spiritual gifts or the fruit of the...
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Spiritual Gifts or The Fruit of the Spirit
A Warning!
We must be careful not to confuse Spiritual Gifts with The Fruit of the Spirit.
Both are evidences or proofs of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the life of the
believer. The Fruit of the Spirit is listed in Galatians 5:22-23 and is the behavioral pattern and actual character of Jesus Christ developed by the power and
presence of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual Gifts, on the other hand, refer to the capacities for service for Jesus Christ in the life of the believer.
To put it simply, the Fruit of the Spirit deals with attitude and character, while
Spiritual Gifts deal with actions of service for the Kingdom of God.
*Below is a helpful comparison of Fruit of the Spirit and Spiritual Gifts.
Gifts of the Spirit Fruit of the Spirit ~Related primarily to the collective ~Related primarily to the individual body of believers believers in the body
~Related to ministry ~Related to character
~May be classified as to order of ~All are essential importance
~May be exercised in such a manner ~Can never be misused
as to offend others and cause discord and division to the body ~No single believer receives all ~Every believer may bear all the fruits all the gifts the time
~No gift can be demanded of all ~All of us can be commanded to manifest
believers the fruits
We must never use our Spiritual Gifts (or lack thereof) as a “cop-out,”
quenching the Holy Spirit from bearing fruit in our lives. A follower of Christ should never say, “That’s not my gift” to any of the Fruit of the Spirit.
*Comparison taken from Larry Gilbert’s book Team Ministry, published by the Church Growth Institute.
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Benefits of the Gifts
It is important that you discover and develop the spiritual gifts God has bestowed on you. These gifts are desirable for three basic reasons:
God will be Glorified. According to 1Peter 4:10-11, your spiritual gifts are
ultimately designed to bring glory to God. This is your highest calling, and it relates to all three Persons of the Godhead. As you use your spiritual gifts in conjunction with the power and fruit (especially love) of the Holy Spirit, and in the name and Lordship of Jesus Christ, God the Father receives glory.
Others will be Edified. Remember that the primary purpose of spiritual gifts
is to build up and purify the church as the body and bride of Christ. Knowing and using your gifts will build up other members of the body. As you exercise your spiritual gifts, you will play a substantial role in serving other people and leading them to maturity (Ephesians 4:12-16).
You will be Satisfied. Knowing and using your gifts will give you an
understanding of the unique, indispensable ministry to which you have been called, and what role you will serve in the body of Christ. You will discover a significant part of your life’s purpose and realize God made you fully equipped to produce something that will last for eternity. You will have a sense of fulfillment and joy as you serve others and become a valuable instrument through whom the Holy Spirit can work.
Understanding your spiritual gifts will help you discern and affirm God’s will throughout your life. God will never ask you to carry out anything without equipping you with the power and ability to do it. (You will be able to make more intelligent decisions about opportunities and training in light of the gifts God has given you to help the body function as one and bring glory to God (Romans 12:4).) You will also be able to use your time more efficiently by focusing on the things you have been equipped to do well, rather than expending your energy in areas of minimum potential.
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*Six Steps to Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts
1) Pray and ask God to open your eyes and reveal your spiritual gifts to you.
2) Seek advice from mature Christians who have an understanding of
spiritual gifts.
3) Discard gifts that are obviously not yours.
4) Select three possibilities, after you’ve taken an assessment test.
5) Serve in a ministry. You’ll never discover your spiritual gifts until you get involved.
6) Look for satisfaction that comes from the Holy Spirit. When the Lord
gives you the desires of your heart, you will have a sense of fulfillment knowing you are serving out of your spiritual gifting. Also look for affirmation from others who recognize that this is one of your spiritual gifts.
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which
God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the
glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” ~ 1 Peter 4:10-11
Directions for taking this Spiritual Gift Assessment Test
The following Spiritual Gifts Test can give you a good idea of what your top three spiritual gifts are. To take the test, ask yourself each question and decide whether that statement is true of you. Then respond with the numerical rating as
follows: (Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
As much as possible, avoid circling the number ( □ 3 ). Don’t hesitate to
choose ( □ 1 ) or ( □ 5 ). Your desire to be humble or not exaggerate may cause you to chose more moderate responses. This might effect your results so try to be as honest as possible. When you are finished with the test, take the Score Sheet on pg. 31 out of your folder and record the number of your response in the box on the Score Sheet that corresponds to the question number on the test.
EXAMPLE
SCORE SHEET
10. When issues are being dealt with in a group I speak up rather than just listening.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
Pastor/
Prophecy Shepherd Teaching
1. 2. 3.
10. 5 11. 12.
