Perspective: Seeing Spiritual Gifts Properly

Gifts are spiritual endowments designed for miraculous results. To fully understand and utilize them, we must not be ignorant of God’s plan, His spiritual gifts, the second coming of Christ, or the conduct of a disciple. Spiritual ignorance can cloud the mysteries of God with materialistic or superstitious perspectives, distorting our understanding.

The Holy Spirit’s role is central, coming to testify of and glorify Christ. Every spiritual gift should promote Jesus Christ, not personal gain, and is meant to equip believers in service to God and others.

God has given diverse gifts and ministries—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—to build strong, mended disciples who reach their full potential and fulfill their unique callings. Ephesians and Corinthians affirm that while gifts vary, they come from the same Spirit and serve His pleasure.

Spiritual gifts fall into three categories: gifts of revelation (wisdom, knowledge, discerning spirits), gifts of power (faith, miracles, healing), and gifts of inspiration (prophecy, tongues, interpretation of tongues). Each one is essential for the growth of the body, encouraging believers to value others’ gifts and recognize the Holy Spirit’s distribution according to His will.

In embracing our gifts and recognizing those of others, we move toward unity, achieving the purpose for which God has designed us: to glorify Christ, build His Church, and equip believers to serve. The diversity of gifts ultimately works to build a stronger, unified body, fulfilling the Spirit’s purpose and leading us toward full completion in Christ.