Topical Encyclopedia The term "Gift of God" in the Bible refers to the divine blessings and graces bestowed upon individuals by God, often without merit or earning. These gifts can be spiritual, physical, or eternal in nature. One of the most profound references to the "Gift of God" is found in the New Testament, where it is often associated with salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage underscores the concept that salvation is a free gift from God, not something that can be achieved through human effort.Another significant mention is in Romans 6:23 , which states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Here, the contrast between the consequences of sin and the gift of eternal life highlights the transformative power of God's grace. The "Gift of God" is also seen in the context of spiritual gifts, which are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the edification of the church. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 , Paul explains, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." The "Gift of God" is not limited to spiritual gifts or salvation but also includes the provision of wisdom, peace, and other blessings that enable believers to live a life that honors God. James 1:17 reminds us, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow." This verse emphasizes the constancy and generosity of God in bestowing gifts upon His children. Spiritual Boldness Spiritual boldness is a quality that enables believers to proclaim their faith and live out their convictions with courage and confidence, even in the face of opposition or persecution. This boldness is not a natural human trait but is empowered by the Holy Spirit. In the early church, spiritual boldness was a defining characteristic of the apostles and early Christians. Acts 4:31 records, "After they had prayed, their meeting place was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." This passage illustrates how prayer and the filling of the Holy Spirit emboldened the believers to speak the truth without fear. The Apostle Paul is a prime example of spiritual boldness. Despite facing numerous hardships, he remained steadfast in his mission to spread the Gospel. In Ephesians 6:19-20 , Paul requests prayer for boldness, saying, "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given to me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should." This request highlights the importance of divine empowerment in maintaining boldness in ministry. Spiritual boldness is also linked to the assurance of one's faith and the truth of the Gospel. In 2 Timothy 1:7 , Paul encourages Timothy by stating, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control." This verse reassures believers that fear is not from God, and they are equipped with the power to stand firm in their faith. The source of spiritual boldness is ultimately rooted in a deep relationship with God and a reliance on His strength. Hebrews 4:16 invites believers to "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This confidence in approaching God translates into boldness in living out one's faith in the world. Subtopics The Gift of the Holy Spirit by the Father The Gift of the Holy Spirit by the Son The Gift of the Holy Spirit is Abundant The Gift of the Holy Spirit is Fruit Bearing The Gift of the Holy Spirit is Permanent The Gift of the Holy Spirit: A Pledge of the Continued Favour of God The Gift of the Holy Spirit: An Earnest of the Inheritance of the Saints The Gift of the Holy Spirit: An Evidence of Union With Christ The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given for Comfort of Saints The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given for Instruction The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given in Answer to Prayer The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: According to Promise The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: Through the Intercession of Christ The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: To the Gentiles The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: To Those Who Obey God The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: To Those Who Repent and Believe The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Given: Upon the Exaltation The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Received Through Faith The Gift of the Holy Spirit: To Christ Without Measure Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |