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Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:13 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Hospitality Defined

The spiritual gift of hospitality is the ability to welcome strangers and entertain guests, often in your home, with great joy and kindness so that they become friends. Hospitality is supposed to include one's family (1 Tim. 5:8), friends (Prov. 27:10), Christians (Gal. 6:10), and strangers who may not be Christians (Lev. 19:34).

People with the Gift of Hospitality

These people tend to have an "open home" where others are welcome to visit. This gift is often combined with the natural talents of interior design, cooking, and event planning. Importantly, hospitality is NOT to be extended to false teachers and the like, who are a danger (2 John 10-11).

Hospitality in Scripture

Jesus spent time befriending social outcasts (Matt. 11:19), often ate with His disciples, and has welcomed us into the family of God, which includes an eternal home (John 14:2) and an eternal party (Isa. 25:6-9; Rev. 19:6-9). Elders and pastors are commanded to exercise hospitality (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:8). Peter enjoyed the hospitality of Simon (Acts 9:43) and Cornelius (Acts 10:48). Paul enjoyed the hospitality of Lydia (Acts 16:15) and the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:34).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you enjoy having people in your home?
• Do you enjoy watching people meet and have fun at parties and events you helped to plan and host?
• Is your home the kind that most people feel comfortable in and drop by to visit unannounced?
• Do you feel that something is really missing in your life when you cannot have guests into your home?
• When you think of your home do you view it from the perspective of guests who will visit?
• Do you consider your home as a place of ministry?

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We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Mercy Defined

The gift of mercy is the capacity to feel and express unusual compassion and sympathy for those in difficult or crisis situations and provide them with the necessary help and support to see them through tough times.

People with the Gift of Mercy

They have the ability to "walk in another's shoes" and to feel the pain and burdens they carry. They desire to make a difference in the lives of hurting people without being judgmental. They may have a difficult time evaluating the intentions of others and at times appear naïve.

Mercy in Scripture

Jesus taught on mercy (Matt. 5:7; 9:13; 23:23). He is repeatedly described as having compassion (Matt. 9:36; 15:32; 23:37; Luke 7:13) and was so filled with mercy that He sometimes wept (John 11:35). Jesus' mercy included an attentiveness to and concern for children (Matt. 19:14). Dorcas "was always doing good and helping the poor" (Acts 9:36). Also, the good Samaritan is one of the most classic stories ever told on the subject of mercy (Luke 10:30-37).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you find yourself being drawn to people who are needy, hurting, sick, disabled, or elderly?
• Do you often think of ways to minister to those who are suffering?
• Do you sense a great deal of compassion for people having personal and emotional problems?
• Do you find that when you visit those who are suffering it brings you joy rather than depressing you?
• Do you find yourself responding to people more out of compassion than judgment?

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Spiritual Gifts Series: Click | View Series

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently... (Romans 12:6-8 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Leadership Defined

The spiritual gift of leadership is found in people who have a clear, significant vision from God and are able to communicate it publicly or privately in such a way that they influence others to pursue that vision.

People with the Gift of Leadership

These people tend to gravitate toward the "point position" in a ministry. Others tend to have trust and confidence in their abilities. They best serve others by leading them. They tend to operate with a strong sense of destiny.

Leadership in Scripture

Jesus was such a gifted leader that in His day thousands followed Him and today billions follow Him as the greatest leader who has ever lived. Other examples abound, including Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David, Daniel, Josiah, Paul, Peter, and James.

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do others have confidence in your ability to lead?
• Do you enjoy being the "final voice" or the one with the overall responsibility for the direction and success of a group or organization?
• When a difficult situation arises, do others look to you for input and leadership?
• Do you usually take leadership in a group where none exists?
• Do you find leadership enjoyable rather than frustrating and difficult?
• Do others look to you to make the major decisions for a group or organization?

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Spiritual Gifts Series: Click | View Series

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously... (Romans 12:6-8 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Giving Defined

The gift of giving is the ability to give money and other forms of wealth joyfully, wisely, and generously to meet the needs of others and help support ministries.

People with the Gift of Giving

Regardless of the amount, people with this gift genuinely view their treasures, talents, and time as on loan from God and not their own. They are often moved to meet the physical needs of others. They enjoy giving of themselves and what they have. Even if they do not possess the resources to help, they earnestly pray for those needs to be met.

Giving in Scripture

Roughly 25 percent of Jesus' words in the Gospels are related to our resources and stewardship of them. Though he was poor, Jesus not only fed thousands (Mark 6:41) but also gave us his life as a gift (John 15:13). Elsewhere in the Bible, the widow (Mark 12:42-43), Tabitha (Acts 9:36), Barnabas (Acts 4:34-37), and the Macedonian church (2 Cor. 8:1-2) all had this gift.

