him. The listeners, on the other hand, often understand the language. Sometimes it is a language unknown to man. When this happens, it is described as “unknown tongues” and may need interpretation. This is different from speaking in tongues, as a sign of the baptism of the Holy Spirit like it happened in Acts 2:4 when the disciples were all united in one location and the day of Pentecost fully came and were all filled and began to speak in different languages as the spirit gave them utterance, 1 Cor.12:7-10; 1 Cor.14:2; Acts 2:7-9; Is.28:11; Mk.16:17.

Importance

These gifts help the believer pray, intercede and praise God. They are for self-edification, edification of the body of Christ and a sign to the unbelievers. Tongues are used in praise, worship, and to fulfil prophecy, 1 Cor.14:4; Is.28:11-12; Rom.8:26-27; 1Cor.14:12-15; 1Cor.14:22; Acts 10:46; Matt.16:17; Joel 2:28-29.

Operations

The scriptures give clear instructions on the use and operations of these gifts. People should speak only one at a time and wait until the speaker is done. If the language is strange to the listener, it must be accompanied by interpretation or the speaker should keep quiet and pray for the gift of interpretation of tongues. The speaker can control the gift. As much as possible, order must be maintained in the assembly in the use and administration of all gifts, 1 Cor.12:30; 1 Cor.14:28; 1 Cor.12:13; 1 Cor.14:18-19; 1 Cor.14:27; 1 Cor.14:39-40; 1 Cor.14:32-33.

Conclusion

God is always willing to give. He is the greatest giver of all time who in an act of supreme love gave His only begotten Son so that you and I will not perish but have everlasting life, Jn. 3:16. Your heart has to be right to receive and serve. Remember that the gift of the prophet is subject to the authority and control of the prophet. Confusion, disorder and unruliness all have a common author and it is not God. You will exercise restraint and control in all situations in the mighty name of Jesus.