Spiritual Gifts

Session One: Meet the Holy Spirit

2009-01-19T16:40:38Z

1. The Holy Spirit gives gifts to the Body of Christ. Who is this Holy Spirit? What names does Jesus give to the Spirit? Read John 14:15-21; 15:26,27; 16:5-16. List the names and the work of the Holy Spirit.

2. What did the Holy Spirit do in the life and ministry of Jesus?
Matthew 12:28
Luke 1:35
Luke 3:21,22; 4:18
Luke 4:1
John 16:14
Romans 8:11
Hebrews 9:14

3. What is the work of the Holy Spirit in a Christian's life?
John 3:5,8
John 16:8-11
Acts 2:38
Romans 15:16
1 Corinthians 12:12,13
Ephesians 5:18
Hebrews 9-14

4. Describe your relationship with the Holy Spirit and circle the words that best reflect that relationship.

Warm	Close Friend	Counsellor	Comforter	Joyful
Excited	Gifted	Cleansed	Purified	Teaching
Refreshed	Inspired	Motivated	Encouraged	Affirmed
Convicting	Loving

Session Two: Calling, Gifts and Warning

2009-01-19T16:43:25Z

Part One
Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-27; Galatians 3:26-29; Philippians 2:1-11 and 1 Peter 4:10. Answer the following statements True or False by circling your belief. Then check your answer with the Scripture reference.

True False 1. Every Christian is given at least one gift and possibly more.
(See 1 Corinthians 12:7; 1 Peter 4: 10.)

True False 2. Women are equally gifted with men in the Body of Christ.
(See I Corinthians 12:7; Galatians 3:26-29.)

True False 3. All Christians have a general calling on their lives to be servants.
(See Matthew 20:26; Philippians 2:1-11.)

True False 4. Every Christian has a specific ministry of serving in the Body of Christ by using the gift God has given him or her.
(See 1 Corinthians 12:21-27.)

Part Two
The Greek word for spiritual gift is charisma, which comes from charts that means "grace."
Write your own definition of a spiritual gift:

Dr. Wagner's definition is: 'A spiritual gift is a special attribute given by the Holy Spirit to every member of the Body of Christ, according to God's grace, for use within the context of the Body.'

1. Underline what you agree with in this definition.
2. Cross out what you disagree with in this definition.

Part Three
At times, discovering and using spiritual gifts can be counterproductive. According to Dr. Wagner, these pitfalls need to be avoided:

A. Confusion-Teaching Christians to discover spiritual gifts they received at conversion has, in fact, caused many people-even mature believers-to become confused.

B. Rationalisation-Some people tend to fix their attentions on a supposed gift and use it as a rationalisation for not fulfilling other biblical responsibilities. For example, some might say they have the gift of pastoring, but not teaching. Or others might say they do not have the gift of evangelism because they feel uncomfortable sharing Christ.

C. Self-deception-Some people think they have a spiritual gift when they really don't.

What can the Body of Christ do to avoid these pitfalls? Give a brief answer.

List three benefits received from spiritual gifts.

Session Three: Spiritual Gifts Cards

2009-01-19T16:47:18Z

Instructions: Below are the lists of spiritual gifts from three primary passages in the New Testament. Cut out the 20 cards and thoroughly shuffle them. Give a set of 20 cards to each small group of four that you will have in your group. For example, if you have 16 group members, make up four sets of gift cards. Note that the words in parentheses are variant translations found in several English versions of the Bible.

PROPHECY (preaching, inspired utterance)	SERVICE (ministry)	TEACHING
EXHORTATION (stimulating faith, encouraging)	GIVING (sharing, contributing, generosity)	LEADERSHIP (ruling, administration, authority)
MERCY (sympathy, comfort to the sorrowing, showing kindness)	WISDOM (wise advice, wise speech)	KNOWLEDGE (speaking with knowledge, studying)
FAITH	HEALING	HELPS
MIRACLES (doing great deeds)	DISCERNING OF SPIRITS (discrimination in spiritual matters)	TONGUES (speaking in languages never learned, ecstatic utterance)
INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES	APOSTLE	EVANGELIST
ADMINISTRATION (governments, getting others to work together)	PASTOR (caring for God's people)

Now ask everyone to stay or get in a group of four people. Give one person in each group a set of spiritual gifts cards from 'Spiritual Gifts Cards," which have been thoroughly mixed and shuffled. Get each group to read the three chapters: Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4. Ask each group of four people to sort their cards according to these three passages. Each group will have three sets of cards when they are finished sorting. Instruct them that if one gift appears in more than one passage, they should put that gift in the passage in which it first appears. Give the small groups about 10 minutes to sort their sets of gifts into the three passages. After the small groups have sorted out the gifts according to passage, let them share with the total group which gifts are found in each passage. List the gifts on a chalkboard or overhead under the heading of each passage: Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4.
Each person can then share with the total group:

* Which gifts are least familiar to you? Most familiar.
* Which are most used in your church? Least used?

Session Four: The Other Gifts

2009-01-19T16:50:09Z

The Gift of Celibacy

1. What does Paul say about celibacy in 1 Corinthians 7:7?

2. Skim over 1 Corinthians 7. What are some of the advantages of celibacy? What would some of the disadvantages of this gift be?

