Common Misunderstandings About Spiritual Gifts
Hey there! Let’s clear up some misunderstandings about spiritual gifts, using simple examples and stories.
Misconception 1: Only Special People Have Spiritual Gifts
Truth: Every believer has spiritual gifts. God gives different gifts to everyone who follows Jesus.
Example: Imagine a family. Each person has different chores. One washes dishes, another takes out the trash, and another sweeps the floor. Everyone has an important job. Similarly, in God’s family, everyone has special gifts to help others.
Scriptural Reference: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” – 1 Corinthians 12:7
Misconception 2: Some Gifts Are More Important Than Others
Truth: All spiritual gifts are important. They all work together to help the church grow and serve others.
Example: Think of a puzzle. Every piece is different, but each piece is important to complete the picture. If one piece is missing, the puzzle isn’t complete.
Scriptural Reference: “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!'” – 1 Corinthians 12:21
Misconception 3: Spiritual Gifts and Fruits of the Spirit Are the Same
Truth: Spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit are different. Spiritual gifts are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to help the church. The fruit of the Spirit is the good qualities that grow in our lives when we follow Jesus.
Example: Think of a gardener. The gardener plants seeds and grows flowers (spiritual gifts). The gardener also grows good fruits like love, joy, and peace (fruit of the Spirit).
Scriptural Reference (Fruit of the Spirit): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Misconception 4: Spiritual Gifts Are for Personal Glory
Truth: Spiritual gifts are given to serve others and glorify God, not to make ourselves look good.
Example: Think of a chef who cooks delicious meals not just for themselves but to feed and bring joy to others. In the same way, we use our spiritual gifts to help others and honor God.
Scriptural Reference: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Summary
Understanding spiritual gifts is important! Remember, everyone who follows Jesus has spiritual gifts, and all gifts are important. Gifts and fruits of the Spirit are different—gifts are special abilities, while fruits are good qualities. Finally, our gifts are meant to serve others and glorify God, not ourselves. By using our gifts wisely, we can help our church and community grow in God’s love.
