Spiritual Gifts Glossary

U denotes service-related gifts of St. Paul Lutheran Church

U ADMINISTRATION:  The gift of administration benefits you in understanding and setting goals for various groups and organizations.  It gives you direction in making plans to achieve those goals.  You are able to plan programming, work with facts and figures and see that goals and ideas are accomplished. 

      Actions:  Brings order to organizational chaos; Works out plans and strategies to reach identified goals; helps, organizations or groups become more efficient; organizes people, ministries or events.

      Characteristics:  Overseer, efficient, goal-oriented, responsible, thorough, responsible.

      Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:28, Exodus 18:13-26 and Acts 6:1-7.

APOSTLE:  The special ability to assume and exercise general leadership within God-assigned spheres such as ecclesiastical, territorial,           functional, marketplace, etc., accompanied by an extraordinary authority in spiritual matters that is spontaneously recognized and appreciated by those within the sphere (see 1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 2:20; 4:11).

CELIBACY:  The special ability to remain single and enjoy it and not suffer undue sexual temptations (see Matt. 19:10-12; 1 Cor. 7:7-8).

U CREATIVE ARTS (CRAFTSMANSHIP): This “gift” or glorified talent will give you the ability to use your  hands, thoughts and mind to further God’s Kingdom through artistic, creative means.  You may also serve as a trainer for others to develop their abilities in this area.

Actions:  Uses imagination to work with raw materials; constructs items that will increase the effectiveness of ministry; uses imagination to gather materials and/or accessories to decorate.

Characteristics:  Imaginative, task-oriented, decorator, hands-on, creative.

Scriptural References:  Exodus 31:2-11, Ezekiel 27:4, 1 Chronicles 4:14, Exodus 35:30-35, Exodus 36:1

DELIVERANCE:  The special ability to cast out demons and evil spirits (see Matt. 12:22-32; Luke 10:12-20; Acts 8:5-8; 16:16-18).

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS:  The special ability to know with assurance whether certain behaviors purported to be of God are in reality divine, human or satanic (see Matt. 16:21-23; Acts 5:1-11; 16:16-18; 1 Cor. 12:10; 1 John 4:1-6).

U EVANGELISM:  The gift of evangelism will give you the power to share the Good News of the love of Jesus with the lost in such a way that those with whom you share it will come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 

Actions:  Invites all people to believe and trust in Jesus in such a way that they are encouraged to accept the invitation to salvation; Seeks opportunities to share God’s love and promises with unbelievers; Lives a life that models their faith so that others will follow their example; Radiates God’s love with a passion that is evident to all they meet; Pioneers and establishes new ministries or churches; Adapts to different surroundings by being culturally sensitive and aware; Desires to minister to unreached people in other communities or countries.

Characteristics:  Spiritual, confident, sincere, influential, adventurous, culturally sensitive, risk-taking.

Scriptural References:  Ephesians 4:11, Acts 5:42, Acts 8:5-8 Acts 13:42-43, Acts 11:20-21

U EXHORTATION (ENCOURAGEMENT): The gift of exhortation will allow you to speak words of comfort, encouragement, admonition or counsel to members of the Body in such a way that they will be strengthened and built up. 

·     Actions:  Challenges, comforts and/or confronts others to trust and hope in the hope that is ours in Christ; Motivates others toward personal and spiritual growth; Gently confronts others to live according to God’s will; Comes along side of those who are discouraged to strengthen and reassure them.

·     Characteristics:  Inspiring, consoling, affirming, supporting, positive outlook.

·     Scriptural References: Romans 12:8, Acts 14:21-22, Acts 11:22-24, Hebrews 10:25, Philippians 2:1-2

U FAITH:  The gift of faith will allow you to see with confidence what God’s will is for your life and, more importantly, for the Body of Christ you are a member of.  You will have no fear of moving ahead even though everything around you seems to be holding you back. 

Actions:  Seeks God’s will and trusts in Him at all times; Demonstrates an unwavering belief in God’s ability and love; Is not easily led astray by the pull of sin and the magnetism of the world; Is a powerful witness to God’s faithfulness and love; Often inspires others to live out God’s vision for the church through deeds of service.