3. Read the following definition that Dr. Wagner gives for celibacy. How would you rewrite it in your own words to describe it to another Christian?

"The gift of celibacy is the special ability that God gives to some members of the Body of Christ to remain single and enjoy it; to be unmarried and not suffer undue sexual temptations.'

Your definition:

The Gift of Martyrdom

1. What do Acts 6:12-15; 7:54-60 and 1 Corinthians 12:3 say about martyrdom?

2. Name some martyrs throughout history that you know of who had this special gift.

3. Read the following definition that Dr. Wagner gives for the gift of martyrdom. Then write a definition in your own words.

'The gift of martyrdom is a special ability that God has given to certain members of the Body of Christ to undergo suffering for the faith even to death while consistently displaying a joyous and victorious attitude that brings glory to God.'

Your definition:

The Gift of Hospitality
1. What does 1 Peter 4:9, 10 say about hospitality?

2. Name some people you know who have this gift.

3. Read the following definition of this gift and then write one in your own words.

'The gift of hospitality is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to provide an open house and warm welcome for those in need of food and lodging.'

Your definition:

Session Five: Deliverance from the Demonic

2009-01-19T16:52:37Z

1. Below is a list of some demonic activities. If you have ever participated in one, circle it If you know someone who is active in one of these, put a check by it.

Seance	Ouija boards	Fortune tellers
Astrology	Witchcraft	Satanism
Psychics	New Age	Secret societies
Tarot cards	White or black magic	Metaphysics
Cults	Trances	Praying to the spirits of the dead

2. Read Matthew 12:25-37. Make a list of the ways you know that a given activity is demonic.

3. Read 1 John 4:1-3. How does one discern evil spirits?

4. Are you able to discern evil spirits from the Spirit of God? Who do you know who can discern spirits? Who do you know that can pray for those demonised to be delivered?

5. Write a prayer to cover and protect yourself, your family and your church from demonic attack.

Session Six: Discovering Spiritual Gifts

2009-01-19T16:56:07Z

Circle the gifts that you believe you may have. Put a question mark by the ones you desire to know more about.

Prophecy	Service	Teaching
Exhortation	Giving	Leadership
Mercy	Wisdom	Knowledge
Faith	Healing	Miracles
Discerning of spirits	Tongues	Apostle
Pastor	Helps	Interpretation of tongues
Administration	Evangelist	Celibacy
Voluntary poverty	Martyrdom	Hospitality
Missionary	Intercession	Deliverance

Look around your group. Put initials by the gifts of the people in the group who have those gifts. Don't guess. Just do the ones you feel most certain in identifying.

Steps for Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts

If you have taken this step, write Yes before the step.
If you have not taken a particular step but are willing to try that step, write a + before the statement.
If you have not taken a step and are unwilling at this time to try it, write a - by that step. (These steps are not in a particular progression or order.)

1. Explore the possibilities.

Study the Bible.
Learn my church's position on gifts.
Read extensively about spiritual gifts.
Get to know gifted people.
Make gift a conversation piece.

2. Experiment with as many gifts as you can.

Look for needs that God can meet through you.
Use a gifts inventory.

3. Examine your feelings. Is the gift you are using giving you excitement or a feeling that this is what you want to do more than anything else?

4. Evaluate your effectiveness.

5. Expect confirmation from other Christians.

Session Seven: Gifts for Leading a Healthy Local Church

2009-01-19T17:01:23Z

Pastor

Definition: 'The gift of pastor is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to assume long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers.'

The people in our church's leadership who strongly demonstrate this gift are:

Administration
Definition: 'The gift of administration is the special ability that God gives to some members of the Body of Christ to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the Body of Christ and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals.'

The people in our church's leadership who strongly demonstrate this gift are:

Faith
Definition: 'The gift of faith is the special ability that God gives to some members of the Body of Christ to discern with extraordinary confidence the will and purposes of God for the future of His work.'

The people in our church's leadership who strongly demonstrate this gift are:

Leadership
Definition: 'The gift of leadership is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to set goals in accordance with God's purpose for the future and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those goals for the glory of God.'

The people in our church's leadership who strongly demonstrate this gift are:

Exhortation
Definition: 'The gift of exhortation is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister words of comfort, consolation, encouragement and counsel to other members of the Body in such a way that they feel helped and healed.'

The people in our church's leadership who strongly demonstrate this gift are:

Put, in order of strength, the gifts your minister demonstrates.

Session Eight: The Gift of Evangelist

2009-01-19T17:03:56Z

1. Write your definition of the gift of evangelist.

2. Check the qualities you believe the Holy Spirit gives to a person with the gift of evangelist:

Love for others
Love for Jesus
Zeal
Compassion for the lost
Good speaking ability
Knowledge of the Scriptures
Friendliness
Extroverted personality
Passion

3. Circle two of the above qualities you believe are essential to an evangelist.

4. Read the definition of the gift of evangelist. 'The gift of evangelist is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to share the gospel with unbelievers in such a way that men and women become Jesus' disciples and responsible members of the Body of Christ.'

