'Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body— whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be? But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.'
Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the purpose of serving God, building up the church, and advancing His kingdom. They are not natural talents (though God can use those too) but supernatural empowerments for spiritual purposes.
In 1 Corinthians 12:1, Paul says he does not want believers to be “uninformed” about spiritual gifts, indicating their importance for the Christian life.
Every believer receives at least one gift from the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:7, 11; 1 Peter 4:10), and these gifts are given to glorify God, not to elevate ourselves.
All spiritual gifts come from the Holy Spirit, who distributes them “as He determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11). They are rooted in the triune God: the same Spirit, Lord (Jesus), and God (the Father) work together (1 Corinthians 12:4–6).
Gifts are given “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7), meaning they are meant to serve others, strengthen the church, and reflect God’s love and power. They are not for personal pride or gain. (The Corinthian church misused gifts like tongues, causing division and pride. Paul corrects this by emphasizing unity and love (1 Corinthians 12:31–13:1.)
Think of spiritual gifts like tools in a toolbox. Each tool has a unique purpose (a hammer for nails, a screwdriver for screws), but they all work together to build something bigger.
Paul lists several gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:8–10:
Word of Wisdom: Applying God’s truth to complex situations.
Greek: logos sophias: “Logos” (Strong’s #3056, from the root legō, meaning “to speak” or “to say”) refers to a word, message, utterance, or reasoned discourse. “Sophias” (Strong’s #4678, from sophos, meaning “wise” or “skilled”) denotes wisdom, insight, or practical understanding, often implying divine or supernatural cleverness. Together, it literally means “a message of wisdom” or “an utterance of insight.”
This gift involves supernaturally applying God’s wisdom to specific situations. It’s not just being smart or wise in a general sense, it’s like getting a nudge from God to say or do the right thing at the right time, in a way that helps others and shows God’s love or truth.
This gift is described as the “word” of wisdom indicates that it is one of the speaking gifts. This gift describes someone who can understand and speak forth biblical truth in such a way as to skillfully apply it to life situations with all discernment.
The Bible says this gift is given “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). That means it’s not about making you look clever; it’s about helping others, strengthening faith, or bringing people closer to God. In the church in Corinth, people were arguing and showing off their abilities. Paul wanted them to see that gifts like the word of wisdom are about serving others, not boosting egos.
Regular wisdom comes from experience, study, or common sense. For example, learning to budget your money wisely comes from practice or advice. The word of wisdom is a special moment when the Holy Spirit gives you a specific insight or solution you wouldn’t have thought of on your own. It’s like God stepping in to guide you for His purposes.
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13 that love is the key, so using this gift should always come from a heart of caring for others.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| 1 Kings 3:16-28 | Two women both claimed a baby was theirs, and King Solomon had to decide who was telling the truth. He suggested cutting the baby in half, knowing the real mother would rather give up her child than see it harmed. When one woman agreed to let the other have the baby, Solomon knew she was the true mother. This wasn’t just Solomon being clever—it was God giving him a wise idea to reveal the truth and bring justice. |
| Matthew 22:15-22 | Some people tried to trick Jesus by asking if it was okay to pay taxes to the Roman emperor. If He said “yes,” He’d upset the Jews; if He said “no,” He’d get in trouble with the Romans. Jesus said, “Show me a coin,” and pointed out the emperor’s picture on it. Then He said, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This was a brilliant, God-inspired answer that avoided the trap and taught a deeper truth about balancing earthly and spiritual duties. |
Word of Knowledge: Supernatural insight into facts or truths.
Greek: logos gnōseōs: “Logos” (Strong’s #3056, as above) means a word, message, or utterance. “Gnōseōs” (Strong’s #1108, from ginōskō, meaning “to know” or “to perceive”) refers to knowledge, understanding, or factual insight, emphasizing experiential or revealed awareness. Together, it literally means “a message of knowledge” or “an utterance of understanding.”
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, where God reveals specific information or facts about a person, situation, or truth that you couldn’t know on your own. It’s like God giving you a piece of His knowledge at just the right moment to help someone, encourage the church, or show His power and care.