X
1.When a situation needs to be corrected, I feel a burden to speak up about it in order
to correct it.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
2. I feel a special concern for less mature Christians and feel compelled to care for
them spiritually.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
3. I find it easy and enjoyable to spend time in intensive Bible study.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
4. I am able to help others identify problems and offer solutions.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
5. I don't understand why others don't give as much and as freely as I do.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
6. I am comfortable visiting people who are sick or disabled.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
7. I have a greater desire than most to witness to non-Christians.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
8. If there is no leadership in a group I will step up and take charge.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
9. I enjoy being called upon to do special jobs around the church.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
10. When issues are being dealt with in a group, I speak up rather than just listening.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
11. I find myself especially concerned that newer Christians will be influenced by false
teachers and be harmed in their spiritual growth as a result.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
12. Others sometimes accuse me of being too technical or detail-oriented.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
13. I would rather talk personally with someone rather than refer them elsewhere.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
14. I find myself looking for opportunities to give my money without being asked to give.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
15. I have a tendency to think about things for a while before making a decision.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
16. Witnessing to non-Christians comes easily to me.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
17. I enjoy handling the details of organizing ideas, people, resources, and time in order
to have more effective ministry.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
18. I feel that I am not specifically skilled, but I enjoy doing what needs to be done
around the church.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
19. I am able to make quick decisions and am seldom indecisive.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
20. I have a tendancy to be too involved, to the point that I fail to involve others;
People think that I should always be available and have all the answers.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
21. Others say that my communication style is stimulating, enthusiastic,
and easily understood.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
22. I enjoy encouraging people who are experiancing problems and trials.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
23. The quality of gifts I give is important to me.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
24. I am comfortable talking to those who are suffering physically and emotionally.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
25. I find myself constantly seeking for opportunities to witness for Christ.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
26. I make effective and efficient plans for accomplishing the goals of a group.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
27. I find it hard to say "no", which can lead to being overcommitment and
perceived as a workaholic.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
28. I am sometimes too honest with people and unintentionally offend them.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
29. It bothers me greatly when something wrong is taught in the church and
I seek to correct it immediately.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
30. I prefer to share the meaning of a Biblical phrase or concept rather than
simply quote a verse of Scripture.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
31. I am burdened to communicate how Scripture impacts our actions and conduct.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
32. I sense a great deal of joy in giving, regardless of the response of the one to
whom I gave.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
33. I sometimes let others use me and walk over me.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
34. I have been accused of being "pushy."
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
35. I hate procrastination but tend to be a perfectionist.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
36. I prefer being active and doing something rather than just sitting around talking,
reading, or listening to a speaker.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
37. I have a strong sense of duty and as a result I tend not to care what people
think about what I do.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
38. I am comfortable being responsible for the spiritual welfare and growth of
other Christians.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
39. I usually organize my thoughts in a systematic way.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
40. I enjoy one-on-one, person-to-person ministry more than group ministry.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
41. When I give my money to someone or something, I seek to avoid letting others
know about it.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
42. I have a hard time not being controlled by my circumstances.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
43. I have a constant burden for non-Christians to be saved and it often influences
what I do or say.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
44. I usually know what I need to be doing and delegate the rest to others.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
45. I respond cheerfully when asked to do a job, even if it seems trite.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
46. I have the ability to explain Biblical truth in such a way that it brings others to
repentance.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
47. I enjoy seeing others realize their potential for Christ.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
48. I find it gratifying to spend hours reading and studying.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
49. I have the ability to motivate others to action and to take the next step
in their spiritual journey.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
50. I enjoy helping people in need by sharing my resources with them.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
51. My friends say that I am loyal and available in their time of need.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
52. When I hear about non-Christians, I am immediately prompted to pray.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
53. I approach challenges with a logical, methodical method of problem solving.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
54. When I see something that needs to be done, I take initiative without being asked.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
55. Sometimes I am so honest with others that I may offend them.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
56. I love people and tend to be more relationship/people oriented than task oriented.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
57. I enjoy explaining new concepts and ideas with others.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
58. I readily see positive qualities in people and enjoy affirming them.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
59. I am thrifty and save money in order to help those who are less fortunate which
sometimes leads to others perceiving me as being stingy.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
60. I empathize with others’ feelings and pain.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
61. I share the Gospel every chance I get.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
62. The details necessary to accomplish an objective seem obvious to me.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
63. I am usually involved in a variety of activities and volunteer for many different jobs.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
64. I prefer straightforward, direct communication and avoid small talk.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
65. I am willing to study and spend a lot of time if necessary to help those I serve.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
66. Others often ask me to help them comprehend complex ideas.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
67. Friends often talk to me when they need support and encouragement.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
68. Friends say that I am generous.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
69. I have the ability to bring comfort to others in their darkest moments.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
70. My friends say that I have a unique ability to channel conversations
and to talk to folks about Jesus.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
71. Time-management is one of my strengths.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
72. I love to contribute to ministry from behind the scenes and would rather
not be recognized for my efforts
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
73. I say things out loud that others are thinking but are afraid to say.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
74. I tend to be a peacemaker and a problem solver.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
75. I have the ability to connect seemingly unrelated ideas and explain the
big picture.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
76. Others sometimes perceive me as being insincere because I am so optimistic, even
when things look grim.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
77. I take advantage of opportunities to give financially above and beyond
my usual tithes and offerings.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
78. I try to go the extra mile to keep peace and harmony in relationships.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
79. I routinely pray for people in my sphere of influence who
do not know Jesus.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
80. I am often too analytical and have a tendency to think too much.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
81. I am known as being faithful to follow through with my commitments.
(Least like me) □ 1 □ 2 □ 3 □ 4 □ 5 (Most like me)
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