THE MINISTRY OF THE BODY

“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  (I Peter 4:10 {New American Standard}) 

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (King James)

“As all of you have received your spiritual talents, you must keep on using them in serving one another, as good trustees of God’s many-sided favor.” (Williams)

GIFTS OF SERVICE (Motivational)

The discovery of our Spiritual Gift, the development of that Gift and the exercise of that Gift is not an option, it is a command of God, and He expects us all to do all three of these things. The purpose of the Spiritual gifts is to enable Christians to participate more effectively in the implementation of Jesus’ commission to, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matt. 28:19).

So that the church can better operate to its full potential, each member should discover what motivates him. The key to this discovery lies in the words “interest” and “ability”. The goal of God for His Church is that each member be placed in a ministry where he is interested and where his abilities can be best put to use. To place a person to work where he does not have interest is like putting an “eye” to function as an “ear”.

UNDERSTANDING THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS

“I would not have you ignorant of Spiritual Gifts” (I Cor. 12:1). Such ignorance is by no means bless! Ignorance of Spiritual Gifts is one of the main reasons for retarded church growth. It is also at the root of much of the encouragement, insecurity, frustration and guilt that plagues many brothers and curtails their total effectiveness for God.

There is a difference between a Ministry and a Motivational gift. A Ministry is an area of service and a Motivational Gift is that inner drive and capacity that God has given to every individual without exception and without merit. God gave us this Gift the moment we were saved, unlike a Natural talent with which you were born.

Don’t confuse Motivational Gifts (Spiritual Gifts) with natural talents, such as playing an instrument, cooking, painting, singing, etc. Don’t confuse these Gifts with the Fruit of the Spirit. The Fruit of the Spirit is developed, the Gift is discovered.

To understand the Spiritual Gifts is the key to understand the organization of the Church. No local church will be what it should be, what Jesus prayed that it should be, what the Holy Spirit endowed and qualified it to be, until it understands the Spiritual Gifts.

The Bible declares in I Corinthians 12:7-13 that the experience of the New Birth is what places the person en the Body of Christ and that the Holy Spirit gives each member a unique gift that qualifies him to carry out a specific function in the Body. The words “to every one: (I Cor. 12:7,11; I Pt. 4:10; Rom. 12:3) and “all”  (I Cor. 12:13; Rom. 12:4-5,6) reveals that by the virtue of the New Birth, each member has at least one gift. The Living New Testament paraphrases Ephesians 4:7, “However, Christ has given each of us special abilities - whatever He wants us to have out of His rich storehouse of gifts.” This indicates that no member of the Body of Christ can say that he is not qualified or that he cannot do something in the evangelization of the world.

Every member should recognize that the Spiritual Gifts are not produced by the intellect neither by human talent. But rather they are a product of the Grace of God (Rom. 12:6). Someone might say; “I thought that Grace was an unmerited favor of God.” It is. But more than that, Grace is the desire and the ability given by God to do His will.  The Apostle Paul reveals that:

1. It was the Grace of God that caused him to work (I Cor. 15:10).

2. Not to live for Christ is to frustrate His Grace (Gal. 2:20-21).

3. He was a minister by the Grace of God (Eph. 3:7).

4. God motivated the desire in him to do and He gave him the ability to do (Phil. 2:13).

Grace, then, is the divine motivator that qualifies each child of God to do His will, “...to seek and to save that which was lost” (Lk. 19:10). Man, apart from God is unable to do something good (Rom. 3:10-12).

Since God has given us these gifts freely, it is evident that he gave them so we could use them. “As every man hath received the gift, every so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (I Pt. 4:10). The apostle Peter makes two important point here. First, everyone has received gifts and abilities. Secondly, everyone should use their gifts ministering. Nobody is exempt; everyone should get involved. All of God’s people must appear before the tribunal of Christ to gave an account of his stewardship (Rom. 14:10-12; Col. 4:17; Luke 16:1-2).

Paul unravels three groups of gifts in the Body of Christ that are the gifts of preparation (equipping), the spiritual gifts, and the helpful gifts.

1. Preparation (Pulpit and Preaching)  Ephesians 4:11-13:  God gave apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors and teachers “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” The principal task of these gifts in the Church is to capacitate and prepare.

2. Spiritual  (Signs)  I Cor. 12:8-10:  God gave the following supernatural gifts for the use in the public worship (and other purposes); word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, divers kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues.

3. Service  (Motivational)  Romans 12:6-8; I Cor. 12:28:  God gave these gifts for the service in the Body of Christ; teaching, leadership, prophecy, exhortation, mercy, service, giving, administration and helps.

SOME REASONS WHY SOME CAN NOT DISCOVER THEIR GIFT

A. There might be unresolved conflicts in your life where by the issue is being clouded and you aren’t hearing from God because things are not right between you and Him.

B. You are not involved in any kind of Ministry or Service where by your Motivational Gift will not come to the surface if you simply keep it to yourself.

C. Trying to imitate someone else’s Gift. This will confuse you.

D. Failure to analyze what you do and the motivation behind it.

E. Confusing Ministry with Gift. Ministry is the activity in which you carry out that which God has called you to do, motivated by a particular gift.