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you tend to see the needs of others more than other people do?
• Do you enjoy giving your time, talent, and treasure to others?
• Do you see giving to a worthwhile project as an exciting honor and privilege?
• Do you give to the church regularly, cheerfully, and sacrificially?
• Do you often hear people commenting that you are a generous person?
• Do you find yourself looking for opportunities to give your money—even when no one asks?

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Spiritual Gifts Series: Click | View Series

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage... (Romans 12:6-8 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Encouragement Defined

The gift of encouragement (also called the gift of exhortation) involves motivating, encouraging, and consoling others so they mature in their walk with Jesus.

People with the Gift of Encouragement

Christians with this gift have an unusual sensitivity for and are attracted to those who are discouraged or struggling. As a result, people tend to pursue them for healing words, gracious truth, and compassionate counsel. These people also tend to have a high degree of patience and optimism. They may have a knack for one-on-one relationships and prefer working with an individual or small group.

Encouragement in Scripture

Jesus told us to love even our enemies and do good to them (Luke 6:27-35), and exhorted people to "leave your life of sin" (John 8:11). Barnabas, whose name means "Son of Encouragement" (Acts 4:36), encouraged Paul (Acts 9:27) and John Mark (Acts 15:39). Paul had this gift (Acts 14:21-22; 16:40; 20:1) as did Judas and Silas (Acts 15:31-32).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do people seek you out for advice and encouragement?
• Do you enjoy walking with someone through difficulties?
• Are you attracted to those who are hurting and needy?
• Are you patient with people?
• Would you rather speak personally with someone about their problems rather than send them to someone else for help?
• Do you find it easy to express joy in the presence of those who are suffering?

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It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists... (Ephesians 4:11 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Evangelism Defined

The gift of evangelism is the ability and desire to boldly and clearly communicate the gospel of Jesus Christ so that non-Christians can become Christians.

People with the Gift of Evangelism

Evangelists often care passionately about lost people and have a strong desire to see them meet Jesus. They feel compassion for the lost and seek to earnestly understand their questions and doubts so that they can provide a compelling answer. An evangelist often prefers being with people in the culture rather than hanging out with Christians in the church.

Evangelism in Scripture

Luke 19:10 says that "the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." People accused Jesus of being "a friend of tax collectors and ‘sinners'" because he had many evangelistic relationships with sinful people (Matthew 11:19). Philip (Acts 21:8) and Timothy (2 Timothy 4:5) are also examples of evangelists.

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you enjoy being with non-Christians and sharing the gospel?
• Are you able to effectively communicate to non-Christians in a language they can understand?
• Does a person's conversion bring you profound joy?
• Do you feel frustrated when you haven't shared your faith for a while?
• Do you enjoy teaching others how to share their faith?
• Do you find it easy to direct a conversation toward the topic of Jesus Christ?

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Spiritual Gifts Series: Click | View Series

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV)

Spiritual Gift of Administration Defined

The gift of administration is the God-given ability to give direction and make decisions on behalf of others that result in efficient operation and accomplishment of goals. Administration includes the ability to organize people, things, information, finances, etc. Often the mark of an administrator is the ability to accomplish things in a "fitting and orderly way" (1 Corinthians14:40).

People with the Gift of Administration

Administrators often have a keen eye for detail. They may also possess the natural talents of organization, observing and using details, problem solving, and reasoning.

Administration in Scripture

Jesus organized His ministry by choosing his inner circle of three disciples (Mark 9:2), appointing the twelve (Mark 3:13-14), and sending out the seventy two by two (Luke 10:1). Joseph (Genesis 41:41-57; 47:13-26), Jethro (Exodus 18), and Titus (Titus 1:5) all demonstrate the gift of administration.

Do You Have This Gift?

• When things are poorly organized do you get frustrated and want to help fix things?
• Can you bring order out of chaos?
• Do you naturally organize your life, schedule, finances, priorities, etc.?
• Do you become energized working on tasks and projects?
• Do things like efficiency and promptness matter more to you than most people?
• Do things like spreadsheets, budgets, organizational charts and software, files, highlighters, and label makers make you happy?

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Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV)

If it is serving, let him serve... (Romans 12:7 NIV)

The Spiritual Gift of Helps/Service Defined

The gift of helps/service is the ability to joyfully work alongside another and help that person complete the task God has given them. People with this gift generally prefer to work behind the scenes. They also tend to find joy in helping alleviate the burdens and responsibilities of others. This gift is usually accompanied with an attitude of humility and sacrifice, as well as an ability to perceive the needs of others.

People with the Gift of Helps/Service

These people tend to demonstrate a servant attitude, loyalty, attention to detail, and responsiveness to the initiatives of others. They function well in positions of detail and assistant leadership.

