kevinmcvicker.com

Gifts Of The Spirit

Before we survey the spiritual gifts, we will look at two Greek words used to describe the gifts of the Spirit: pneumatika refers to their source, the Holy Spirit (pneuma) of God; and charismata refers to the fact that they are granted as an act of God’s grace (charis). The spiritual gifts are given by grace and are not based on our worthiness or personal abilities; they are given according to God’s sovereign choice. The gifts are given by the Spirit of God; thus, the gifts are a part of the new life granted to us in Christ and may be drastically different from our perceived capabilities or desires prior to salvation. First Corinthians 12:4–7 explains: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” Believers will differ in their spiritual gifts, but all spiritual gifts are meant to be used for the edification of the body of Christ and to the glory of God.

A brief examination of three key texts (Romans 12:6–8; 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; 1 Peter 4:10–11) will help us see God’s design regarding His gifts.

One of the first things that becomes clear in these passages is the diversity of the gifts. Paul’s survey of spiritual gifts in Romans 12 includes different gifts than are found in 1 Corinthians 12. And when Peter spoke of the spiritual gifts in 1 Peter 4:10–11, he didn’t specify them but rather listed broad categories of the types of gifts God gives. Among the gifts listed in the Bible are prophecy, ministry, wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, teaching, exhorting, giving, ruling, showing mercy, speaking in languages, and interpreting languages. Whatever the specific use, each gift fits together with the other gifts, and they all work together as the parts of the body to make a functional whole (Romans 12:5).

In putting together a complete survey of the spiritual gifts, one must attempt to quantify and define the gifts. Romans 12 lists at least seven gifts, and 1 Corinthians 12 lists nine. There is some overlap in these lists, and there are certainly indications that there are more gifts than are itemized.

Here is a brief spiritual gifts survey from Dr. Larry Gilbert (modified from “How Many Spiritual Gifts Are There?”):

1. Miraculous Gifts
• Apostleship (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11)
• Tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10, 28, 30)
• Interpretation (1 Corinthians 12:10, 30)
• Miracles (1 Corinthians 12:10, 28)
• Healing (1 Corinthians 12:9, 28)

2. Enabling Gifts
• Faith (1 Corinthians 12:9)
• Discernment (1 Corinthians 12:10)
• Wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8)
• Knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8)

3. Team Gifts
• Evangelism: passionately leading others to the saving knowledge of Christ (Ephesians 4:11)
• Prophecy: boldly and fearlessly proclaiming God’s truth (Romans 12:6; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28)
• Teaching: making clear the truth of God’s Word with simplicity and accuracy (Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28)
• Exhortation: motivating others to action, application, and purpose (Romans 12:8)
• Shepherding: overseeing, training, feeding, coaching/leading (Ephesians 4:11)
• Serving: providing practical help both physically and spiritually (Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28)
• Mercy-showing: identifying with and comforting those in need (Romans 12:8)
• Giving: releasing material resources to further the work of the Church (Romans 12:8)
• Administration: organizing, administering, promoting, leading (Romans 12:8; 1 Corinthians 12:28)

In 1 Peter 4:9–11, Peter gives us two groups of Team Gifts:

1.“Speaking” gifts. Those who have the speaking gifts are Evangelists, Prophets, Teachers, Exhorters, and Shepherds.

2. “Ministering” gifts, or support gifts. People with these gifts emulate Christ in that He came not to be served, but to served (Mark 10:45). They have been blessed with self-forgetfulness as they focus on the needs of others. Ministering gifts include Shepherds, Mercy-Showers, Servers, Givers, and Administrators.

The Bible says we are given spiritual gifts for a purpose. In Romans 12:8 we are told to use the various gifts according to the character of God and His revealed will “with simplicity . . . with diligence . . . with cheerfulness.” In 1 Corinthians 12:24–25 we are told that “God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.” In 1 Peter 4:11 the purpose of the gifts is “that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.”