Characteristics:  Confident, spiritual, hope-filled, prayerful.

Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:9, Romans 4:20-21, Acts 27:21-25, Matthew 21:21-22.

U GIVING (Generosity): The gift of giving will allow you to give liberally of your treasurers and time.  As you give, you will experience much joy and satisfaction. 

Actions:  Manages their lifestyle and trusts that God will provide, rather than letting their lifestyle manage them; Tithes dutifully and cheerfully; Shares God’s bounty (money, time, talents and self) with others; Models Biblical examples of stewardship.

Characteristics:  Resourceful, faith that God will provide, committed.

Scriptural References:  Romans 12:8, Mark 12:41-44, Malachi 3:10, 2 Corinthians 8:1-7, Luke 21:1-4

HEALING:  The special ability to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to cure illness and restore health apart from the use of natural means (see Acts 3:1-10; 5:12-16; 9:32-35; 28:7-10; 1 Cor. 12:9, 28).

U HELPS:  The gift of helps will give you the opportunity to help other members of the Body grow in their service.  You will feel needed as you relieve others of tasks that are burdening them. 

·     Actions:  Is ready and willing to provide relief, aid, and/or support, especially at a time of extreme need; Finds spiritual value in assisting others so that they may perform God’s work; Knows that God has a purpose greater than the tasks; spontaneously offers help to others.

·     Characteristics:  Steadfast, accessible; reliable; eager.

·     Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:28, Romans 16:1-2, Mark 2:3-4 Acts 9:36; Isaiah 41:5-6.

U HOSPITALITY:  The gift of hospitality will give you the opportunity to be open and caring to those in need.  You will enjoy having people in your home and you will feel good as you provide food and lodging.

·     Actions:  Offers a venue where people feel valued and cared for; Greets newcomers so they feel at home in a congregation; Finds/creates ways for people to get to know each other and build relationships.

·     Characteristics:  Outgoing, gracious, receptive, sociable, compassionate.

·     Scriptural References: 1 Peter 4:9-10, Acts 16:15, 3 John 1:5-8, 1 Timothy 6:18, Titus 1:7-9.

U INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC: This “gift” or glorified talent will allow you to play an instrument in such a  manner that it will bring praise to God and build up those around you. 

·     Actions:  Uses creative ways to deliver God’s word to His people using instrumental music; Captures and holds peoples’ attention as they consider the message of Christ; Challenges peoples’ perception of God with multiple artistic/musical endeavors.

·     Characteristics:  Inventive, resourceful, people-oriented, imaginative, dynamic

·     Scriptural References: 1 Chronicles 16:42, Psalm 150:4-5. Isaiah 38:20

INTERPRETATION OF  TONGUES:  The special ability to make known in the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues (see 1 Cor. 12:10, 30; 14:13-14, 26-28).

U INTERCESSION:  This “gift” or unique role will allow you to pray for other members of the Body in such a way that your prayers, through the power of the Lord, will be of benefit to them.  You will enjoy praying regularly and, perhaps, for extended periods of time.  You will be able to see frequent and specific answers to prayer that many of your fellow Christians who do not have the “gift” cannot see. 

·     Actions:  Prays earnestly on behalf of someone or a specific cause; prays in response to the leading of the Holy Spirit, Asks others what their specific prayer requests/needs are; prays confidently.

·     Characteristics:  Spiritually sensitive, caring, sincere, advocate.

·     Scriptural References: James 5:14-16, Colossians 4:12, Acts 6:4, Acts 12:5, Ephesians 6:18, John 17:20-21.

U KNOWLEDGE:  The gift of knowledge will give you the ability to use information and ideas you have learned and thought out for the well-being of the Body.  Your sharing of your gift of knowledge will allow the church to become healthy and grow. 

·     Actions:  Searches the scriptures for insight, truth and understanding; Shares Christ in ways that make Him personal and real to others; Organizes information for teaching and/or practical use.