Name the people you personally know who have this gift.

Something Good Out of Nowhere

Scene: Philip meets Jesus and then goes to tell Nathaniel. Nathaniel then meets Jesus. Taken from John 1:43-51.

Have Philip and Jesus walk across the front of the room from different directions and then almost run into each other.

Jesus: Hey Phil, you're going the wrong direction. Make a right turn and follow Me.

Phil: Right man. Be right back. I've got to tell Nathan about this.

Nathan: (Very relaxed, sitting down and sipping a cup of coffee or juice.) Yo, Phil, what's
happening?

Phil: 'Than, you won't believe this. I just met the Messiah!

Nathan: You serious?

Phil: Great, man, come see Him. (Starts pulling on Nathan to get up and come see Jesus.)

Nathan: So where is this guy from, man?

Phil: He lives in Nazareth.

Nathan: You serious?

Phil: No lie. Come and see.

Nathan: Ain't nothing ever good come out of Nazareth. I gotta' see this man. (Starts walking toward Jesus and stops suddenly.)

Jesus: Hey, brother, I know you were just sitting around sipping your drink and wondering about Me.

Nathan: Whoa, Phil ain't no liar. You are my main man.

Jesus: The best is yet to come, my brother. (All three leave the front of the room arm in arm.)

Session Nine: How Churches Grow

2009-01-19T17:07:43Z

1. These types of evangelistic growth are identified:

E-1 Evangelism - winning those of your own culture to Jesus Christ.

E-2 Evangelism - winning those of a slightly different cultural background than yours to Jesus Christ.

E-3 Evangelism - evangelising those of a vastly different culture than yours to Jesus Christ.

E-4 Evangelism - winning those who are already church members to Jesus Christ.

Circle the kind(s) of evangelism most common to our church.

2. Dr. Wagner also identifies four kinds of church growth:

Internal Growth - people who are already members of the Body of Christ are growing spiritually and in deeper fellowship with one another.

Expansion Growth - increasing the number of church members.

Extension Growth - planting new churches in a similar culture.

Bridging Growth - planting new churches in different cultures.

Prioritise the kinds of growth our church focuses on from the top priority (1) to the lowest priority (4).

Read Acts 1: 7-8. List the kinds of growth and evangelism that are emphasised in this passage.

Session Ten: Gifts for the Rest of the Body

2009-01-19T17:09:50Z

Part One: The Knowing Gifts

The Gift of Knowledge

Definition: 'The gift of knowledge is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discover, accumulate, analyze and clarify information and ideas that are pertinent to the growth and well-being of the Body."

Check the qualities you believe a person with the gift of knowledge might exhibit:

enjoys studying and research
bored with reading
gets ideas in abundance from the Spirit
enjoys socializing with people
works well as a scholar
has a poor memory
is able to recall vast amounts of information
short attention span
eager to learn

Who are some people you know who may have this gift:

The Gifts of Wisdom

Definition: 'The gift of wisdom is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know the mind of the Holy Spirit in such a way as to receive insight into how given knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the Body of Christ.'

What might you see as the qualities associated with this gift? Put an X on the line where you see the strength of this gift.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gets to the heart of a problem quickly Struggles with problems

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Enjoys working with people and their problems Prefers working alone

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Makes correct decisions Has trouble focusing on the problem or solution

with surprising ease

Part Two: The Speaking Gifts

The Gift of Prophecy

Definition: 'The gift of prophecy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance."

The word prophecy means:

The word anointed means:

In our church the gift of prophecy is:

encouraged
viewed only as inspired preaching

Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-5. Briefly paraphrase this teaching by Paul on prophecy:

The Gift of Tongues

Definition: 'The gift of tongues is the special ability that God gives certain members of the Body of Christ (A) to speak to God in a language they have never learned and/or (B) to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance in a language they have never learned.'

Read Acts 2:1-21. How did God use tongues in this situation?

I believe that the gift of tongues is:

The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues

Definition: The gift of interpretation of tongues is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to make known in the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues.'

Vernacular means:

I believe the interpretation of tongues is:

Session Eleven: Six Steps Your Church Can Take to Grow Through Through Gifts

2009-01-19T17:10:57Z

Below each statement, list as many ways as you can think of that each item might be implemented in your church.

1. Motivate the congregation from the pulpit.

2. Study the biblical teaching on gifts.

3. Help people discover their gifts.

4. Sponsor a spiritual-gifts workshop.

5. Set a schedule for accountability.

6. Continue the experience indefinitely.

Inventory #1: A Personal Guide to Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts

2009-01-19T17:14:10Z

What Is a Spiritual Gift?

Is there a difference between a spiritual gift and a talent? Is it important to recognise the difference? Will it help me discover my own spiritual gifts if I can distinguish between the two?

The answer to all three questions is yes. And recognising the differences between talents and spiritual gifts can be one of the keys to finding those spiritual gifts God has given to you.

Let's look first at talents, or natural abilities. A natural ability may be something you're born with, like physical co-ordination. Or it may be a talent you've developed through the years, such as playing a musical instrument.

