Week 5 | Gifts of the Spirit | Dan

The first thing that stood out to me was the claim that it's a responsibility for all of us as believers, not an option, to minister. And utilizing spiritual gifts is the means by which we do that. God intended for our churches today to practice spiritual gifts, as just the early church did. Nothing has changed. It was a good reminder that spiritual gifts are not the same as talents or skills that we develop in our areas of interest. They're specifically and supernaturally given by God to those he chooses. We are to desire and ask for the impartation of spiritual gifts. The only purpose is the edification, or building up, of the church. I didn't know there were so many scriptural references to spiritual gifts. Looking at all the examples in scripture made me think that spiritual gifts are for real. I like that we have control over when/how to execute our spiritual gifts, and that we are to practice wisdom and common sense. This means it doesn't have to be all mystical. The Holy Spirit doesn't wish to interrupt himself or cause us to become confused during a service. Not all of the gifts will be in operation at all times, but only as God guides us, according current needs and circumstances.