The Gifts Of The Holy Spirit (I)

Memory Verse: “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:8).

Bible Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:1-10

Introduction
LET us now look at the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as opposed to the ministry gifts of the Holy Spirit, which we have been examining. The ministry gifts are for the body of Christ while the gifts of the Holy Spirit are more of a personal endowment. Both are from the same Holy Spirit. There are nine gifts set out in 1 Cor. 12:8-10 usually divided into three groups: the revelation gifts (word of wisdom, word of knowledge and discerning of spirits); inspirational gifts (prophecy, divers kinds of tongues and the interpretation of tongues); power gifts (faith, healing and working of miracles).

What Are They?

They are special impartations of the Holy Spirit, meant to confirm the divine source of our message with signs and wonders. Every true follower of Christ can be gifted. Again the flesh can get in the way and cause perversion. The said gifts are largely personal and somewhat permanent. Are you thirsty enough? You can receive yours today by faith and fervent prayer. 1 Cor.12:8-10; 1 Cor.2:4; Jn.14:12; Rom.12:3-8; Heb.2:3-4; Jn.15:7, 16; Eph.3:19; Rom.15:29; Eccl.2:9; 1 Cor.13:1-3; Rom.11:29; 1 Tim.4:14; 2 Tim.1:16.

How To Receive

Anyone who wants them must first and foremost be genuinely saved, live Holy and be thirsty. Do not merely imitate those who are already gifted. Rather, yield your entire being to the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, a believer finds out that he has the gift(s) only by a dramatic unexpected expression and manifestation. For others, it could be more “normal”: Mk.16:17-20; 1 Cor.12:31; Jn.15:17; Jn.7:37-39; 2 Tim.1:6; 1Tim.4:14.

Conclusion

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are for all thirsty, true believers. Like all spiritual matters, they are received by faith. Ask, even now, and you will find out that indeed the Lord does not change and is not a respecter of persons (1 Cor.1:7; 2 Thess.2:6-8). Remember that you have to ask to receive, seek to find and knock for the door to be opened unto you (Matt 7:7-8). The generous Holy One of Israel will bless you with one or more of gifts at His pleasure in the name of Jesus.