These natural abilities or talents may be useful or entertaining but they deal primarily with the surfaces of life. The root concern of one's relationship to God is left untouched. Abilities and talents affect people on a temporary basis, not an eternal basis. And spiritual growth isn't necessary for their development.

A woman who frequently opens her home for dinner guests and social gatherings may not have the gift of hospitality. Why not? Because spiritual gifts differ from natural abilities in two important respects.

First, the motivation for the gift is based on love for God and love for humanity. Self-glory or gain can never be the incentive. Paul tells us that one's communication, knowledge, and faith might all be perfect, but they are worthless unless love is the motive (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Second, the goal of spiritual gifts differs from that of natural abilities. Spiritual gifts are granted "for the common good...... to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up the body of Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:7; Ephesians 4:12).

Keep in mind this motivation and goal as you seek to discover your gifts. Ask yourself, "What is my motivation and goal in this area?" Remind yourself that these gifts form the basis for our individual and collective service for God.

Remember, too, that hardly anyone discovers all his gifts at the beginning of his Christian experience. A period of time, or a special set of circumstances may be required to bring your gifts to light. Be willing to try your hand in new areas. Your spiritual gifts can be confirmed only in the actual setting where they are put to use.

What you find in the next few pages should not be used merely as an assessment.

Rather, use this guide to provide a focus for future service to God and to your fellow man.

Inventory #2: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts

2009-01-19T18:42:47Z

This guide in discovering your spiritual gifts should not be viewed as a test. The only right answers here are honest answers. The answers you provide will help you find your areas of strength within the realm of Christian service.

Before You Start

Follow These Four Steps:

Step 1 - Print out the answer sheet from the next page. Go through the list of 125 statements on the questionnaire in part four. For each one, mark on the answer sheet to what extent the statement is true of your life: MUCH = 3, SOME = 2, LITTLE = 1, or NOT AT ALL = 0.

Warning! Do not score according to what you think should be true or hope might be true in the future. Be honest and score on the basis of past experience. If you are a young Christian or new in the faith, the results will need extra care in interpretation.

Step 2 - When you are finished, score the questionnaire according to the instructions on the scoring sheet.

Step 3 - Study the gift definitions and Scripture references.
Step 4 - Complete the exercises to gain a tentative evaluation of where your gifts may lie and to explore the implications for your ministry in the Body of Christ.

Inventory #3: Wagner Modified Houts Answer Sheet

2009-01-19T18:44:03Z

ROWS	VALUE OF ANSWERS					TOTAL	GIFT
A	1	26	51	76	101		PROPHECY
B	2	27	52	77	102		PASTORING
C	3	28	53	78	103		TEACHING
D	4	29	54	79	104		WISDOM
E	5	30	55	80	105		KNOWLEDGE
F	6	31	56	81	106		EXHORTATION
G	7	32	57	82	107		DISCERNING
H	8	33	58	83	108		GIVING
I	9	34	59	84	109		HELPS
J	10	35	60	85	110		MERCY
K	11	36	61	86	111		MISSIONARY
L	12	37	62	87	112		EVANGELIST
M	13	38	63	88	113		HOSPITALITY
N	14	39	64	89	114		FAITH
O	15	40	65	90	115		LEADERSHIP
P	16	41	66	91	116		ADMINISTRATION
Q	17	42	67	92	117		MIRACLES
R	18	43	68	93	118		HEALING
S	19	44	69	94	119		TONGUES
T	20	45	70	95	120		INTERPRETATION
U	21	46	71	96	121		POVERTY
V	22	47	72	97	122		CELIBACY
W	23	48	73	98	123		INTERCESSION
X	24	49	74	99	124		EXORCISM
Y	25	50	75	100	125		SERVICE

Inventory #4: Wagner Modified Houts Questionnaire

2009-01-19T18:48:45Z

For each statement, mark to what extent it is true of your life:

MUCH = 3, SOME = 2, LITTLE = 1, or NOT AT ALL = 0.

1. I have a desire to speak direct messages from God that edify, exhort or comfort others.

2. I have enjoyed relating to a certain group of people over a long period of time, sharing personally in their successes and their failures.

3. People have told me that I have helped them learn biblical truth in meaningful ways.

4. I have applied spiritual truth effectively to situations in my own life.

5. Others have told me I have helped them distinguish key and important facts of Scripture.

6. 1 have verbally encouraged the wavering, the troubled or the discouraged.

7. Others in the church have noted that I have been able to see through phoniness before it was evident
to other people.

8. I find I manage money well in order to give liberally to the Lord's work.

9. I have assisted Christian leaders to relieve them for their essential job.

10. I have a desire to work with those who have physical or mental problems, to alleviate their suffering.

11. I feel comfortable relating to ethnics and minorities, and they seem to accept me.

12. 1 have led others to a decision for salvation through faith in Christ.

13. My home is always open to people passing through who need a place to stay.

14. When in a group, I am the one others often look to for vision and direction.

I S. When I speak, people seem to listen and agree.