Word of Knowledge is also a speaking gift: It is simply the Holy Spirit downloading His specific knowledge to us on something that we would have no natural ability to know through our own knowledge. It is supernatural insight being given directly to us by the Holy Spirit Himself.
The Holy Spirit can impart a word of knowledge to cover anything from something very trivial, such as where you may have misplaced your keys, to actual life-saving knowledge on how to solve an impending crisis or emergency.
It’s also not about making you seem psychic or super-smart; it’s about helping people, strengthening the church, or showing God’s love and presence.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| John 4:16–19 | Jesus met a woman at a well and started talking to her about spiritual things. Then He said, “Go, call your husband,” and when she said she didn’t have one, He replied, “You’re right—you’ve had five husbands, and the man you’re with now isn’t your husband.” The woman was shocked and said, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet.” |
| Acts 5:1–11 | A couple named Ananias and Sapphira sold some land and pretended to give all the money to the church, but they secretly kept some for themselves. Peter confronted Ananias, saying, “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit? You have not lied to man but to God.” He knew they were lying, and God judged them for their deceit. |
Faith: Extraordinary trust in God for His provision or action.
Greek: pistis: “Pistis” (Strong’s #4102, from peithō, meaning “to persuade” or “to convince”) denotes faith, trust, belief, or faithfulness, often implying active reliance on God rather than passive assent.
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, where God gives you an extraordinary, rock-solid trust in Him to do something big or impossible in a specific situation. This is a turbo-charged, supernatural confidence that God will come through in a particular moment, often leading to amazing outcomes like miracles or bold actions.
It’s not the same as the everyday faith all Christians have to believe in Jesus, we see this general faith described in Ephesians 2:8–9.
Galatians chapter 5 talks about another kind of faith: the fruit of faith or faithfulness. This is a fruit of the Spirit, which grows in the life of a Christian to establish him in spiritual character.
Regular faith is the trust every Christian has to believe in Jesus, follow God, or pray for help. It’s like the steady trust you have that God loves you.
The gift of faith is a special, momentary boost of confidence from the Holy Spirit for a specific situation. It’s like God saying, “I’m going to do this, and I’m giving you the faith to believe it now.” It often leads to bold prayers, actions, or miracles that encourage others.
The gift of faith is exciting because it shows God is alive and active, giving you the courage to trust Him for big things. It’s like a spark that lights up hope in others, too.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Matthew 8:5–13 | A Roman centurion came to Jesus, asking Him to heal his paralyzed servant. When Jesus offered to come to his house, the centurion said, “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed,” believing Jesus had authority to heal from a distance. Jesus was amazed, saying, “I have not found such great faith even in Israel!” (v. 10). The servant was healed instantly. |
| Genesis 22:1–18; Romans 4:18–21 | God promised Abraham a son, Isaac, through whom He would build a great nation. But years later, God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham trusted God so deeply that he obeyed, believing God could even raise Isaac from the dead if needed (Hebrews 11:19). At the last moment, God provided a ram instead, and Abraham’s faith was rewarded. |
Gifts of Healing: Facilitating physical, emotional, or spiritual healing through prayer.
Greek: charismata iamatōn: “Charismata” (Strong’s #5486, from charis, meaning “grace” or “favor”) refers to gracious gifts or endowments. “Iamatōn” (Strong’s #2386, from iaomai, meaning “to heal” or “to cure”) denotes healings or restorations. Together, it literally means “gracious gifts of healings,” with the plural emphasizing various instances or types.
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, allowing them to pray for or facilitate healing, physical, emotional, or spiritual, in a way that shows God’s power and love. It’s not about being a doctor or having medical skills; it’s about God working through you to bring restoration to someone who’s hurting, often in a supernatural way.
Regular healing comes from medicine, rest, or the body’s natural processes. For example, a doctor prescribing medicine for a cold is regular healing.
The gifts of healing are supernatural, where God steps in through a person’s prayer or action to bring healing that goes beyond natural means. It might be instant, dramatic, or unexplainable, like a disease disappearing after prayer.