·     Characteristics:  Insightful, studious, reflective, observant, truthful, curious.

·     Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:8, 1 Corinthians 13:8, 1 Corinthians 13:2.

U LEADERSHIP:  The gift of leadership will allow you to be a goal-setter and leader of God’s people.  They will look to you for guidance and direction.  Your leadership will bring glory to God and growth to His church.

·     Actions: Provides direction for God’s people or ministries; Presents the big picture for others to see; Keeps congregations or groups on track and focused on their goals, Mobilizes people to work together for a common cause; communicates plans and vision to help others get from where they are to where they are called to be; Guides Christian groups, large or small, to use their gifts to the fullest.

·     Characteristics:  Farsighted, motivating, trustworthy, persuasive, purposeful, pioneering, resourceful.

·     Scriptural References:  Romans 12:8, Hebrews 13:17, Luke 22:25-26, 1 Corinthians 12:27-28

LEADING WORSHIP:  The special ability to user a congregation into the presence of God through music, prayer, dance and other visual forms (see 1 Sam. 16:23; 1 Chron. 9:33; Ps.  34:3).

U MANUAL CRAFTS: This “gift” or glorified talent will give you the ability to use your hands and ideas in the areas of maintenance and upkeep of God’s physical blessing. 

·     Actions:  Uses imagination to work with raw materials; constructs items that will increase the effectiveness of ministry; uses imagination to gather materials and/or accessories to decorate.

·     Characteristics:  Imaginative, task-oriented, decorator, hands-on, creative.

·     Scriptural References: 2 Chronicles 34:9-13, I Chronicles 4:14, Ezekiel 27:4-9, Exodus 28:3, Exodus 31:2-11, Exodus 35:30-35, Exodus 36:1.

MARTYRDOM:  The special ability to undergo suffering for the faith even to death while consistently displaying a joyous and victorious attitude that brings glory to God (see Acts 22:20; 1 Cor. 13:3; Rev. 2:13; 17:6).

U MERCY:  The gift of mercy allows you to reach out to people who are in need.  Your words of care, concern and your actions, will aid in building up those who may have physical, mental or emotional problems.  The things you do will allow those you serve to see the love of Christ in you and through you.

·     Actions:  Performs deeds of unmerited love; Has a deep empathy for those in need; shows compassion for those who are suffering or in trouble; Spontaneously offers help to others; Expresses love, grace, and dignity to those facing hardships and crisis; concerns themselves with individual or social issues that oppress people.

·     Characteristics:  Empathetic, compassionate; sensitive, caring, kind, resourceful.

·     Scriptural References:  Romans 12:8, Acts 9:36, Luke 10:33-35, Matthew 5:7, Mark 10:46-52, Luke 10:25-37

MIRACLES:  The special ability to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to perform powerful acts that are perceived b observers to have altered the ordinary course of nature (see Acts 9:36-42; 19:11-20; 20:7-12; Rom 15:18-19; 1 Cor. 12:10, 28; 2 Cor. 12:12).

MISSIONARY:  The special ability to minister in another culture other spiritual gifts (see Acts 8:4; 13:2-3; 22:21; Rom. 10:15; 1 Cor. 9:19-23).

PASTOR:  The special ability to assume a long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers (see John 10:1-18; Eph. 4:11-14; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 1 Pet. 5:1-3).

PROPHECY:  The special ability to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance (see Luke 7:26; Acts 15:32; Acts 21:9-11; Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:10, 28; Eph. 4:11-13).

U SERVING:  The gift of serving will allow you to see things that need to be done.  Often these are tasks overlooked by others, especially those in leadership positions.  Assuming the role of the servant will bring you much joy and will build up the Body of Christ. 

·     Actions:  Is ready and willing to provide relief, aid, and/or support, especially at a time of extreme need; Finds spiritual value in assisting others so that they may perform God’s work; Knows that God has a purpose greater than the tasks; Spontaneously offers help to others.

·     Characteristics:  Steadfast, accessible, reliable, eager.