16. When a group I am in is lacking organisation, I tend to step in to fill the gap.

17. Others can point to specific instances where my prayers have resulted in visible miracles.

18. In the name of the Lord, I have been used in curing diseases instantaneously.

19. I have spoken in tongues.

20. Sometimes when a person speaks in tongues, I get an idea about what God is saying.

21. I could live more comfortably, but I choose not to in order to live with the poor.

22. I am single and enjoy it.

23. I spend at least an hour a day in prayer.

24. I have spoken to evil spirits and they have obeyed me.

25. I enjoy being called upon to do special jobs around the church.

26. Through God I have revealed specific things that will happen in the future.

27. I have enjoyed assuming the responsibility for the spiritual well-being of a particular group of Christians.

28. I feel I can explain the New Testament teaching about the health and ministry of the Body of Christ in a relevant way.

29. I can intuitively arrive at solutions to fairly complicated problems.

30. I have had insights of spiritual truth that others have said helped bring them closer to God.

31. I can effectively motivate people to get involved in ministry when it is needed.

32. I can "see" the Spirit of God resting on certain people from time to time.

33. My giving records show that I give considerably more than 10 percent of my income to the Lord's work.

34. Other people have told me that I have helped them become more effective in their ministries.

35. I have cared for others when they have had material or physical needs.

36. I feel I could learn another language well in order to minister to those in a different culture.

37. I have shared joyfully how Christ has brought me to Himself in a way that is meaningful to non-believers.

38. I enjoy taking charge of church suppers or social events.

39. I have believed God for the impossible and seen it happen in a tangible way.

40. Other Christians have followed my leadership because they believed in me.

41. 1 enjoy handling the details of organising ideas, people, resources and time for more effective ministry.

42. God has used me personally to perform supernatural signs and wonders.

43. I enjoy praying for sick people because I know that many of them will be healed as a result.

44. I have spoken an immediate message of God to His people in a language I have never learned.

45. I have interpreted tongues with the result that the Body of Christ was edified, exhorted or comforted.

46. Living a simple lifestyle is an exciting challenge for me.

47. Other people have noted that I feel more indifferent about not being married than most.

48. When I hear a prayer request, I pray for that need for several days at least.

49. I have actually heard a demon speak in a loud voice.

50. I don't have many special skills, but I do what needs to be done around the church.

51. People have told me that I have communicated timely and urgent messages that must have come directly from the Lord.

52. I feel unafraid of giving spiritual guidance and direction in a group of Christians.

53. I can devote considerable time to learning new biblical truths in order to communicate them to others.

54. When a person has a problem I can frequently guide him or her to the best biblical solution.

55. Through study or experience I have discerned major strategies or techniques God seems to use in furthering His kingdom.

56. People have come to me in their afflictions or suffering, and told me that they have been helped, relieved and healed.

57. I can tell with a fairly high degree of assurance when a person is afflicted by an evil spirit.

58. When I am moved by an appeal to give to God's work, I usually can find the money I need to do it.

59. I have enjoyed doing routine tasks that have led to more effective ministry by others.

60. I enjoy visiting in hospitals and/or retirement homes, and feel I do well in such a ministry.

61. People of a different race or culture have been attracted to me, and we have related well.

62. Non-Christians have noted that they feel comfortable when they are around me, and that I have a positive effect on them toward developing a faith in Christ.

63. When people come to our home, they indicate that they "feel at home" with us.

64. Other people have told me that I had faith to accomplish what seemed impossible to them.

65. When I set goals, others seem to accept them readily.

66. I have been able to make effective and efficient plans for accomplishing the goals of a group.

67. God regularly seems to do impossible things through my life.

68. Others have told me that God healed them of emotional problems when I ministered to them.

69. I can speak to God in a language I have never learned.

70. I have prayed that I may interpret if someone begins speaking in tongues.

71. I am not poor, but I can identify with poor people.

72. I am glad I have more time to serve the Lord because I am single.

73. Intercessory prayer is one of my favourite ways of spending time.

74. Others call on me when they suspect that someone is demonised.

75. Others have mentioned that I seem to enjoy routine tasks and do well at them.

76. I sometimes have a strong sense of what God wants to say to people in response to particular situations.

77. I have helped fellow believers by guiding them to relevant portions of the Bible and praying with them.

78. I feel I can communicate biblical truths to others and see resulting changes in knowledge, attitudes, values or conduct.

79. Some people indicate that I have perceived and applied biblical truth to the specific needs of fellow believers.

80. I study and read quite a bit in order to learn new biblical truths.

81. I have a desire to effectively counsel the perplexed, the guilty or the addicted.

82. I can recognise whether a person's teaching is from God, from Satan, or of human origin.

83. I am so confident that God will meet my needs that I give to Him sacrificially and consistently.

84. When I do things behind the scenes and others are helped, I am joyful.

85. People call on me to help those who are less fortunate.

86. I would be willing to leave comfortable surroundings if it would enable me to share Christ with more people.

87. I get frustrated when others don't seem to share their faith with unbelievers as much as I do.

88. Others have mentioned to me that I am a very hospitable person.

89. There have been times when I have felt sure I knew God's specific will for the future growth of His work, even when others have not been so sure.

90. When I join a group, others seem to back off and expect me to take the leadership.

91. I am able to give directions to others without using persuasion to get them to accomplish tasks.

92. People have told me that I was God's instrument which brought supernatural change in lives or circumstances.

93. I have prayed for others and physical healing has actually occurred.

94. When I give a public message in tongues, I expect it to be interpreted.

95. I have interpreted tongues in a way that seemed to bless others.

96. Others tell me I sacrifice much materially in order to minister.

97. I am single and have little difficulty controlling my sexual desires.

98. Others have told me that my prayers for them have been answered in tangible ways.

99. Other people have been instantly delivered from demonic oppression when I have prayed.

100. I prefer being active and doing something rather than just sitting around talking, reading or listening to a speaker.

101. I sometimes feel that I know exactly what God wants to do in ministry at a specific point in time.

102. People have told me that I have helped them be restored to the Christian community.

103. Studying the Bible and sharing my insights with others is very satisfying for me.

104. I have felt an unusual presence of God and personal confidence when important decisions needed to be made.

105. I have the ability to discover new truths for myself through reading or observing situations firsthand.

106. I have urged others to seek biblical solutions to their affliction or suffering.

107. I can tell whether a person speaking in tongues is genuine.

108. I have been willing to maintain a lower standard of living in order to benefit God's work.

109. When I serve the Lord, I really don't care who gets the credit.

110. I would enjoy spending time with a lonely, shut-in person or someone in prison.

111. More than most, I have had a strong desire to see peoples of other countries won to the Lord.

112. I am attracted to non-believers because of my desire to win them to Christ.

113. I have desired to make my home available to those in the Lord's service whenever needed.

114. Others have told me that I am a person of unusual vision, and I agree.

115. When I am in charge, things seem to run smoothly.

116. I have enjoyed bearing the responsibility for the success of a particular task within my church.

117. In the name of the Lord, I have been able to recover sight to the blind.

118. When I pray for the sick, either I or they feel sensations of tingling or warmth.

119. When I speak in tongues, I believe it is edifying to the Lord's Body.

120. I have interpreted tongues in such a way that the message appeared to be directly from God.

121. Poor people accept me because I choose to live on their level.

122. I readily identify with Paul's desire for others to be single as he was.

123. When I pray, God frequently speaks to me, and I recognise His voice.

124. I cast out demons in Jesus' name.

125. I respond cheerfully when asked to do a job, even if it seems menial.

Inventory #5: Instructions for Scoring

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1. Turn to your Score Sheet.

2. Now, add your Score Sheet answers together, from left to right, and write that total in the Totals box next to each gift.

Example: Add together the number you wrote in box 1, plus the number in box 26, plus the number in box 51, plus the number in box 76 and the number in box 101. Those five numbers, added together, become your total score to be written in the Totals box.

Directions

When you have finished responding to all 125 statements and are ready to score your test, follow the instructions listed. When your Score Sheet is totalled, return to this page for further instructions.

STEP 1

After adding up your points, you should have several notably high scores. These are your probable spiritual gifts. Please indicate them below, starting with your highest score. Any score below 12, however, is probably not a positive indicator of a gift.

If you had other high scores, or if you feel sure you have certain gifts even though they didn't receive high marks, put them down as well.

You have just taken the first step toward discovering your spiritual gifts. Please understand that this exercise only indicates your probable gifts. Over the next few weeks you should use the following five steps to more clearly determine your spiritual gifts.

STEP 2

Pray, believing that God will continue to reveal to you what gifts He has given you. Don't forget 1 Cor. 12:11: Gifts have been distributed "to each individual." Pray also for the wisdom and desire to use your gifts with greatest efficiency for Him.

STEP 3

Study the Bible passages that deal specifically with this topic: Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12-14,

Ephesians 3, 4 and 1 Peter 4. And take time to reflect on the contexts of the many Bible stories of men and women who used their gifts for God. Such accounts serve as examples and as inspiration.

STEP 4

Experiment by using your new-found gifts. This may be a new experience, and you may not know where to start. See the next page for some suggestions. As you begin to work for God, your gifts will develop in an exciting way.

STEP 5

Confirm the gifts of others. When you see another person using his gift effectively, say so. This isn't flattery, it's a vital step in the ongoing process of spiritual gift development.

Let's begin this process right away. Please mark down the spiritual gifts you've observed in three fellow Christians in your congregation. Your keen observations will be appreciated by each of them and your pastor.

This is a good opportunity to let your friends know what their gifts are, simply by listing them here. It's also a good time to let them know, in a very gracious (and anonymous) way, what their gifts aren't by leaving those gifts off the list. Make this an honest appraisal.

The summary of gifts beginning on the next page may help you in your evaluation.

Which person in your church do you know who best exemplifies the gift of

Discernment? Encouragement? Evangelism? Faith?

Giving? Hospitality? Knowledge? Leadership?

Mercy? Missionary Organisation? Prayer?

Preaching? Service? Shepherding? Teaching?

Wisdom?

STEP 6

Expect confirmation of your gifts by other church members. Following your handing in this inventory to your pastor, your inventory will be returned listing some of the gifts your fellow believers have observed in you. Everyone who hands in his inventory should receive an evaluation. You may not agree with this evaluation! But instead of dismissing these opinions, explore them. Look for ways to develop the abilities others believe you possess.

Inventory #6: Gift Definitions and Scripture References

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The following three pages contain suggested definitions of the spiritual gifts. While not meant to be dogmatic or final, these definitions and supporting Scriptures do correspond to characteristics of the gifts as expressed in the Wagner-Modified Houts Questionnaire.

A. Prophecy. The gift of prophecy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance.
Luke 7:26 - Acts 15:32 - Acts 21:9-11 - Romans 12:6 - I Corinthians 12:10,28 - Ephesians 4:11-14

B. Pastor. The gift of pastor is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to assume a long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers.
John 10:1-18 - Ephesians 4:11-14 - I Timothy 3:1-7 - I Peter 5:1-3

C. Teaching. The gift of teaching is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to communicate information relevant to the health and ministry of the Body and its members in such a way that others will learn.
Acts 18:24-28 - Acts 20:20,21 - Romans 12:71 - Corinthians 12:28 - Ephesians 4:11-14

D. Wisdom. The gift of wisdom is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know the mind of the Holy Spirit in such a way as to receive insight into how given knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the Body of Christ.
Acts 6:3,10 - I Corinthians 2:1-13 - I Corinthians 12:8 - James 1:5,6 - 2 Peter 3:15,16

E. Knowledge. The gift of knowledge is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discover, accumulate, analyse and clarify information and ideas which are pertinent to the well-being of the Body.
Acts 5:1-11 - I Corinthians 2:14 - 1 Corinthians 12:8 - 2 Corinthians 11:6 - Colossians 2:2,3

F. Exhortation. The gift of exhortation is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister words of comfort, consolation, encouragement and counsel to other members of the Body in such a way that they feel helped and healed.
Acts 14:22 - Romans 12:8 - 1 Timothy 4:13 - Hebrews 10:25

G. Discerning of Spirits. The gift of discerning of spirits is the special ability that God gives to certain
members of the Body of Christ to know with assurance whether certain behaviour purported to be of God
is in reality divine, human or Satanic.
Matthew 16:21-23 - Acts 5:1-11 - Acts 16:16-18 - I Corinthians 12:10 - I John 4:1-6

H. Giving. The gift of giving is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to contribute their material resources to the work of the Lord with liberality and cheerfulness.
Mark 12:41-44 - Romans 12:8 - 2 Corinthians 8:1-7 - 2 Corinthians 9:2-8

I. Helps. The gift of helps is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to invest the talents they have in the life and ministry of other members of the Body, thus enabling those others to increase the effectiveness of their own spiritual gifts.
Mark 15:40,41 - Luke 8:2,3 - Acts 9:36 - Romans 16:1,2 - I Corinthians 12:28

J. Mercy. The gift of mercy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to feel genuine empathy and compassion for individuals (both Christian and non-Christian) who suffer distressing physical, mental or emotional problems, and to translate that compassion into cheerfully done deeds which reflect Christ's love and alleviate the suffering.
Matthew 20:29-34 - Matthew 25:34-40 - Mark 9:41 - Luke 10:33-35 - Acts 11:28-30 - Acts 16:33,34 - Romans 12:8

K. Missionary. The gift of missionary is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister whatever other spiritual gifts they have in a second culture.
Acts 8:4 - Acts 13:2,3 - Acts 22:21 - Romans 10:15 - 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

L. Evangelist. The gift of evangelist is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to share the gospel with unbelievers in such a way that men and women become Jesus' disciples and responsible members of the Body of Christ.
Acts 8:5,6 - Acts 8:26-40 - Acts 14:21 - Acts 21:8 - Ephesians 4:11-14 - 2 Timothy 4:5

M. Hospitality. The gift of hospitality is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to provide an open house and a warm welcome to those in need of food and lodging.
Acts 16:14,15 - Romans 12:9-13 - Romans 16:23 - Hebrews 13:1,2 - I Peter 4:9

N. Faith. The gift of faith is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discern with extraordinary confidence the will and purposes of God for his work.
Acts 11:22-24 - Acts 27:21-25 - Romans 4:18-21 - I Corinthians 12:9 - Hebrews 11

0. Leadership. The gift of leadership is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to set goals in accordance with God's purpose for the future and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those goals for the glory of God.
Luke 9:51 - Acts 7:10 - Acts 15:7-11 - Romans 12:8 - I Timothy S:17 - Hebrews 13:17

P. Administration. The gift of administration is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the Body of Christ and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals.
Luke 14:28-30 - Acts 6:1-7 - Acts 27:11 - 1 Corinthians 12:28 - Titus 1:5

Q. Miracles. The gift of miracles is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to perform powerful acts that are perceived by observers to have altered the ordinary course of nature.
Acts 9:36-42 - Acts 19:11-20 - Acts 20:7-12 - Romans 15:18,19 - 1 Corinthians 12:10,28 - 2 Corinthians 12:12

R. Healing. The gift of healing is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to cure illness and restore health apart from the use of natural means.
Acts 3:1-10 - Acts 5:12-16 - Acts 9:32-35 - Acts 28:7-10 - I Corinthians 12:9,28

