In the New Testament various gifts are mentioned that God has given to His church to enable His people to grow, serve, evangelize and live an abundant life. The Father’s gifts are listed in Romans 12:6-8. These are the gifts of prophecy, ministry or practical service in the church, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership and mercy or compassion. These gifts are known as creational gifts, talents or qualities we were born with. People may exhibit several of these gifts but usually one is dominant. The gifts of the Holy Spirit edify and benefit the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:7-11), These gifts are not owned by anyone but given to individuals as and when the Holy Spirit desires. These gifts are: words of wisdom, words of knowledge bringing clarity and direction, and a special power of faith. Other spiritual gifts are those of healing, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, good or evil, tongues and the interpretation of tongues.
Finally, there are the ministry gifts of Christ: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers (Eph 4:11-16). These last gifts are to edify, build up, equip and bring unity to the church.
It is so clear that we all need to discover our creational gifts, be open to be used by the Holy Spirit and eager to benefit from the ministry gifts in our churches and discern if we are called to operate in any of them. The church is strongest when we all understand and correctly embrace God’s gifts.