Spiritual Gifts

1 Corinthians 12

12 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

Going Deeper Into This Passage Of Scripture.

Therre are actually three groups of gifts, with three gifts in each group. The groups might be classified as:

  1. Gifts of Revelation.
  2. Gifts Of Power.
  3. Gifts Of Inspiration.

Based on a book titled “Questions and Answers On Spiritual Gifts” by Howard Carter.

Gifts Of Revelation

Pentecostal teacher Howard Carter defined the revelation gifts as three spiritual gifts that supernaturally reveal something previously unknown to the recipient. He categorized the nine gifts of the Spirit listed in 1 Corinthians 12 into three types: revelation, power, and utterance. 

According to Carter’s influential interpretation, the three revelation gifts are: 

  • The word of wisdom: A supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit concerning God’s purpose, plan, and will, often relating to the future. It is a fragment of divine wisdom given for a specific situation.
  • The word of knowledge: A supernatural revelation of facts about people, events, or circumstances from the past or present, which could not have been known naturally.
  • The discerning of spirits: A supernatural revelation that allows one to see into the unseen, spiritual world. Carter described it as the ability to perceive the presence and nature of spirits—whether demonic, angelic, or human—and to judge them. 

The Word Of Wisdom

In his book Questions & Answers on Spiritual Gifts, Pentecostal pioneer Howard Carter defines the “word of wisdom” as a supernatural revelation of God’s mind, purpose, and will. This spiritual gift offers supernatural insight into the divine plan and provides guidance on how to act on the “word of knowledge”—another spiritual gift that reveals facts or information. 
Key aspects of Carter’s definition
A fragment of divine wisdom: Carter described the word of wisdom as a “directive word” from God, a divine communication that reveals what God sees and has determined. It is not a complete, comprehensive revelation, but rather a fragment of God’s counsel that is given for a specific purpose.
Focus on the future: Carter’s view emphasizes that the word of wisdom often relates to future events or the divine direction concerning a given situation. In contrast to the word of knowledge, which might reveal something about the past or present, the word of wisdom reveals God’s plan for what is to come.
Supernatural and unearned: The insight provided by this gift is not gained through human study, education, or natural ability. It is a completely supernatural communication from the Holy Spirit.
Purpose is to guide and prepare: According to Carter, the word of wisdom serves to guide believers, prepare them for future events, and provide the supernatural solution to a problem or dilemma. It is meant to be used for the edification of the church. 

The Word Of Knowledge

Howard Carter defined the spiritual gift of the “word of knowledge” as a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit of facts in the mind of God. This information can concern events in the past or present and is not something a person could know through natural means. 
Key characteristics of Carter’s definition:
Supernatural revelation: The knowledge does not come from natural human intelligence, study, or intuition. It is a direct, divine impartation.
A “word” or fragment: It is not the full, infinite knowledge of God but a specific piece of information, or a “word,” given for a particular purpose. The knowledge is revealed as God wills, not at the will of the recipient.
Past or present facts: Unlike the “word of wisdom,” which typically reveals God’s purpose for the future, the word of knowledge deals with existing or past events and situations.
Not for personal gain: This gift, like all spiritual gifts, is not for the receiver’s personal benefit or to embarrass others. It is intended to build up the body of Christ.
Can be coupled with other gifts: The word of knowledge often works alongside other gifts, such as the word of wisdom, with the knowledge informing the direction provided by wisdom. 
Examples of the word of knowledge in scripture include:
Jesus revealing to the Samaritan woman at the well that she had five husbands.
The Apostle Peter supernaturally knowing that Ananias and Sapphira were lying about the money from their land sale.
The prophet Elisha knowing where his servant Gehazi had been after illegally taking money from Naaman.