Just like any of the others, you don’t need to be a pastor or elder to be bestowed this gift.
Simply put, the spiritual gift of healing is the supernatural manifestation of the Spirit of God that miraculously brings healing and deliverance from disease and/or infirmity.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Acts 3:1–10 | Peter and John were going to the temple when they saw a man who’d been lame from birth, begging at the gate. Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” He helped the man up, and instantly his legs were healed. The man jumped up, walked, and praised God, amazing everyone around. |
| John 9:1–7 | Jesus saw a man blind from birth, and His disciples asked why he was blind. Jesus said it was so God’s works could be displayed. He made mud with His spit, put it on the man’s eyes, and told him to wash in a pool. When the man did, he could see for the first time. People were amazed, and it sparked faith and discussion about Jesus. |
Working of Miracles: Performing supernatural acts that glorify God.
Greek: energēmata dynameōn: “Energēmata” (Strong’s #1755, from energeō, meaning “to work” or “to be effective”) refers to workings, operations, or effects. “Dynameōn” (Strong’s #1411, from dynamis, meaning “power” or “might”) denotes powers, abilities, or miraculous deeds. Together, it literally means “operations of powers” or “workings of miracles.”
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, allowing them to perform or be part of supernatural acts—things that go beyond natural laws, like miracles of provision, protection, or divine intervention. These acts show God’s power in a big way, often leaving people in awe and pointing them to Him.
Regular events happen through natural means, like getting a job after applying or recovering from a cold with rest.
The gift of healing focuses specifically on restoring health, like curing a disease or mending a broken heart.
The gift of working of miracles is broader, covering any supernatural act that shows God’s power, like multiplying food, stopping a storm, or providing resources in an impossible situation. It’s about God breaking the rules of nature to do something amazing.
You pray during a drought, and rain suddenly falls, saving crops in a way that feels miraculous and strengthens your community’s faith.
It’s like a glimpse of His power breaking into our world, reminding us He’s in control.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| 1 Kings 18:30–39 | The prophet Elijah faced off against false prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. To show who the true God was, Elijah built an altar, soaked it with water, and prayed. Fire fell from heaven, burning up the sacrifice, water, and even the stones. The people shouted, “The Lord, He is God!” and turned back to Him. |
| John 6:5–14 | A huge crowd followed Jesus, but they had no food. With only five loaves and two fish from a boy, Jesus prayed, and the food multiplied to feed thousands, with leftovers. The people were amazed, recognizing Jesus’ power. |
Prophecy: Speaking God’s message to encourage, warn, or guide.
Greek: prophēteia: “Prophēteia” (Strong’s #4394, from prophētēs, combining pro meaning “before” or “forth” and phēmi meaning “to speak”) refers to prophecy, inspired declaration, or speaking forth God’s message.3
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, allowing them to speak a message from God that encourages, strengthens, or guides others. It is about sharing God’s truth or perspective in a way that helps people grow closer to Him or understand His will.
Simple example: You’re praying with friends, and one of them is worried about a big decision, like choosing a job. As you pray, you feel prompted to say, “I believe God is saying to trust Him and take the step you’re scared of—He’s got a plan.” Your friend feels peace and clarity, and later they find out the job was exactly where God wanted them.
Prophecy is calling things as they should be, in Genesis 1:1-3, it states darkness hovered over the face of the earth, it took no gift to see the darkness, But God didn’t call out the darkness, God said let there be light, he called things as they should be.
Prophecy is to change perspective.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Acts 21:8–9 | When Paul visited Philip the evangelist, Philip’s four daughters were described as having the gift of prophecy. Though the Bible doesn’t give details of their messages, their prophetic role suggests they spoke God’s words to encourage or guide the early church. |
| Acts 15:32 | The verse says they “encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.” |
Discerning of Spirits: Distinguishing between true and false spiritual influences.
