The three groups of supernatural spiritual gifts
First, gifts for the establishment of the church and for bringing it to a maturity where all the members can receive their own gifts and contribute to the up-building of the local body (Ephesians 4:11–16). These are the apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor-teachers who are chosen by the Lord, taken captive by Him, and given as gifts to the Church, not just to some particular local church.
In each ministry more than an occasional manifestation of a gift of the Spirit is involved. Like the first apostles, these are mature, trained people, who were not sent out until they had gained experience under the great Teacher (Jesus, then the Teacher Spirit, the Spirit of Truth). Their ministry was not limited to one local church. They sooner or later moved on, because they were given to the Church as a whole.
Second, gifts of the edification of the local body through individual members. These are specific manifestations of spiritual gifts given as they are needed and as the Spirit wills. They may be exercised by any member of the congregation. However, in some cases, even in local congregations a ministry may develop along the line of some gift, so that in this sense some may be called prophets, interpreters, or workers of miracles (1 Corinthians 12:29; 14:28). But this does not mean they “have” the gift in the sense of the gift being resident in them.
Second, gifts of the edification of the local body through individual members. These are specific manifestations of spiritual gifts given as they are needed and as the Spirit wills. They may be exercised by any member of the congregation. However, in some cases, even in local congregations a ministry may develop along the line of some gift, so that in this sense some may be called prophets, interpreters, or workers of miracles (1 Corinthians 12:29; 14:28). But this does not mean they “have” the gift in the sense of the gift being resident in them.
They are still the Spirit’s gifts, with each expression received directly from Him as He wills. It is important also, that all these gifts are ministered in the context of the body. There is a spontaneity about them. But they are not to be exercised according to the individual’s own feelings, but according to the directions of the Word (1 Corinthians 14), and according to the dictates of courtesy and love. Nor do these gifts make a person independent of the help of others. Paul’s letters all show how much he depended on the help and prayers of the people in the churches.
Third, gifts for service and outreach. These include administration, ruling, ministry, giving, helps, mercy, and exhortation. Other gifts overlap into this group also. Prophecy, faith, miracles, and healings certainly contribute to outreach.
Horton, S. M. (2005). What the Bible Says about the Holy Spirit (pp. 263–264). Springfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House.
Third, gifts for service and outreach. These include administration, ruling, ministry, giving, helps, mercy, and exhortation. Other gifts overlap into this group also. Prophecy, faith, miracles, and healings certainly contribute to outreach.
Horton, S. M. (2005). What the Bible Says about the Holy Spirit (pp. 263–264). Springfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House.