The Discerning Of Spirits

Howard Carter defined the spiritual gift of discerning of spirits as a “supernatural revelation of the unseen world“. In his Pentecostal theology, this gift gives a believer the ability to look beyond the natural realm and see into the world of spirits. Carter is often cited for his teaching on this subject, especially in his book Spiritual Gifts and Their Operation. 
Key aspects of Carter’s definition include:
A spiritual “x-ray vision”: Carter famously wrote, “The telescope may reveal the galaxies of space, and the microscope the mysteries of the minute, but only the discerning of spirits can introduce us to the spirit world”.
Distinguishing between spirits: This supernatural insight allows a believer to identify the origin and nature of spiritual manifestations, determining whether they are from God, a human spirit, or a demonic spirit.
The power to judge: Carter’s definition includes the idea that the gift “carries with it the power to judge” the source of a spiritual manifestation.
Not natural discernment: Carter was careful to distinguish this spiritual gift from natural discernment, which is the ability to perceive and judge character or motives based on natural senses. He emphasized that the gift of discerning of spirits is a divine, supernatural ability, not a form of human intuition or suspicion.
Purpose for ministry: The gift is given to believers for practical purposes in ministry, including helping to deliver people from demonic torment and revealing the truth behind supernatural events. 

Gifts Of Power

Howard Carter defined the “gifts of power” as three specific spiritual gifts: the gift of special faith, the gifts of healings (plural), and the working of miracles. These are supernatural endowments that enable God’s power to be demonstrated through believers by altering, suspending, or working against the ordinary course of natural law and events to accomplish His will. 

The Three Gifts of Power:

  1. The Gift of Special Faith: This is a supernatural impartation of God’s faith into the heart, not the faith required for salvation, but a special spiritual faith to believe God can act in a specific situation, enabling belief to move mountains or bring about results without human energy or means. 
  2. The Gifts of Healings (plural): This supernatural ability is manifested for the healing of physical, emotional, or spiritual sickness and disease, without any natural source or means. The plural “gifts” signifies different kinds of healings or different areas of healing that the Holy Spirit can manifest. 
  3. The Working of Miracles: This is a supernatural demonstration and action of God’s power to control, suspend, or alter the natural forces and laws of nature. Unlike the gift of faith, this gift is a working or action that a person is involved in as a vessel for God to work through. 

Common Purpose:

All of these gifts, along with the revelation and utterance gifts, share the common purpose of building up the body of Christ. They are given by the Holy Spirit not as a sign of maturity or merit, but for service and the common good. 

The Gift Of Faith

Howard Carter defines the “Gift of Faith” as a supernatural, Spirit-given faith to believe that God can act in a specific situation, enabling believers to trust Him to undertake supernaturally, separate from the faith used for salvation. . This gift is not a result of the individual’s effort or energy but a divine impartation that produces results without human intervention. 
Key Aspects of the Gift of Faith according to Carter:
Supernatural impartation: 
The gift of faith is a divine bestowal of faith from God’s Spirit to a believer’s heart. 
Different from salvation faith: 
It is distinct from the general faith required to become a Christian. 
Enables belief in divine action: 
This specialized faith allows a person to believe that God can do something in a supernatural way in a particular situation. 
Operates beyond natural ability: 
It operates as a power that comes directly from God through the individual. 
Provides confidence and eliminates doubt: 
Those who have this gift experience a certainty in God’s ability to act, removing doubt and concern. 

The Working Of Miracles

Howard Carter, a pioneer in the Pentecostal movement, defined the gift of the working of miracles as a supernatural demonstration of God’s power that suspends, controls, or alters the laws of nature. 
In his book Spiritual Gifts and Their Operation, which compiled his lectures on the subject, Carter provided one of the foundational systematizations of the gifts of the Spirit for Pentecostal and charismatic theology. 
Key aspects of Carter’s definition
Supernatural intervention: The gift is an instantaneous, divine intervention in the ordinary course of nature that allows a believer to accomplish something that would be otherwise impossible.
Beyond faith: Carter clarified the distinction between the “working of miracles” and the “gift of faith.” He taught that while all spiritual gifts are miraculous, the gift of faith involves receiving a supernatural assurance from God to believe for a miracle, while the working of miracles involves actively performing the miraculous deed itself. He stated that the working of miracles “is a WORKING” that involves human action, unlike the gift of faith.
Demonstration of power: The purpose of the gift is to confirm God’s sovereign power and to build up and edify the church, serving as a witness to believers and unbelievers alike.
Bible examples: Carter drew on scriptural examples to illustrate the gift, such as:Moses parting the Red Sea.
Elisha dividing the Jordan River with Elijah’s mantle.
The floating axe head in 2 Kings.
Turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. 