Greek: diakriseis pneumatōn: “Diakriseis” (Strong’s #1253, from diakrinō, meaning “to separate,” “judge,” or “discern”) denotes distinctions, judgments, or discernments. “Pneumatōn” (Strong’s #4151, from pneuma, meaning “spirit,” “breath,” or “wind”) refers to spirits, whether divine, human, or demonic. Together, it literally means “discernments of spirits” or “distinguishing of spirits.”
This is about carefully sorting out or judging between things to see what’s true or right & This refers human spirits (motives or attitudes), or evil spirits (demonic forces).
The Holy Spirit gives you the ability to “see through” a situation and recognize whether it’s inspired by God, human intentions, or something dark, to keep people safe and aligned with God’s truth.
Simple Example: As you pray, you sense it’s not from the Holy Spirit but from their own pride or agenda. You gently suggest testing the message against the Bible, and others realize it doesn’t line up. That’s the gift of discerning of spirits: God giving you a spiritual sense to spot what’s genuine and what’s not, so the group stays on track.
Regular judgment comes from your own reasoning, experience, or gut feeling. For example, noticing someone’s shady behavior because of their body language is human judgment.
The gift of discerning of spirits is supernatural, where the Holy Spirit gives you insight into the spiritual source behind something; whether it’s God’s Spirit, a human motive, or a demonic influence. It’s about seeing what’s happening in the spiritual realm, not just the physical.
It protects people from deception, keeps the church focused on God’s truth, and helps you navigate tricky situations.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Matthew 16:21–23 | Jesus told His disciples He would suffer and die. Peter, meaning well, said, “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!” Jesus responded, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” |
| Acts 16:16–18 | A slave girl followed Paul, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” Her words were true, but Paul discerned she was possessed by a demonic spirit (a “spirit of divination”). After days, he commanded the spirit to leave in Jesus’ name, and she was set free. |
Tongues: Speaking in an unknown language for prayer or worship, often requiring interpretation.
Greek: genē glōssōn: “Genē” (Strong’s #1085, from genos, meaning “kind,” “sort,” or “race”) refers to kinds, varieties, or genera. “Glōssōn” (Strong’s #1100, from glōssa, meaning “tongue” or “language”) denotes tongues or languages, human or heavenly. Together, it literally means “kinds of tongues” or “varieties of languages.”
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, allowing them to speak in a language they don’t naturally know—sometimes a human language, sometimes a spiritual or heavenly one (1 Corinthians 13:1).
This gift is often used for prayer, worship, or delivering a message from God, but when used publicly, it typically needs someone with the gift of interpretation (1 Corinthians 12:10) to explain it so others can understand.
Paul explains that tongues are valuable but should be used orderly, often with interpretation, to build up the church, not just the person speaking (1 Corinthians 14:4–5). He also says it’s a sign for unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22), showing God’s power.
Regular speaking or learning a language comes from study or practice, like taking Spanish classes.
The gift of tongues is supernatural, where the Holy Spirit gives you words or a language you haven’t learned, often for worship, prayer, or a message that needs interpretation. It’s God-inspired, not human effort.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Acts 2:1–11 | On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit filled the disciples, and they began speaking in “other tongues.” People from many countries heard them speaking in their own languages (like Parthian, Median, or Egyptian), praising God’s works. The crowd was amazed, and some believed in Jesus because of this miracle. |
| Acts 10:44–46 | Peter preached to Cornelius, a Gentile, and his household. As they believed, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they began “speaking in tongues and praising God.” The Jewish believers with Peter were amazed that Gentiles received this gift, confirming God’s acceptance of them. |
Interpretation of Tongues: Translating a message in tongues for the church’s benefit.
Greek: hermēneia glōssōn: “Hermēneia” (Strong’s #2058, from hermēneuō, meaning “to interpret,” “explain,” or “translate”) refers to interpretation, explanation, or translation. “Glōssōn” (Strong’s #1100, as above) means tongues or languages. Together, it literally means “interpretation of tongues” or “translation of languages.”
It’s a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to a Christian, allowing you to understand and explain the meaning of a message spoken in tongues—a language (human or spiritual) that the speaker doesn’t naturally know. This gift turns the mysterious words of tongues into a clear message that helps others, making it understandable and useful for the church.