·     Scriptural References:  Romans 12:7, 2 Timothy 1:16-18, Romans 14:18-19.

U SHEPHERDING:  The gift of shepherding (pastoring) will give you the ability to reach out and care in a spiritual manner for an individual or for a group.  You will serve as one who is a counselor, an encourager and a shepherd.  You will see that God’s Word is fed to those in your care and you will also feel a responsibility for the general well-being of the individual or group. 

·     Actions:  Leads and establishes trust with the whole person in their spiritual walk; Watches over and guides a “flock” as Jesus, the Good Shepherd, did; Advocates and models a life that is fully devoted to Christ.

·     Characteristics:  Spiritual cheerleader; discipleship, supportive, protective authority, teacher, nurturer.

·     Scriptural References: Ephesians 4:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:12, Acts 20:28, Matthew 23:37b, John 10:1-5, Psalm 28:9, Psalm 78:72.

U TEACHING:  The gift of teaching will give you the ability to share knowledge with members of the Body (children and/or adults) which will serve in building them up in Christ.  Your teaching will aid the growth and health of the Body. 

·     Actions:  Helps others understand God’s word and relate it practically to their lives; Communicates the Christian faith in ways that penetrate people’s hearts and minds and motivate people to live for God; Empowers and equips others for ministry by modeling their faith; conveys scripturally based, practical truths to the others; Helps new Christians understand God’s word so they can relate it to their lives; Prepares through extended times of study and reflection.

·     Characteristics:  Articulate; authoritative; perceptive, analytical.

·     Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:28, Romans 12:7, Ephesians 4:11, Acts 20:20-21, 2 Timothy 2:1-2.

U VOCAL MUSIC:  This “gift” or glorified talent will allow you to use your voice to sing praises to the Lord insuch a manner that those around you will feel strengthened and built up.

·     Actions:  Uses creative ways to deliver God’s word to His people using music; Captures and holds peoples’ attention as they consider the message of Christ; Challenges peoples’ perception of God with multiple artistic endeavors.

·     Characteristics:  Inventive, resourceful, people-oriented, imaginative, dynamic.

·     Scriptural References: Colossians 3:16, 11 Chronicles 5:12-13,  James 5:13.

TONGUES:  The special ability (1) to speak to God in a language they have never learned and/or (2) to receive and communicate an immediate message from God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance in a language they have never learned (see Mark 16:17; Acts 2:1-13; 10:44-46; 19:1-7; 1 Cor. 12:10, 28; 14:13-19).

VOLUNTARY POVERTY:  The special ability to serve God more effectively by renouncing material comfort and luxury and adopting a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society (see Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 13:1-3; 2 Cor. 6:10; 8:9).

U WISDOM:  The gift of wisdom will allow you to have a special understanding of situations which arise in people’s lives.  You will be able to offer counsel and advice.  As you do this, the Body of Christ will become more healthy and grow. 

·     Actions:  Sees the ramifications of problems and provides solutions in the midst of conflict and confusion; Combines insight, good judgment, perceptiveness, and diplomacy, Sorts out problems in the context of relationships; speaks the truth in love; Applies spiritual truth in specific and practical ways.

·     Characteristics:  Insightful, sensible, experienced, practical.

·     Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 12:8, Acts 6:3-10, 1 Corinthians 2:6-16.

U WRITING:  This “gift” or glorified talent will allow you to put your thoughts and ideas into words that will be meaningful and relevant to those who read them.  As they are read, people will find guidance, knowledge, courage or edification. 

·     Actions:  Uses creative ways to deliver God’s word to His people using poetry and/or written word; captures and holds peoples’ attention s they consider the message of Christ; Challenges peoples’ perception of God with multiple artistic endeavors.

·     Characteristics:  Inventive, resourceful, people-oriented, imaginative, dynamic.

·     Scriptural References: Psalm: 45:1, Philippians 3:1, Jude 1:3, Joshua 18:7-9, Isaiah 30:8, Revelation 1:18-20.

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Last Updated On 10/26/08