Gifts That Differ

“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.” -Romans 12:6–8

Paul makes it clear that believers—and not only ordained ministers—have been endowed with spiritual gifts meant to benefit the body of Christ in particular and the world around us in general. Scholars are divided as to whether this list is meant to be list of examples or a comprehensive list. They are further divided with respect to the actual meaning of some of the functions. Because Paul provides similar lists that differ in number and function elsewhere in his writings (1 Corinthians 12:8-10 Cf Ephesians 4:11), I tend to believe Paul’s lists are illustrative of the various functions that are available to meet the needs of the congregation and community where believers are living in covenant with one another.

William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker give a summary list of the seven functions mentioned in this passage as:

1. prophesying
2. rendering practical service
3. teaching
4. exhorting
5. contributing to the needs of people
6. exercising leadership
7. showing mercy.

Prophecy is always listed in the place of preeminence but it is by no means limited to prognostication (declaring of future events). It also includes instruction, reproof, and rebuke. It is in essence to declare the will of God. But Paul makes clear this is to be done in proportion (in accordance with our faith). The prophecy must be in accordance with revealed truth, namely apostolic preaching and later, Scripture.

The word for service is diakonia, meaning, practical service or ministry. It is from this word, we get the ministry of the deacon.

Teaching is from didasko, which means to instruct. In the context, it means specifically to instruct believers how to apply the teachings of the Old Testament, Jesus, and the apostles.

Exhorting is from parakeleo and means to urge or encourage into action.

Contribute means to give to the needs of others without any ulterior motives. Paul says the those who are disposed to meet the needs of others with material goods, should do so with generosity.

One who leads refer to overseers and elders (1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 3:4; 5:17). This work of governing, organizing, and overseeing should be done with diligence (zeal).

One who does acts of mercy refers to those who minister to the bereaved, ill, or dying—the Mother Theresa’s of the church. These are to carry out this heavy burden with cheerfulness.