This gift makes tongues useful for everyone, turning an expression into a shared blessing.
Regular translation comes from knowing a language through study or experience, like translating Spanish to English because you learned Spanish.
Regular understanding is when you figure out what someone means using your own reasoning.
The gift of interpretation of tongues is supernatural, where the Holy Spirit gives you the meaning of a tongue you don’t know, whether it’s a human language or a spiritual one. It’s God revealing the message to help others.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Acts 2:1–11 | On the day of Pentecost, the disciples spoke in tongues, and people from many countries heard them praising God in their own languages (like Parthian or Egyptian). The crowd understood the message, which led many to faith in Jesus. |
| 1 Corinthians 14:5, 13, 27–28 | Paul says, “I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified” (1 Corinthians 14:5, NIV). He also instructs that if someone speaks in tongues publicly, they should pray for interpretation, or an interpreter should be present (1 Corinthians 14:13, 27–28). |
Paul lists several more gifts in1 Corinthians 12:28:
| I Corinthians 12:27-31 | ‘Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.’ |
God assigns roles like a coach picking positions. The order shows priority, but all are valuable.
Apostles
Sent ones who establish churches or ministries.
The term “apostle” in English refers to a person who is sent out as a messenger, delegate, or ambassador, often with a specific mission or authority.
It typically describes someone commissioned by God to spread the gospel, establish churches, or act as a foundational leader in the faith. This role emphasizes being an envoy or representative, carrying out tasks on behalf of the sender, such as preaching, performing miracles, or providing authoritative teaching.
The Greek word for apostle is ἀπόστολος (transliterated as apostolos). It derives from the roots apo (meaning “from” or “away from”) and stello (meaning “to send” or “to dispatch”), so it literally means “one who is sent forth” or “one sent out with a commission.”
In ancient Greek usage, it could refer to a secular envoy, such as a naval fleet commander or business representative sent on official duties, but in the New Testament, it takes on a spiritual dimension as an ambassador of the Gospel or a divinely appointed commissioner with miraculous powers.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Matthew 10:2–4, Mark 3:16–19, Luke 6:14–16 | The Bible mentions several individuals as apostles, primarily in the New Testament. The most prominent are the original Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus during his ministry, as listed in the Gospels. |
| 1 Corinthians 9:1; Galatians 1:1 | Paul (formerly Saul): Called himself an apostle after a vision of the risen Christ; a key missionary and author of many epistles. |
| Acts 14:14. | Barnabas: Paul’s companion; is called an apostle. |
| Galatians 1:19 | James (Jesus’ brother): Not one of the Twelve but recognized as an apostle |
Prophets
Those who regularly speak God’s truth to His people.
A prophet is a person God calls and equips to regularly speak His messages, often with a specific role or ministry in the church or community. A prophet consistently operates in the gift of prophecy, delivering God’s words to guide, warn, or encourage, sometimes with authority to speak to larger groups and even nations.
The Greek word for prophet is προφήτης (transliterated as prophētēs, pronounced pro-FAY-tace). It comes from two roots: pro (meaning “before” or “forth”) and phēmi (meaning “to speak” or “to declare”). Literally, it means “one who speaks forth” or “one who speaks before [others] on behalf of another” (i.e., God).
In the New Testament, a prophet is someone inspired by the Holy Spirit to deliver God’s message, which might include foretelling future events (like Agabus predicting a famine in Acts 11:28) or encouraging and exhorting the church (1 Corinthians 14:3). The term is implying the prophet as being a spokesperson or intermediary for God, often with a focus on moral or spiritual guidance rather than just prediction.
Any prophetic word must align with Scripture (1 John 4:1; Deuteronomy 13:1–5). If someone claims to be a prophet, their message should be evaluated humbly and carefully.