S. Tongues. The gift of tongues is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ (a) to speak to God in a language they have never learned and/or (b) to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to his people through a divinely anointed utterance in a language they never learned.
Mark 16:17 - Acts 2:1-13 - Acts 10:44-46 - Acts 19:1-7 - I Corinthians 12:10,28 - 1 Corinthians 14:13-19

T. Interpretation. The gift of interpretation is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to make known in the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues.
I Corinthians 12:10,30 - I Corinthians 14:13 - 1 Corinthians 14:26-28

U. Voluntary Poverty. The gift of voluntary poverty is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to renounce material comfort and luxury and adopt a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society in order to serve God more effectively.
Acts 2:44,45 - Acts 4:34-37 - I Corinthians 13:1-3 - 2 Corinthians 6:10 - 2 Corinthians 8:9

V. Celibacy. The gift of celibacy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to remain single and enjoy it; to be unmarried and not suffer undue sexual temptations.
Matthew 19:10-12 - I Corinthians 7:7,8

W. Intercession. The gift of intercession is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers, to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian.
Luke 22:41-44 - Acts 12:12 - Colossians 1:9-12 - Colossians 4:12,13 - I Timothy 2:1,2 - James 5:14-16

X. Exorcism. The gift of exorcism is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to cast out demons and evil spirits.
Matthew 12:22-32 - Luke 10:12-20 - Acts 8:5-8 - Acts 16:16-18

Y. Service. The gift of service is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to identify the unmet needs involved in a task related to God's work, and to make use of available resources to meet those needs and help accomplish the desired results.
Acts 6:1-7 - Romans 12:7 - Galatians 6:2,10 - 2 Timothy 1:16-18 - Titus 3:14

Inventory #7: A Summary of Gifts

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Just as the fruit of the Spirit (listed in the fifth chapter of Galatians) should be found in every Christian's life, so we are all counselled to practice the gifts of the Sprit. "Through love serve one another" (Service -- Gal. 5:13). "Teach and help one another" (Teaching -- Col. 3:16). "But exhort one another daily" (Encouragement -- Heb 3:13). "Give and it will be given to you" (Giving -- Luke 6:38). "Be merciful in action, kindly in heart, humble in mind!" (Mercy--Col' 3:12).
Discernment

I'm able to assist others in determining' spiritual problems
If I see a problem, I tend to render 'u rather than helping others to change
I could effectively choose or nominate church members for positions where they would serve well
I can correctly distinguish a spirit of truth from a spirit of error before that difference is apparent to others

Encouragement

It is easy for me to genuinely comfort someone who is hurting
I can make effective appeals by publicly urging certain courses of action
I am quick to encourage others
I help strengthen positive behaviour rather than criticising negative behaviour

Evangelism

I'm at ease asking people to make a decision for Christ
People often ask me how to become a Christian
Through the Holy Spirit I lead people to a commitment to Jesus
I am more interested in the end results of soul winning than in how people are led to decision

Faith

I rely upon God for all my needs
I am often impatient with methodical, cautious thinking
I am convinced that seemingly impossible tasks can be accomplished
I typically see hope in apparently hopeless situations

Giving

My gifts to others are often answers to specific prayers
I have the ability to make wise investments with the ultimate aim of sharing my gains.
I am sensitive to the material needs of others and desire to meet those needs without publicity
I am able to give without expecting something in return and without insisting on determining how the gift is used

Hospitality

It is more natural for me to meet people's immediate needs than to aid them in planning to meet long-term needs
I enjoy meeting strangers and having them in my home
People look forward to being part of large gatherings in my home
If someone were in need of lodging, I would offer my home to meet the need.

Knowledge

I'm able to mentally grasp how separate pieces of biblical information fit into the great themes of the scripture
I have a tendency to measure spiritual maturity on the basis of biblical knowledge
I can probe to deep levels in Bible topics
I enjoy answering and discussing Bible questions

Leadership

People look to me when opinions are being sought
I tend to assume responsibility if no structured leadership exists
I can lead out in discussions, harmonise various points of view, draw conclusions, and delegate authority
When I am in charge, there is a good spirit of unity and enthusiasm

Mercy

People share their inward struggles with me because they see me as sympathetic and understanding
I often lack firmness and decisiveness because I am sensitive about offending others
I am moved with compassion toward society's outcasts (such as drunks, unwed mothers, mentally retarded)
I condemn others only if they are insensitive to personal needs

Teaching

I care a great deal about the accuracy of information
I'm able to communicate well on the level of my listeners
Bible teachings come quickly to mind whenever I deal with a problem
I'm able to foster much participation and interest in presenting a spiritual subject

Wisdom

I know when to take an uncompromising stand and when to change a position
I can predict with excellent accuracy the long term results of decisions
I can apply what I learn to practical life situations
I view all of life from a scriptural perspective.

Now Find Your Niche

Here are some ideas about where you can help out in your local church program. There are many other possibilities, of course, but these might help you to visualise how your gift can be used in a specific church office or function.

Keep in mind that one position may require more than one gift. For example, an effective administrator requires the gifts of leadership and organisation, a pastor should possess the gifts of shepherding and preaching. The possible gifts combinations are nearly beyond computing.

Discernment

Elder
Nominating Committee
Pastors' lay advisory committee
School board
Membership Committee