Topical Encyclopedia The miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit, as described in the New Testament, were extraordinary abilities granted to believers for the edification of the Church and the furtherance of the Gospel. These gifts included speaking in tongues, prophecy, healing, and other manifestations of divine power. The early Church was instructed to value and utilize these gifts appropriately, recognizing their divine origin and purpose.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, provides significant teaching on the use and appreciation of spiritual gifts. In 1 Thessalonians 5:19-20 , Paul admonishes the believers, "Do not extinguish the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt." This instruction underscores the importance of respecting and valuing the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy, which was a means of receiving direct revelation from God. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 12-14, Paul elaborates on the diversity and unity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. He emphasizes that these gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7) and that each gift has its place and purpose within the Church. Paul encourages believers to "eagerly desire the greater gifts" (1 Corinthians 12:31) and to pursue love as the guiding principle in the exercise of these gifts (1 Corinthians 13). Purpose and Edification The miraculous gifts were intended to build up the Church, confirm the message of the Gospel, and demonstrate the power of God among His people. In Ephesians 4:11-12 , Paul writes, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ." The gifts were not for personal glory or gain but for the edification and unity of the Church. Warnings Against Despising the Gifts Despising or neglecting the gifts of the Holy Spirit can lead to spiritual stagnation and division within the Church. Paul warns against quenching the Spirit, which can occur when believers dismiss or undervalue the gifts. In 1 Corinthians 14:39-40 , he advises, "So, my brothers, be eager to prophesy and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." This instruction highlights the need for balance—valuing the gifts while ensuring their orderly and edifying use. Historical Context In the early Church, the miraculous gifts were a vital part of the Christian experience, serving as a testament to the truth of the Gospel and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Apostolic Fathers and early Church leaders recognized the importance of these gifts and sought to maintain their proper use within the community of believers. Contemporary Application While the nature and continuation of miraculous gifts are subjects of theological debate, the principle of valuing and respecting the work of the Holy Spirit remains relevant. Believers are encouraged to seek the Spirit's guidance, to be open to His workings, and to use their God-given gifts for the benefit of the Church and the glory of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Thessalonians 5:20Despise not prophesyings. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Gifts no Certain Evidence of Grace. The Foundation of the Church among the Jews The Day of Pentecost. Acts xvi. 25, 26 The Extension of the Church Throughout the World Acts XIX On the Words, and in one Holy Catholic Church, and in the ... Of the Five Sacraments, Falsely So Called. Their Spuriousness ... Hebrews x. 26, 27 Witnessing Better than Knowing the Future Resources Is cessationism biblical? What is a cessationist? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the purpose of the biblical sign gifts? | GotQuestions.org What is the spiritual gift of healing? | GotQuestions.org Miraculous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit of Different Kinds Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Despised Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Neglected Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Purchased Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were to be Sought After Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Christ Was Endued With Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated by the Laying on of the Apostles' Hands Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Confirmation of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Edification of the Church Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated: Upon the Preaching of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Counterfeited by Antichrist Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Dispensed According to his Sovereign Will Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Enumerated Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Foretold Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Might be Possessed Without Saving Grace Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Poured out on the Day of Pentecost Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Temporary Nature of Related Terms |
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