DISCOVERING YOUR GIFTS TO MINISTER IN THE BODY

The first step in discovering your Gift is not by working at it. The first thing that you have to do is learn to walk in the Spirit. If you do not learn to walk and live in the Spirit then you will see and do everything in the flesh. Then everything that you do will be done by pure human effort. When we are in the Spirit all the Gifts work together, when we are in the flesh there well be conflict and confusion like in the Corinthian Church. The second step is to ask yourself, “What is my motivation for doing this, for feeling this way or behaving in this manner?” The third step that you must know the characteristics of that Gift.           

The way to know if God wants you in a certain area of service is to prove that area, “that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Rom. 12:2). The secret to finding the will of God is wrapped up in one word “prove”. This word means  “to prove, to put to the test, with the hope of the approval.” We “prove it” upon trying it out; with the hope of the approval already in our mind. Put your gift to the test and see how you fit in. Look for hints or clues. You should be conscious of the following

1. WHAT  DO  YOU  SEE ?

Solomon advised, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it” (Eccles. 9:10). Jesus said: “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, for they are white already to harvest” (Jn. 4:35).  What is it that you see? What needs are obvious to you? Is there a need for teachers to give Home Bible studies? Perhaps there is a need of intercessors.

2. WHAT  ARE  YOU  DOING ?

Do you have good office abilities? Are you a good teacher? Do you have good abilities of communication? These could be keys as to how God wants to use you in your ministry of gifts.

3. WHAT  DO  YOU  ENJOY  DOING ?

Do you like children? Do you love to make floral arrangements? You could care for children so that a mother could attend a new converts class or encourage an absent saint with a call.

4. WHAT  DO  YOU  FEEL ?

What do you long for? Are you good in knowing what God has for you if you maintain this true yearning. Don’t be too general in this area.

5. WHAT  DO  YOU  HEAR ?

Whoever God has truly called to an area of service will find confirmation of the body, the church of God. Have you received good comment on something that you have attempted to do for Christ.

ALL MUST DISCOVER THEIR GIFT AND PUT TO USE

It has been found that in most business that 20% of the people do 80% of the work. This is also true in most churches, 20% of the people do 80% of the work and give 80% of the money.

What would you say to your 13 year old child if he came to you one day and said to you, “I’m not going to school any more, I’m not going to do anything. I don’t want a trade, I don’t want a profession, I’m just going to live and take it easy! You would probably say to him, “Look, your mother and I have invested much time and money in you to rise you.” He gets to be 18 years old and comes to you with the same thing, he doesn’t want to do anything. You would probably say to him, “Look, you are wasting your life, wasting your time and wasting your talents.” What do you think god is say to you if you are not serving? God wants to use you to serve others. Why do you think He has blessed you?

    

             

LOS DONES DE DIOS A LA IGLESIA

" El que descendió, él mismo es el que también subió sobre todos los cielos para cumplir todas las cosas.) Y él mismo dió unos, ciertamente apóstoles; y otros, profetas; y otros, evangelistas; y otros, pastores y doctores; Para perfección de los santos, para la obra del ministerio, para edificación del cuerpo de Cristo." (Efesios 4:10

El apóstol Pablo escribió a los corintios: "En cuanto a los dones espirituales, hermanos, no quiero que ignoréis" (I Corintios 12: 1). No debemos estar desinformados  acerca de la naturaleza y el propósito de los dones espirituales.

Los dones espirituales son empoderamientos sobrenaturales dados a la iglesia a fin de perfeccionar a los santos (Efesios 4:12). Eran y son dados con el fin de tener en la Iglesia una "plena representación y la expresión del Cristo ministrando", y extender su Reino en todo el mundo. Esta es la forma en que va a traer un cuerpo maduro a la existencia en la tierra. El deseo de Dios es que estos dones fluyan en la fuerte unción del Espíritu a fin de que el cuerpo reciba la "impartición" pleno de Cristo, que se expresa a través de ellos.

Los dones espirituales no son innatas, talentos naturales, como un oído para la música o la capacidad de dibujar, sino que son empoderamientos que el Espíritu Santo da a un creyente para ministrar al cuerpo de maneras que no eran posibles por el mero esfuerzo natural. En el ministerio de los apóstoles, vemos que ellos hicieron milagros, sanaron a personas, predicaron y hablaron en lenguas, que no habían sido capaces de hacer aparte de Cristo.

Los dones espirituales son la fuente de mucha controversia y confusión entre los creyentes. Esto es interesante y algo de un triste comentario, ya que estos dones están destinados a ser gracias de Dios para la edificación de la iglesia. Incluso hoy en día, como en la iglesia primitiva, el mal uso y la falta de comprensión de los dones espirituales traer la división, en lugar de construir en la iglesia. Estos dones no son el fin en sí mismas. El deseo final es un hombre corporativo maduro, de estatura completa, en la tierra que plenamente manifiesta las virtudes de la Cabeza, Jesucristo.

LOS DONES DE DIOS Y EL LLAMADO DE DIOS

Cuando se relaciona con el objetivo de hacer la voluntad de Dios o el funcionamiento en el Cuerpo de Cristo, el llamado general de una persona es equivalente a su don espiritual. No hay mejor marco de referencia en el que interpretar el llamamiento de uno de su mezcla del dones. Dios no da dones que Él no a "llamado" al receptor a utilizar, ni llama a alguien para hacer algo para Él sin equipar a esa persona con el don o dones necesarios para hacerlo.

Sin embargo, además de la llamada general también habrá una llamada específica. Esta llamada especifica es su "ministerio". Así que el ministerio o la llamada específica determina la forma particular o un determinado entorno en el que Dios desea que pueda ejercer el don o dones que Él le ha dado. Por ejemplo, una persona puede tener el don de la enseñanza y se llama específicamente para usar ese don entre los niños o para escribir libros. Dentro de la llamadas de carácter general proporcionada por cada done, se encuentran muchos aspectos más específicos que tal done puede ser ministró.

¿QUÉ ES UN DON ESPIRITUAL?

Un don espiritual es una habilidad especial o capacidad dada por Dios a todos los miembros del cuerpo de acuerdo a Su gracia para habilitar a los cristianos para ministrar (servir) en el cuerpo (I Corintios 12). La palabra griega para los dones espirituales es carisma. El término "dones espirituales" proviene de las palabras griegas charismata (dones) y pneumatika (espíritus). Son las formas plurales de carisma, que significa "expresión de la gracia", y pneumatikon que significa "expresión del Espíritu." Si bien existen diferentes tipos de dones (1 Corintios 12: 4) hablando generalmente, los dones espirituales son gracias dados por Dios (habilidades especiales, oficios, o manifestaciones) destinados a la obra de servicio, para beneficiar y edificar todo el cuerpo de Cristo. (Romanos 12: 6-8, 1 Corintios 12: 4-11, 28-31, Efesios 4: 7-13, 1 Pedro 4:10).

Charismata viene de la palabra charis, que en griego significa gracia. Hay una relación muy estrecha entre los dones espirituales y la gracia de Dios. Cristianos individuales desconectados del cuerpo no son muy útiles. Los dones espirituales no están diseñados para funcionar solos, están diseñados para los miembros del Cuerpo. Los dones espirituales no sólo son funcionales, pero también son congregacionales. Todo lo que Dios hace en el mundo se realiza a través de los cristianos que están trabajando juntos complementándose entre sí con sus dones. Estos dones son para ser utilizados no sólo por individuos sino por los cristianos que trabajan como un equipo para hacer el trabajo de la mejor manera posible.

LA IMPORTANCIA DE CONOCER SUS DONES ESPIRITUALES

A veces se hace la pregunta, "¿Pueden los dones espirituales operar a través de mí si no soy consciente de mis dones espirituales?" Uno puede manifestar dones espirituales sin entender o ni siquiera ser consciente de ellos.

Sin embargo, hay muchas buenas razones  por lo cual debemos conocer y entender nuestros dones. Nos encontramos en una posición mucho más favorable para convertirse en discípulos efectivos cuando identificamos y desarrollamos los dones espirituales que Dios nos ha dado. Aquí hay algunas razones de por qué usted debe ser consciente de sus dones:

1. LE AYUDA A DETERMINAR LA VOLUNTAD DE DIOS PARA USTED

El conocimiento de sus dones proporcionará un contexto para la toma de decisiones de la carrera y el ministerio con respecto a lo que no debe intentar así como lo que debe entrar con confianza.

2. MOVILIZA A LA IGLESIA ENTERA PARA ACCIÓN

Ya que un pequeño porcentaje de la iglesia se compone de clérigos y más del 90% de la iglesia consiste en no-clérigos, la iglesia, obviamente, debe equipar y animar a todos los miembros para servir en su respectiva esfera de influencia.

3. LE AYUDA A ESTABLECER PRIORIDADES PARA ESTUDIO, EL CRECIMIENTO Y EL MINISTERIO

Dado que cada uno de nosotros tiene una cantidad limitada de tiempo para desarrollar nuestro potencial, parece claro que debemos desarrollarnos en las áreas de nuestros dones especiales.

4. DA A CADA MIEMBRO UN SENTIDO DE DIGNIDAD Y LA AUTOESTIMA

Cada miembro es una parte importante de la iglesia total. No hay "segunda clase" ciudadanos en el Cuerpo de Cristo, ya que cada persona constituye un elemento de vital importante del cuerpo.

5. LE PERMITE RECIBIR LOS DONES MINISTERALES DE OTROS

Cuando los miembros adquieran mayores conocimientos de sus propios dones espirituales y los de otros miembros, pueden más fácilmente funcionar armoniosamente como el Cuerpo de Cristo, ambos dando y recibiendo ministerios.

6. PROVEE LA UNIDAD ENTRE LOS CREYENTES

A medida que los miembros de la iglesia funcionan inter-dependiente (no independiente), una conciencia de los dones espirituales les lleva a respetar unos a otros como ellos viven juntos en la vida común del Espíritu.

IDENTIFICACIÓN DE LOS DONES ESPIRITUALES

La gran mayoría de los dones espirituales mencionados en la Biblia se encuentran en tres capítulos principales: Romanos 12; I Corintios 12; y Efesios 4. Hay otros dones mencionados en I Corintios 13-14; I Pedro 4; I Corintios 7 y Efesios 3.

El equipamiento y los dones espirituales son extremadamente importantes para el Cuerpo de Cristo, y que debe estar en funcionamiento en la Iglesia Apostólica del siglo XXI

Los dones espirituales se clasifican en tres categorías: los dones del ministerio, dones de  manifestación, y dones de motivación.

DONES DEL MINISTERIO

Los dones del ministerio sirven para revelar el plan de Dios. Son característicos de una oficio de tiempo completo o un llamando, en lugar de un done que puede funcionar en ya través de cualquier creyente. Los dones del ministerio pueden ilustrarse como una mano:

1. Apóstol

Un apóstol establece y edifica iglesias; él es un plantador de iglesias. Un apóstol puede funcionar en muchos o todos los dones del ministerio. Él es el "pulgar", el más fuerte de todos los dedos, capaz de tocar todos los dedos.

2. Profeta

Profeta en el griego significa "avisar" en el sentido de hablar por otro. Un profeta funciona como la boca de Dios, hablando sucesivamente la palabra de Dios. El profeta es el "dedo índice", o el dedo de punta. Él apunta hacia el futuro y señala el pecado.

3. Evangelista

Un evangelista es llamado a ser un testigo de Jesucristo. Trabaja para la iglesia local para llevar a gente al cuerpo de Cristo, donde pueden ser discipulados. Él es el "dedo medio", el más alto que se destaca en la multitud. Evangelistas llaman mucho la atención, pero son llamados a servir al cuerpo local.

4. Pastor

El pastor, el pastor de las personas. Un verdadero pastor da su vida por las ovejas. El pastor es el "dedo anular." Está casado con la iglesia; es llamado a permanecer, supervisar, cuidar y guiar.

5. Maestro

El maestro y el pastor son a menudo una oficina compartida, pero no siempre. El maestro pone los cimientos y se ocupa de detalle y precisión. Se deleita en la investigación para validar la verdad. El maestro es el "dedo meñique". Aunque aparentemente muy pequeño e insignificante, está diseñado específicamente para excavar en lugares oscuros, estrechos, brillando la luz y escarbando la Palabra de verdad.

DONES DE MANIFESTACION

Los regalos de manifestación sirven para revelar el poder de Dios. Estos dones son sobrenaturales o de naturaleza espiritual. Se pueden subdividir en tres grupos: expresión (por decir), potencia (acción), y la revelación (par revelar).

1. Profecía

Esta es la "proclamación" de la Palabra inspirada de Dios principalmente a la iglesia, con el propósito de confirmar la palabra escrita y la edificación de todo el cuerpo. El mensaje es por lo general una de edificación, exhortación o consuelo, aunque puede declarar la voluntad de Dios en una circunstancia particular, y en casos raros, predecir eventos futuros.

2. Hablar en Lenguas

Esta es una palabra supernatural en una lengua no aprendida que se interpreta de manera que se edifica todo el cuerpo. Las lenguas también pueden ser una señal para los incrédulos.

3. Interpretación de Lenguas

Esta es una interpretación sobrenatural de un mensaje en lenguas, traducido al idioma conocido para que todo el cuerpo sea edificado.

4. Fe

Esta no es la fe que se mide a cada creyente, ni es "la fe que salva." Esto es especial, fe sobrenatural dada por el Espíritu para recibir milagros o de creer a Dios por los milagros.

5. Sanidad

Se trata de la sanidad sobrenatural, más allá de los medios naturales, dado por el Espíritu.

6. Milagros

Esta es la suspensión sobrenatural de las leyes naturales, o una intervención de Dios a las leyes de la naturaleza.

7. Palabra de Sabiduría

Este es un conocimiento sobrenatural aplicado de una manera piadosa o correcta. La comprensión de la verdad doctrinal.

8. Palabra de Ciencia

Este es un conocimiento sobrenatural de los hechos y la información que sólo pueden ser reveladas por Dios con el propósito de aplicar la verdad doctrinal.

9. Discernimiento de Espíritus

Esta es la habilidad sobrenatural para distinguir entre los espíritus, como el bien y el mal, la verdad o engañar, profética o satánico.

DONES DE MOTIVACIÓN

Los dones de motivación sirven para revelar la personalidad de Dios. Estos dones son de naturaleza práctica. Describen las motivaciones internas del siervo cristiano.

1. Profecía

Los que tienen el don de motivación de la profecía son los "videntes" u "ojos" del cuerpo. Tienen visión, previsión y actúan como atalayes en la iglesia. Ellos advierten de pecado o revelan el pecado. Por lo general son muy verbal y puede ser percibida como crítico e impersonal; son leales a la verdad sobre la amistad, serio, dedicado.

2. Ministrando / Servicio / Ayuda

Los que tienen el don de servir de motivación son las "manos" del cuerpo. Se preocupan por las necesidades; son muy motivados, hacedores. Ellos encuentran alegría en el servicio y el cumplimiento de los objetivos a corto plazo.

3. Enseñando

Los que tienen el don de motivación de la enseñanza son la "mente" del cuerpo. Reconocen que su don es fundamental; hacen hincapié en la precisión de las palabras y les gusta a estudiar; Aman la investigación para validar la verdad.

4. Dando

Los que tienen el don de motivación de dar son los "brazos" del cuerpo. Ellos realmente disfrutan en el dar. Ellos son excitados por la perspectiva de bendecir a los demás; que desean dar en silencio, en secreto, pero también motivar a otros a dar. Ellos están atentos a las necesidades de las personas; dan con alegría y siempre dan lo mejor que pueda.

5. Exhortación / Estímulo

Los que tienen el don de motivación de ánimo son la "boca" del cuerpo. Animan a otros creyentes y están motivados por el deseo de ver a las personas crecer y madurar en el Señor. Son prácticos y positivos y buscan respuestas positivas.

6. Administración / Liderazgo

Los que tienen el don de motivación de liderazgo son la "cabeza" del cuerpo. Tienen la capacidad de ver el panorama general y establecen objetivos a largo plazo; son buenos organizadores y encuentran formas eficientes de hacer el trabajo.

A pesar de que no buscan el  liderazgo, ellos lo asuman cuando no hay un líder disponible. Reciben satisfacción cuando otros se unen para completar una tarea.

7. Misericordia

Los que tienen el don de motivación de misericordia son el "corazón" del cuerpo. Ellos fácilmente detectan la alegría o angustia en otras personas y son sensibles a los sentimientos y necesidades. Ellos se sienten atraídos y paciente con las personas necesitadas, motivados por el deseo de ver gente curada de las heridas. Ellos son realmente humildes en la naturaleza y evitar la firmeza.

El propósito de todos los dones espirituales es "que en todo Dios sea glorificado por medio de Jesucristo" (v. 11). Esto significa que el objetivo de Dios al darnos dones, y darnos la fe para ejercerlas, es que Su gloria se hiciera evidente. Él quiere que nosotros y el mundo se maravillen con Él y pensar que es fantástico. La estupenda realidad de Dios lo abarca todo. "Porque de él, por él y para él son todas las cosas" (Romanos 11:36). Y no hay nada más emocionante, más alegre, más significativo, más satisfactorio que encontrar nuestro nicho en el despliegue eterno de la gloria de Dios. Nuestro done puede parecer pequeña, pero como parte de la revelación de la gloria infinita de Dios toma proporciones formidables.

Los dones del Espíritu son para servir a Sus propósitos en la iglesia y en nuestro mundo. Con las directrices que se nos han dado en la Palabra de Dios, los creyentes de todo el mundo deberían abrazar la obra del Espíritu Santo en sus vidas y salir a cumplir  la Comisión de nuestro Señor.

GOD’S GIFTS TO THE CHURCH

"He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." (Ephesians 4:10-12)

The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed" (I Corinthians 12:1). We should not to be uninformed about the nature and purpose of spiritual gifts.

The spiritual gifts are supernatural empowerments given to the church for the equipping of the saints (Ephesians 4:12). They were and are given in order to have in the Church a “full representation and expression of the ministering Christ”, and extend His Kingdom throughout the world. This is how he is going to bring a mature Body into existence in the earth. God’s desire is that these gifts flow in the strong anointing of the Spirit in order for the Body to receive the full “impartation” of Christ which is being expressed through them.

Spiritual gifts are not innate, natural talents, like an ear for music or the ability to draw, but rather they are empowerments that the Holy Spirit gives to a believer to minister to the body in ways that were not possible by mere natural effort. In the ministry of the apostles, we see that they performed miracles, healed people, preached, and spoke in tongues, which they had not been able to do apart from Christ.

Spiritual gifts are the source of much controversy and confusion among believers. This is interesting and something of a sad commentary, since these gifts are meant to be graces from God for the edification of the church. Even today, as in the early church, the misuse and misunderstanding of spiritual gifts bring division, rather than building up in the church. These gifts are not the end in themselves. The end desire is a mature, full statured, corporate man in the earth which fully manifests the virtues of the Head, Jesus Christ.

GOD’S GIFTS AND GOD’S CALL

When related to the objective of doing God’s will or functioning in the Body of Christ, a person’s general call is equivalent to their spiritual gift. There is no better framework within which to interpret one’s call than one’s gift mix. God does not give gifts which He does not “call” the recipient to use, nor does He call someone to do something for Him without equipping that person with the necessary gift or gifts to do it.

However, besides the general calling there will also be a specific calling. This specific call is one’s “ministry.” So the ministry or the specific call determines the particular way or the particular setting in which God wishes you to exercise the gift or gifts He has given you.  For example, a person can have the gift of teaching and be called specifically to use that gift among children or to write books. Within the general calling provided by each gift, there, are many more specific ways that such a gift can be ministered.

WHAT IS A SPIRITUAL GIFT?

A spiritual gift is a special ability or capacity given by God to every member of the Body according to His Grace to enable the Christian to minister (serve) in the Body (I Corinthians 12). The Greek word for spiritual gifts is charisma. The term "spiritual gifts" comes from the Greek words charismata (gifts) and pneumatika (spirits). They are the plural forms of charisma, meaning "expression of grace," and pneumatikon meaning "expression of Spirit." While there are different kinds of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4), generally speaking, spiritual gifts are God-given graces (special abilities, offices, or manifestations) meant for works of service, to benefit and build up the body of Christ as a whole. (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28-31, Ephesians 4:7-13, 1 Peter 4:10).

Charismata comes from the word charis, which in Greek means grace. There is a very close relationship between spiritual gifts and the grace of God. Individual Christians disconnected from the Body are not very useful. Spiritual Gifts are not designed to function alone, they are designed for members of the Body. The Spiritual Gifts are not only functional, but they are also congregational. Everything that God does in the world are done through Christians who are working together complementing each other with their gifts. These gifts are to be used not just by individuals but by Christians working as a team to do a job the best possible way.

THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Sometimes the question is asked, “Can spiritual gifts operate through me if I am not aware of my spiritual gifts?” One can manifest spiritual gifts without understanding or even being aware of them.

However, there are many good reasons for us to know and understand our gifts. We stand in a much more favorable position to become effective disciples when we identify and develop the spiritual gifts God has given us. Here are some reasons as to why you should become aware of your gifts:

1. HELPS YOU DETERMINE GOD’S WILL FOR YOU

A knowledge of your gifts will provide a context for making career and ministry decisions regarding what not to attempt as well as what to enter into with confidence.

2. MOBILIZES THE ENTIRE CHURCH FOR ACTION

Since a small percentage of the church consists of clergy and more than 90% of the church consists of non-clergy, the church obviously must equip and encourage every member to minister in his or her respective sphere of influence.

3. ASSISTS YOU IN SETTING PRIORITIES FOR STUDY, GROWTH AND MINISTRY

Since each of us has a limited amount of time to develop our potential, it seems clear that we should develop ourselves in the areas of our special gifts.

4. GIVES EACH MEMBER A SENSE OF DIGNITY AND SELF WORTH

    Every member is an important part of the total church. There are no “second class” citizens in the Body of Christ because each person constitutes a vitally significant member of the Body.

5. ENABLES YOU TO RECEIVE THE GIFT MINISTRIES OF OTHERS

     When members become more knowledgeable of their own spiritual gifts and those of other members, they can more easily function harmoniously as the Body of Christ, both giving and receiving ministries.

6. FOSTERS UNITY AMONG THE BELIEVERS

     As the members of the church function inter-dependently (not independently), an awareness of spiritual gifts leads them to respect one another as they live together in the common life of the Spirit.

IDENTIFYING SPIRITUAL GIFTS

The great majority of the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible are found in three key chapters: Romans 12; I Corinthians 12; and Ephesians 4. There are other gifts mentioned in I Corinthians 13-14; I Peter 4; I Corinthians 7 and Ephesians 3.

The equipping and Spiritual Gifts are extremely important to the Body of Christ, and they should be in operation in the Apostolic Church of the twenty-first century

Spiritual Gifts are classified into three categories: ministry gifts, manifestation gifts, and motivational gifts.

MINISTRY GIFTS

The ministry gifts serve to reveal the plan of God. They are characteristic of a full-time office or calling, rather than a gift that can function in and through any believer. The ministry gifts can be illustrated as a hand:

1. Apostle

An apostle establishes and builds churches; he's a church planter. An apostle may function in many or all of the ministry gifts. He is the "thumb," the strongest of all of the fingers, able to touch every finger.

2. Prophet

Prophet in the Greek means to "forth tell" in the sense of speaking for another. A prophet functions as God's mouth piece, speaking forth God's Word. The prophet is the "index finger," or pointer finger. He points to the future and points out sin.

3. Evangelist

An evangelist is called to be a witness for Jesus Christ. He works for the local church to bring people into the body of Christ where they can be discipled. He is the "middle finger," the tallest one who stands out in the crowd. Evangelists draw a lot of attention, but they are called to serve the local body.

4. Pastor

The pastor is the shepherd of the people. A true shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The pastor is the "ring finger." He is married to the church; called to stay, oversee, nurture and guide.

5. Teacher

The teacher and the pastor are often a shared office, but not always. The teacher lays the foundation and is concerned with detail and accuracy. He delights in research to validate truth. The teacher is the "pinky finger." Though seemingly small and insignificant, he is designed specifically for digging into tight, dark places, shinning light and picking apart the Word of truth.

MANIFESTATION GIFTS

The manifestation gifts serve to reveal the power of God. These gifts are supernatural or spiritual in nature. They can be further subdivided into three groups: utterance (for telling), power (action), and revelation (revealing).

1. Prophecy

This is the "forth telling" of the inspired Word of God primarily to the church, for the purpose of confirming the written Word and building up the entire body. The message is usually one of edification, exhortation or consolation, although it can declare God's will in a particular circumstance, and in rare cases, predict future events.

2. Speaking in Tongues

This is a supernatural utterance in an unlearned language which is interpreted so that the entire body will be edified. Tongues may also be a sign to unbelievers.

3. Interpretation of  Tongues

This is a supernatural interpretation of a message in tongues, translated into the known language so that the entire body will be edified.

4. Faith

This is not the faith that is measured to every believer, nor is it "saving faith." This is special, supernatural faith given by the Spirit to receive miracles or to believe God for miracles.

5. Healing

This is supernatural healing, beyond natural means, given by the Spirit.

6. Miracles

This is the supernatural suspension of the natural laws, or an intervention by God into the laws of nature.

7. Word of Wisdom

This is supernatural knowledge applied in a godly or correct way. Insight into doctrinal truth.

8. Word of Knowledge

This is supernatural knowledge of facts and information that can only be revealed by God for the purpose of applying doctrinal truth.

9. Discerning of Spirits

This is the supernatural ability to distinguish between spirits such as good and evil, truthful or deceiving, prophetic versus satanic.

MOTIVATIONAL GIFTS

The motivational gifts serve to reveal the personality of God. These gifts are practical in nature. They describe the inner motivations of the Christian servant.

1. Prophecy

Those with the motivational gift of prophecy are the "seers" or "eyes" of the body. They have insight, foresight, and act like watch dogs in the church. They warn of sin or reveal sin. They are usually very verbal and may come across as judgmental and impersonal; they are loyal to truth over friendship, serious, dedicated.

2. Ministering/Serving/Helps

Those with the motivational gift of serving are the "hands" of the body. They are concerned with meeting needs; they are highly motivated, doers. They find joy in serving and meeting short-term goals.

3. Teaching

Those with the motivational gift of teaching are the "mind" of the body. They realize their gift is foundational; they emphasize accuracy of words and love to study; they delight in research to validate truth.

4. Giving

Those with the motivational gift of giving are the "arms" of the body. They truly enjoy reaching out in giving. They are excited by the prospect of blessing others; they desire to give quietly, in secret, but will also motivate others to give. They are alert to people's needs; they give cheerfully and always give the best that they can.

5. Exhortation/Encouragement

Those with the motivational gift of encouragement are the "mouth" of the body. They encourage other believers and are motivated by a desire to see people grow and mature in the Lord. They are practical and positive and they seek positive responses.

6. Administration/Leadership

Those with the motivational gift of leadership are the "head" of the body. They have the ability to see the overall picture and set long-term goals; they are good organizers and find efficient ways of getting work done.

Although they may not seek leadership, they will assume it when no leader is available. They receive fulfillment when others come together to complete a task.

7. Mercy

Those with the motivational gift of mercy are the "heart" of the body. They easily sense the joy or distress in other people and are sensitive to feelings and needs. They are attracted to and patient with people in need, motivated by a desire to see people healed of hurts. They are truly meek in nature and avoid firmness.

The purpose of all spiritual gifts is "that in everything God might be glorified through Jesus Christ" (v. 11). This means that God's aim in giving us gifts, and in giving us the faith to exercise them, is that his glory might be displayed. He wants us and the world to marvel at him and to think he is fantastic. The stupendous reality of God is all encompassing. "For from him and through him and to him are all things" (Romans 11:36). And there is nothing more thrilling, more joyful, more meaningful, more satisfying than to find our niche in the eternal unfolding of God's glory. Our gift may look small, but as a part of the revelation of God's infinite glory it takes on stupendous proportions.

The gifts of the Spirit are to serve His purposes in the church and in our world. With the guidelines we have been given in God’s Word, believers everywhere should embrace the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives and move out to fulfill our Lord’s Commission.

     

¿DONDE ESTA ELISEO?

II Reyes 2:8-15

La pregunta que se debe hacerse hoy, no debe ser, ¿dónde está el Dios de Elías?” Más bien, “¿donde está Elíseo?”

Todo mundo está familiarizado con la historia del llamamiento y vida del profeta Elíseo. Elíseo había sido un agricultor próspero hasta el día que dejó todo por seguir al profeta Elías. El sirvió a Elías como su discípulo por muchos años. Estos fueron años de oscuridad para Elíseo, hasta aquel gran día cuando cayó sobre él, el manto de Elías. Cuando el volvió al Río Jordán, Eliseo preguntó, “Dónde está Jehová, el Dios de Elías?” Tomando en su mano el manto de Elías que se le había caído, golpeó las aguas del Jordán y se dio cuenta que el poder de Dios que había estado sobre Elías, ahora estaba sobre él.

Ahora, Elíseo ya no era ese impotente y obscuro sirviente de Elías, ahora era un potente profeta de Dios. Las proezas de Eliseo fueron muchas y poderosas y a veces espectáculos. El hizo mucho en favor de reino de Dios, pero había una razón por ello. Elíseo, no siempre fue una persona prominente. El llegó a ser grande por las elecciones que él hizo en su vida. Cuando él eligió dar su espalda a la seguridad económica de su finca, para seguir al profeta Elías, el se estaba humillando para ser ensalzado. Cuando él estuvo depuesto para ayudar y atender a las necesidades de Elías”, él estaba preparándose para ser un líder.