Longer teaching on walking as a prophet people at CrystalThomasMinistry.com
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
- Old Testament
| Moses | Often called the greatest prophet (Deuteronomy 34:10), he spoke directly with God and delivered the Law to Israel. |
| Isaiah | Prophesied about the coming Messiah (Isaiah 7:14, 53); his book is one of the longest prophetic works. |
| Jeremiah | Known as the “weeping prophet,” he warned Judah of coming judgment and exile (Jeremiah 1:5). |
| Elijah | Performed miracles and confronted idolatry (1 Kings 18); later appeared with Jesus at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:3). |
| Deborah | A judge and prophetess who led Israel and gave God’s guidance in battle (Judges 4:4–7). |
- New Testament
| John the Baptist | The last Old Testament-style prophet, preparing the way for Jesus (Matthew 3:1–3; Luke 1:76). He called people to repentance and pointed to Jesus as the Messiah. |
| Agabus | A New Testament prophet who predicted a famine and Paul’s arrest (Acts 11:28, 21:10–11). |
| Anna | A prophetess who recognized baby Jesus as the Messiah and spoke about Him (Luke 2:36–38). |
| Unnamed Prophets in the Early Church | 1 Corinthians 14:29–32 mentions prophets speaking in church meetings, suggesting it was a common role for delivering Spirit-inspired messages. |
Teachers
Those who explain and apply Scripture clearly.
In English, a “teacher” in the biblical context refers to someone who instructs others in the truths of God’s Word, helping them understand and apply Scripture to their lives.
The Greek word for teacher is διδάσκαλος (transliterated as didaskalos, pronounced dih-DAS-kah-los). It comes from the verb didaskō (to teach or instruct) and means “one who teaches” or “instructor.”
In the New Testament, didaskalos is used for those who teach with authority, often about spiritual or moral matters. For example, Jesus is frequently called didaskalos (e.g., John 13:13–14, where He accepts the title “Teacher and Lord”). In the early church, teachers had a role distinct from apostles (who founded churches) and prophets (who spoke inspired messages), focusing on systematic instruction to build up the community’s understanding (Ephesians 4:11; Acts 13:1).
Teachers explain doctrine, clarify biblical principles, and guide the church in living out God’s teachings. Unlike prophets, who may receive direct divine revelations, teachers focus on interpreting and communicating existing revelation (scripture) clearly and accurately.
James 3:1 warns that teachers are held to a higher standard, as their words influence others. They should be mature, knowledgeable, and humble.
Any teaching must align with Scripture (Acts 17:11). If a teacher’s message contradicts the Bible, it should be questioned.
Teachers are vital for helping the church understand and live out God’s Word, both in the Bible and today. They differ from apostles and prophets by focusing on instruction and application of Scripture.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Jesus Christ | Frequently addressed as didaskalos (Teacher) by His disciples and others (e.g., Matthew 8:19; John 13:13). He taught with authority through parables, sermons (like the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5–7), and explanations of Scripture, setting the ultimate example of teaching. |
| Paul | While primarily an apostle, Paul also functioned as a teacher, instructing churches through his epistles and personal ministry. In Acts 18:11, he spent a year and a half in Corinth “teaching the word of God.” He describes himself as a “teacher of the Gentiles” in 1 Timothy 2:7. |
| Apollos | Described as an eloquent man “competent in the Scriptures” who taught about Jesus accurately in Ephesus and Corinth (Acts 18:24–26). Priscilla and Aquila helped refine his teaching, showing the collaborative nature of this role. |
Helping
Serving others through practical acts.
The Greek word translated as “helping” in this verse is ἀντιλήμψεις (transliterated as antilēmpseis, pronounced an-tee-LAYMP-sace). This is a noun, accusative plural feminine, derived from the verb antilambanō, which means “to take hold of in turn” or “to help, support, or assist.” The root anti (meaning “in place of” or “for”) and lambanō (meaning “to take or receive”) suggest a reciprocal or active engagement in supporting others, as if taking hold of their burdens to relieve them.
Helping is a gift that involves tangible acts of service, often focused on meeting physical or emotional needs to support the church or others. It’s less about public leadership (like apostles or teachers) and more about humble, practical contributions.
Helpers serve without seeking recognition, as the gift is about others’ benefit, not personal glory (Matthew 6:1–4).