The Gift Of Healing

The gift of healing is a miraculous manifestation of the Holy Spirit for the purpose of removing all manner of human affliction.
In his influential book Questions and Answers on Spiritual Gifts, Carter explains the following key characteristics: 
Supernatural manifestation: Carter states that the gifts of healings are a miraculous manifestation of the Holy Spirit, not a natural ability or skill.
Purpose: The goal is the “banishment of all human ills,” including organic, functional, nervous, acute, and chronic diseases.
Plural form: Carter noted that the biblical reference to the “gifts of healings” is in the plural. He interpreted this to mean that the Spirit may impart different healing abilities for different types of ailments. For instance, one person might be used to heal one type of disease, and another person for a different type.
Distinct from miracles: Unlike the “working of miracles,” which suspends the laws of nature, healing restores a person’s health. It operates within a person’s physical, mental, or emotional needs to restore what was already present.
Giftedness: Carter clarifies that possessing the gift of healing does not mean a person can heal everyone. The manifestation of the gift is always subject to the will of the Holy Spirit. 

Gifts Of Inspiration

The “inspiration” gifts are those that “say something”. Carter divided the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit outlined in 1 Corinthians 12 into three categories: revelation, power, and inspiration. 

The three inspirational or “vocal” gifts are: 

  • Prophecy: A supernatural utterance from God to people, spoken in a known language. Carter emphasized that this is not foretelling the future but rather a message from the Holy Spirit to the church.
  • Divers kinds of tongues: An utterance by the Holy Spirit in a language unknown to the speaker.
  • Interpretation of tongues: A supernatural explanation of a message previously given in an unknown tongue. 

The Gift Of Prophesy

The gift of prophecy is a divinely inspired utterance or inspired speech.. It is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit, which all believers can experience, distinct from the specific office of a prophet. 
Key aspects of Carter’s definition
Inspired utterance: Prophecy is a supernatural ability to speak forth the Word of God, though it is not a direct revelation in the same way as scripture. The Holy Spirit can bring things to the speaker’s mind that they would not have known on their own.
For edification, exhortation, and consolation: Following the biblical definition in 1 Corinthians 14:3, Carter taught that the primary purpose of prophecy is to build up, encourage, and comfort believers.
Distinct from the office of a prophet: In his teachings, Carter distinguished between the gift of prophecy and the office of a prophet. While anyone can receive a gift of prophecy, the office of a prophet is reserved for a smaller number of people within the body of Christ.
Intelligible and public: Carter saw prophecy as more significant for public worship than speaking in tongues because it is intelligible and therefore edifies the church as a whole. While tongues are directed toward God and build up the individual, prophecy is directed toward people and builds up the collective body of believers.
Timely application of God’s Word: In one of his sermons, Carter suggests that a good definition of prophecy is “the Holy Spirit taking the timeless word of God and making it timely, applying to the here and now”. 

The Gift Of Tongues

 The gift of tongues is both the initial evidence of the Holy Spirit’s infilling and continual, lifelong experience for private prayer and worship. 