En el hecho de cuidar el profeta de Dios, el estaba acumulando un tesoro de sabiduría que no se podía haber encontrado en otro lugar. En atender a sus responsabilidades serviles que eran de un discípulo de un profeta, Elíseo sentó un fundamento para una gloriosa carrera.

Ahora, mantos de hombres y mujeres grandes de Dios están cayendo. Hay poder en estos mantos, pero lamentablemente, en muchas ocasiones no hay un Elíseo para tomarlos. Los Elías de hoy están siendo llevado por el Señor sin quien reciba el doble porción de su espíritu. El mundo y el pueblo de Dios como ovejas perdidas tropiezan en la oscuridad porque no tienen profeta quien lo guía y los instruye.

“¿Donde está Elíseo?” En muchos ocasiones estos Elíseos de mañana están ocupados con sus sueños de grandeza, que no pueden  tomar tiempo para prepararse. Desprecian los trabajos serviles de un discípulo porque no quieren ensuciarse las manos, están planeando y buscando cómo pueden avanzar pronto en la vida o en el ministerio. Muchos de ellos se piensan muy listos para escuchar o aprender de los consejos de los profetas viejos. Prefieren guardarse en Betel, Jericó o cercas del Jordán donde hay más seguridad. Por estas y muchas otras razones, no están presentes, ni preparados para recibir estos mantos, el Poder y Gloria que Dios tiene para ellos.

Hay iglesias que carecen pastores y ministros, hay campos misioneros que sufren por qué no hay un misionero. Hay Escuelas Dominicales que carecen maestros, hay sociedades en iglesias que sufren porque no hay nadie que quiere ser líderes. La obra de Dios sufre por que los Elíseos no se han preparado para levantar los mantos que han caído.

¿Esta Ud. depuesto para ser un Elíseo? ¿Está depuesto a dar la espalda a la seguridad de este mundo y dedicarse al servicio de Dios, y prepararse para ello? ¿Esta Ud. depuesto hacer lo que Dios y su obra pida de usted sea grande o pequeño? ¿Está depuesto a escuchar y recibir consejos de los siervos de Dios, aun cuando usted piensa que sabe más que ellos?

Si está depuesto, te esperan grandes cosas en el Señor. Frustración y vanidad le espera al que no se prepara. ¿Qué de usted? ¡Si quiere llegar a ser un Elías, primero tienes que ser un Elíseo!

WHERE IS ELISHA?

II Kings 2:8-15

The question that should be asked today, should not be, where is the God of Elijah? "Rather, where is Elisha?”

Everyone is familiar with the story of the calling and life of the Prophet Elisha. Elisha had been a prosperous farmer until the day he left everything to follow the prophet Elijah. He served Elijah as his disciple for many years. These were years of obscurity for Elisha, until that great day when, the mantle of Elijah fell on him. When he returned to the Jordan River, Elisha asked, "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?" Taking in his hand the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters of the Jordan and realized that the power of God that had been upon Elijah was now upon him.

Now Elisha was not that obscure and powerless servant of Elijah, now he was a powerful prophet of God. The exploits of Elisha were many and powerful and sometimes spectacular. He did much for the kingdom of God, but there was a reason for it. Elisha was not always a prominent person. He became great by the choices he made in his life. When he chose to turn his back to the economic security of his farm, to follow the prophet Elijah, he was humbling himself to be exalted. When he was willing to help and attend to the needs of Elijah", he was preparing to be a leader.

In the process of caring for the prophet of God, he was accumulating a treasure of wisdom that he could not have found elsewhere. In meet his menial responsibilities which were those of a disciple of a prophet, Elisha laid a foundation for a glorious career.

Today, mantles of great men and women of God are falling. There is power in these mantles, but unfortunately many times there is not an Elisha to take them. The Elijah’s of today are being taken by the Lord without anyone to receive the double portion of his spirit. The world and God's people like lost sheep stumble in the dark because they have no prophet to guide and instruct them.

"Where is Elisha?" In many cases these Elisha’s of tomorrow are busy with their dreams of grandeur, that they cannot take time to prepare. They despise the menial jobs of a disciple because they do not want to get their hands dirty; they are planning and looking to see how they can advance quickly in life or in the ministry. Many of them think that they are too educated to listen and learn from the advice of the old prophets. They prefer to wait in Bethel, Jericho or close to the Jordan where there is more security. For these and many other reasons, they are not present, nor prepared to receive these mantels, the power and glory that God has for them.

There are churches without pastors and ministers, missionary’s fields that are suffering because there is not a missionary. There are Sunday schools without teachers; there are church auxiliaries that suffer because there is nobody who wants to be leaders. The work of the Lord is suffering because the Elisha’s have not prepared themselves to take up the mantles that have fallen.

Are you willing to be an Elisha? Are you willing to turn your back to the security of this world and dedicate yourself to the service of God and prepare for it? Are you willing to do what God and His work ask of you whether big or small? Are you willing to hear and receive advice from the servants of God, even if you think you know more than them?

If you are willing, great things await you in the Lord. Frustration and vanity awaits those who are not prepared. What about you? If you want to become an Elijah, you first have to be an Elisha!