Helps/Service in Scripture

Matthew 20:28 says that "the Son of Man [Jesus] did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus also said, "I am among you as one who serves," and He even washed His disciples' feet (Luke 22:27; John 13:5). Because servants often work behind the scenes, their work but not their name is often mentioned in Scripture (e.g., Numbers 11:17; 1 Timothy 6:2; Acts 6:1-3). People named in the Bible who helped the church through service include Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, Tryphena, Tryphosa (Romans 16:1-4,12), and John Mark (Acts 13:5). Some people with this gift are also appointed to leadership as church deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you enjoy helping others become more effective in their work?
• Do you prefer to labor behind the scenes?
• When someone is doing a job poorly is your first instinct to help them instead of criticize?
• Do you prefer to work in a supportive rather than a leadership capacity?
• When you hear of someone with needs, do you offer your services if possible?
• When someone asks for your help, do you have difficulty saying no?

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Spiritual Gifts Series: Click | View Series

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV)

If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach... (Romans 12:7 NIV)

The Spiritual Gift of Teaching Defined

The gift of teaching is the God-given ability to understand and communicate biblical truth in a clear and relevant manner so that there is understanding and application.

People with the Gift of Teaching

Learning, researching, communicating, and illustrating truth are qualities that an individual will manifest when exercising the gift of teaching. These people enjoy studying and learning new information, and find great joy in sharing it with others. The format of teaching varies from one-on-one discipleship to formal classes, informal Bible studies, large groups, and preaching, which is a form of teaching.

Teaching in Jesus' Ministry

Throughout the gospels, Jesus was commonly referred to as Rabbi, which means "teacher." Matthew 4:23 says that "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching," and Matthew 7:28-29 says that "the crowds were amazed at his [Jesus'] teaching because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law."

Teaching in Scripture

Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:26), Paul (Acts 19:8-10; 20:20; Colossians 1:28; 1 Timothy 2:7), elders/pastors (1 Timothy 3:2; 5:17), Timothy (1 Timothy 4:11,13; 6:2), and godly women (Titus 2:2-4) all demonstrated the gift of teaching.

Do You Have This Gift?

• Do you enjoy studying and researching?
• Do you enjoy imparting biblical truth to others?
• Do others come to you for insight into Scripture?
• When you teach, do people "get it"?
• When you see someone confused in their understanding of the Bible do you feel a responsibility to speak to them about it?
• Do you enjoy speaking to various sizes of groups about biblical issues you have strong convictions about?

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Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28 NIV)

It was he who gave some to be apostles... (Ephesians 4:11 NIV)

The Spiritual Gift of Apostles Defined

There is much confusion regarding the spiritual gift of apostleship because there is sometimes a failure to distinguish between the office of apostle and the gift of apostle. The office of apostle refers to the twelve chosen by Jesus (e.g., Matthew 10:1; 19:28; 20:17; Mark 3:13-19; 6:7; 9:35; 10:32; Luke 6:12-16; 8:1; 9:1; 22:19-30; John 6:70-71; Revelation 21:14). The requirements for the office of apostle include being an eyewitness to the life and resurrection of Jesus (Acts 1:21-26). Another requirement is miraculous power (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 8:18; 2 Corinthians 12:12; Hebrews 2:4). Therefore, apostles do not exist today (e.g., writing books of the Bible), although the function of their office does continue in a limited sense.

Apostleship in a Secondary Sense

For example, apostleship in a secondary sense applies to such people as Barnabas (Acts 14:3-4, 14), Apollos and Sosthenes (1 Corinthians 4:6-9), Andronicus and Junias (Romans 16:7), James (Galatians 1:19), and Silas and Timothy (1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2:6). They, like apostles today, were gifted individuals sent out to move from place to place in order to begin and establish local churches (Acts 13:3-4). This gift also includes the capacity to minister cross-culturally (Acts 10:34-35; Ephesians 3:7-8). Today, church planters and missionaries are operating out of their gift of apostleship as well as those Christian leaders God raises up to lead and influence multiple churches and pastors.

People with the Gift of Apostleship

These people often have a number of gifts, such as evangelism, teaching, leadership, faith, and exhortation and are motivated by difficult new tasks.

Apostles in Scripture

Hebrews 3:1 says, "Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess." Jesus also builds the church (Matthew 16:18; Hebrews 3:1-6). He is the chief cornerstone of the church, upon which the foundation of the prophets and apostles is laid (Ephesians 2:20), and over which He rules as Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). Paul is another example (Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus all open with Paul introducing himself as an apostle). Also, a reading of Acts shows how Paul ministered cross-culturally and planted churches. Peter also held the office of apostle (Galatians 2:8; 1 Peter 1:1).

Common Errors Regarding Apostles

Cult leaders and erroneous teachers say that they have authority that is, in effect, equal to Scripture because they are apostles just like those who wrote the Bible. But such people are false apostles (2 Corinthians 11:13; Revelation 2:2) and delusional "super-apostles" (2 Corinthians 11:5, 13; 12:11).

Do You Have This Gift?

• Can you effectively minister cross-culturally?
• Are you called and qualified to plant a church?
• Can you start a church from nothing?
• Are you an entrepreneur?
• Has God given you leadership and influence over multiple churches as a movement leader?
• Can you pioneer a ministry where others have failed?

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