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| The Seven Deacons: Acts 6:1–6 | When Greek-speaking Jewish Christians complained that their widows were neglected in food distribution, the apostles appointed seven men (e.g., Stephen, Philip) to serve tables and ensure fair care. This practical service allowed the apostles to focus on prayer and preaching, illustrating “helping” as meeting tangible needs. |
| Dorcas: Acts 9:36–39 | A disciple in Joppa known for her good works, Dorcas made clothes for widows and the poor. Her acts of charity and sewing reflect the gift of helping through practical, compassionate service. |
Administration
Leading or organizing church activities effectively.
In English, “administration” typically suggests organizing, managing, or overseeing tasks to ensure things run smoothly. Here, “administration” refers to a spiritual gift that involves leading, guiding, or managing the church’s activities to promote order and effective ministry.The Greek word translated as “administration” in this verse is κυβερνήσεις (transliterated as kybernēseis, pronounced koo-ber-NAY-sace). This is a noun, accusative plural feminine, derived from the verb kybernaō, which means “to steer, guide, or govern.” The term originally referred to a ship’s pilot or helmsman who steers the vessel, ensuring it stays on course.
Individuals with this gift excel at structuring activities, creating systems, and developing strategies to accomplish tasks efficiently. They are skilled at allocating resources (time, finances, personnel) to maximize their impact.
This suggest that most pastors should operate in this gift, but it is not limited to pastors, or any of the other 5-fold.
Biblical Examples: (not full list)
| Joeseph | In Genesis, Joseph’s ability to manage Egypt’s resources during the famine demonstrates administrative skills. |
| Nehemiah | Nehemiah’s leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls highlights his organizational and planning abilities. |
Prophecy VS Prophet
| Aspect | Prophecy | Prophet |
| Definition | An act or message from God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, for a specific moment.” | A person called by God to regularly speak His messages as a role or ministry. |
| Scope | A single event or message; anyone with the gift can prophesy – 1 Corinthians 14:31 | A consistent calling or role; not everyone who prophesies is a prophet. |
| Frequency | Can be a one-time or occasional act when the Spirit prompts. | Involves ongoing use of prophecy, often as part of a broader ministry. |
| Purpose | To encourage, strengthen, or guide others – 1 Corinthians 14:3. | To serve as God’s spokesperson, often with leadership or authority in the church. |
| Who Can Do It? | Any Christian can receive the gift of prophecy when the Spirit gives it – 1 Corinthians 12:11 | A prophet is specifically chosen by God for a recognized role – Ephesians 4:11. |
Gifts also appear in Romans 12:6–8 and Ephesians 4:11
| Romans 12:6-8 | ‘Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.’ |
| Ephesians 4:11-12 | ‘And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, ‘ |
DIVERSITY & UNITY OF THE GIFTS
| Verses 4-6 | There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: |
The gifts are diverse, the ministries are different, and the activities are diverse. But it is all the same Spirit, the same Lord, the same God doing the work through the gifts, the ministries, and the activities.
The Greek word for activities is energemata, where we get our words energy, energetic, and energize from. It is a word of active, miraculous power. Activities is the same word as working in 1 Corinthians 12:10 (the working of miracles). Differences of activities means that God displays and pours out His miraculous power in different ways, but it is always the same God doing the work.
Some gifts are ministries – standing offices or positions in the church. Some gifts are activities – miraculous events or outpourings at a particular time and place.
The Spirit decides who receives which gift (1 Cor. 12:11).
| Verses 29-30 | Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.’ |
God distributes gifts and callings according to His pleasure.
The gifts are “for all believers” in that they are available within the church for the edification of the entire body, but not every believer will possess every gift or even multiple. Every believer receives at least one gift. 1 Corinthians 12:7 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good..” & 1 Corinthians 12:11, which imply that every believer is equipped with a gift to serve the church. (distributing to each one individually as He wills.
1 Peter 4:10-11: Peter encourages believers to use “whatever gift” they have received to serve others, implying that every believer has some capacity to serve, whether through a spiritual gift or other means.