Based on his teachings, the gift has several distinct functions: 

  • Initial evidence: For Carter and many Pentecostals, speaking in tongues is the primary sign that a believer has received the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
  • Personal prayer language: It is a “flowing stream” that enriches one’s personal spiritual life by enabling direct communication with God. This intimate, spirit-to-spirit prayer is not understood by the human mind and is meant to edify the individual believer.
  • Public ministry with interpretation: In a corporate setting, a message given in tongues must be interpreted to edify, encourage, and comfort the entire church, strengthening the body of Christ. When interpreted, a message in tongues is equivalent to prophecy.
  • Supernatural utterance: Carter understood the gift as a supernatural utterance in a language previously unknown to the speaker, whether it is a human language or a divine one. 

1 Corinthians 14


Prophecy and Tongues
14 Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. 2 For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3 On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. 4 The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. 5 Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.
6 Now, brothers,[a] if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7 If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? 8 And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? 9 So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. 10 There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, 11 but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. 12 So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.
13 Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. 15 What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. 16 Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider[b] say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? 17 For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.Use this paragraph section to get your website visitors to know you. Write about you or your organization, the products or services you offer, or why you exist. Keep a consistent communication style. Consider using this if you need to provide more context on why you do what you do. Be engaging. Focus on delivering value to your visitors.

The Gift Of Interpretation Of Tongues

The interpretation of tongues as the supernatural ability to understand and convey a message from God that was spoken in an unknown language. It is not a learned translation but an inspired utterance of the Holy Spirit meant to edify the church community. 
Based on his theology, the interpretation of tongues functions as follows:
Supernatural, not learned. Carter taught that the interpretation is not a natural act of translation, where one has learned the language, but a supernatural act of the Holy Spirit. It is a divine gift, similar to the other spiritual gifts like prophecy or the word of knowledge.
For edification, not exhibition. In line with the apostle Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 14, Carter believed that the purpose of interpreted tongues in a church service is to build up and encourage the assembly. An uninterpreted message in tongues only edifies the speaker, but with an interpretation, it serves to edify the entire church. This interpretation essentially makes the message functionally equivalent to prophecy.
Distinct from personal devotion. While speaking in tongues as a private prayer language is for personal spiritual enrichment, the public use of tongues requires an interpretation to be beneficial to others. Carter highlighted that a distinction exists between the private and public functions of the gift.
Works with the gift of tongues. The gift of interpretation must work in conjunction with someone speaking a public message in tongues. Carter noted that the message could be interpreted by the speaker or by another person in the congregation, but it was vital that an interpretation was given for the church to understand and benefit from the message.

The Offices Of The Church

Ephesians 4

11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

Going Deeper Into This Passage Of Scripture.

Jesus gave to the church five offices in order to build up the body of Christ:

  1. Apostles
  2. Prophets
  3. Evangelist
  4. Pastors
  5. Teachers

The Apostle


The word “apostle” comes from the Greek word apostolos, which means “one who is sent” or “messenger.” In the biblical context, it refers to someone who is sent out with a specific commission or mission, especially by Jesus Christ.

Apostles were chosen and appointed directly by Jesus Christ. For example, the twelve disciples were specifically selected by Jesus to be His apostles (see Matthew 10:1-4; Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-16).

In Acts 1:21-22, one of the criteria for replacing Judas Iscariot was that the new apostle had to have been with Jesus during His ministry and to have witnessed His resurrection.
Apostles were given authority to preach, teach, perform miracles, and lay the foundation of the early Church (see Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:42-43; Ephesians 2:19-20).
According to Ephesians 2:20, the Church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone.”

The most well-known apostles are the original twelve disciples of Jesus. However, the New Testament recognizes others as apostles, such as Paul, who describes himself as “an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father” (Galatians 1:1). Barnabas, James (the brother of Jesus), and others are also referred to as apostles in the early Church.

Today, the term “apostle” is used in several ways:

  • Church Founders and Pioneers: Some Christian groups use “apostle” to describe individuals who establish new churches or ministries, especially in regions where Christianity is not well established. These people are seen as spiritual pioneers, similar in role (though not in status) to the original apostles.
  • Spiritual Authority: In certain charismatic and Pentecostal movements, “apostle” is a title given to leaders who exercise significant spiritual authority, oversee multiple congregations, and provide guidance and governance to other church leaders.
  • Missionary Work: The term may also be applied to those who are sent out in missionary capacities, echoing the “sent out” nature of the original apostles. The Greek word “apostolos” literally means “one who is sent.”

Theological Considerations

There is debate among Christians regarding the legitimacy of using the title “apostle” today. Some denominations teach that apostleship was a unique office limited to the first-century church and is not transferable to later generations. Others believe that the spiritual gifts and offices described in the New Testament, including apostleship, continue to be relevant and can be bestowed by God on contemporary believers.

Criteria for Modern Apostleship

While there is no universally accepted standard, common criteria cited for calling a person an apostle today include:

  • Demonstrated leadership and oversight of multiple churches or ministries
  • Evidence of spiritual gifts, such as teaching, prophecy, or miracles
  • Recognition and affirmation by other church leaders and communities
  • A clear sense of being “sent” by God for a specific mission or purpose

The basis for calling a person an apostle today largely depends on theological interpretation, denominational tradition, and recognition of spiritual authority or pioneering work. While some Christian groups reserve the title for historical figures, others use it to honor those who continue the mission of spreading the gospel and establishing communities of faith.

In summary, according to the Bible, an apostle is a person who is sent by Jesus Christ with authority to preach the gospel, establish and guide the Church, and serve as a witness to His resurrection. The role is foundational and unique, particularly in the context of the early Church.

The Prophet

A prophet, according to the Bible, is a person chosen and called by God to deliver His messages to people. Prophets serve as God’s spokespersons, communicating divine will, guidance, warnings, or revelations. Their messages may concern current events, future predictions, or spiritual truths.
Prophets are selected by God, not self-appointed. Their authority comes from their relationship with God.
They convey God’s words, often beginning their speeches with phrases like “Thus says the Lord.”
Prophets sometimes predict future events (foretelling), but often they speak about present circumstances, urging people to return to God (forthtelling).
Many prophets pray or plead with God on behalf of the people.
Some prophets perform miracles or signs to validate their message.

Notable prophets in the Bible include Moses, Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and, in the New Testament, John the Baptist. Each was called by God to speak to His people and guide them according to His will.
Scriptural References
Deuteronomy 18:18: “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.”
Amos 3:7: “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”
2 Peter 1:21: “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

In summary, the biblical definition of a prophet is someone appointed by God to speak His messages to humanity. Their primary function is to reveal God’s will, call people to repentance, and sometimes foretell future events. The authority and authenticity of a prophet are rooted in their divine calling and the truthfulness of their message.

The Evangelist

The word “evangelist” comes from the Greek word euangelistes, which means “one who brings good news.” It is closely related to euangelion, meaning “gospel” or “good news.” In the Bible, an evangelist is someone who proclaims the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Biblical References
Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” This verse lists evangelists as one of the key offices or roles in the early church, distinct from apostles, prophets, and teachers.
Acts 21:8 – Here, Philip is specifically called “Philip the evangelist,” highlighting his role in spreading the Gospel.
2 Timothy 4:5 – Paul instructs Timothy, “Do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” This encourages believers to actively share the message of Christ.

Biblically, an evangelist is someone who:
Proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have not heard it.
Encourages and strengthens believers in their faith.
Equips others to share the good news.
May travel or minister in various places, as seen in the example of Philip in the Book of Acts.

The evangelist is considered a gift to the church, essential for its growth and outreach. Evangelists are called to reach out beyond the church walls, bringing the message of hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to all people.

In summary, the biblical definition of an evangelist is a person specially gifted and called to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ, both to unbelievers and within the church. Their role is pivotal in spreading the Christian faith and nurturing spiritual growth among believers.

The Pastor

The word “pastor” comes from the Latin word “pastor,” which means “shepherd.” In the Bible, the image of the shepherd is frequently used to describe leaders who care for and guide God’s people. The Old Testament often refers to leaders as shepherds, and this metaphor is carried into the New Testament to describe church leaders.
Biblical References to Pastors
The term “pastor” is directly mentioned in Ephesians 4:11 (New Testament), where it lists “pastors and teachers” among the gifts Christ has given to the church. The Greek word used here is “poimen,” which also means “shepherd.” The role is closely connected to spiritual leadership, guidance, and care.
Ephesians 4:11: “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers…”
Jeremiah 3:15: “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
1 Peter 5:2: “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you…”

Biblically, a pastor is entrusted with the spiritual care of a group of believers, often referred to as a “flock.” Key responsibilities include:
Pastors are called to teach and proclaim God’s Word faithfully.
They guide, counsel, and support members in their spiritual growth.
Pastors protect their congregation from false teachings and spiritual harm.
The Bible emphasizes that pastors should lead with humility, integrity, and love, modeling Christ-like behavior.

The New Testament outlines qualifications for pastors (sometimes called elders or overseers) in passages such as 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. These include being above reproach, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, able to teach, not violent, and not greedy for gain.
1 Timothy 3:2: “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach…”
Titus 1:7-9: “…he must be blameless… not arrogant or quick-tempered… but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined…”

In summary, the biblical definition of a pastor centers on the idea of a shepherd—one who lovingly leads, feeds, protects, and cares for God’s people. The role is marked by spiritual leadership, teaching, and exemplary character, as described throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

The Teacher

In the Old Testament, the role of a teacher was closely associated with religious leaders, priests, prophets, and elders. Teachers were responsible for imparting God’s laws, wisdom, and commandments to the people. For instance, Moses is often regarded as a teacher because he conveyed God’s instructions to Israel (Deuteronomy 4:1-2). The Hebrew word “moreh” (מורה) is commonly used for “teacher,” meaning one who instructs or guides.
Priests taught the law and its application to daily life (Leviticus 10:11).
Prophets instructed people about God’s will and future events (Isaiah 8:20).
Wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, frequently mentions the importance of teaching and learning.

In the New Testament, the role of a teacher expands within the context of the early Christian church. The Greek word “didaskalos” (διδάσκαλος) is used for “teacher,” signifying one who imparts knowledge or doctrine. Jesus Himself is often called “Teacher” by His disciples and others (John 13:13), emphasizing His authority to teach about God’s kingdom and truth.
Jesus’ teachings serve as the foundation for Christian doctrine and moral living.
The apostles and early church leaders were also recognized as teachers who explained Scripture and guided believers (Acts 13:1; Ephesians 4:11).
Teaching is listed as a spiritual gift in the church, highlighting its importance in building up the body of Christ (Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28).

According to Scripture, a biblical teacher is expected to possess certain spiritual qualities:
Knowledgeable: Well-versed in God’s Word and doctrine.
Faithful: Committed to truth and integrity in teaching.
Patient: Able to instruct with gentleness and perseverance (2 Timothy 2:24).
Humble: Willing to learn and submit to God’s authority.
Spirit-Led: Dependent on the guidance of the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding.

In summary, the biblical definition of a teacher is someone who imparts knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual truth, guiding others in understanding and living according to God’s will. The teacher’s role is foundational in both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a channel for God’s instruction, encouragement, and correction.

Serve God with Spiritual Gifts

Paul addresses the need for service within the body of Christ in Romans 12:3-8

3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

The Source Of Every Good Gift

James Chapter 1

15Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

16Do not err, my beloved brethren.

17Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

18Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

 

The Gift Of Righteousness

Romans Chapter 5

14Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

15But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

16And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.

17For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

The Gift Of Eternal Life

Romans Chapter 6

21What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.

22But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

23For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The Gift Of Grace

Ephesians Chapter 3

5Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

7Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

8Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

Exercise Your Gifts

1 Peter Chapter 4

8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

9Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

10As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

11If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.