Msg #1934 Gifts Measured By Your Faith

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan's Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

Romans 12 lists the seven gifts given for the edification of the church. Charismatics and other mislead groups are told to “pursue your spiritual gifts” and are given the list of nine gifts boasted by the most carnal church in the whole New Testament. The Apostle Paul reprimands fifteen ailments of the carnal church in fifteen chapters of his letter to Corinth. The twelfth is the misuse of gifts and it is not wise to use Corinth's boasted gift list as a model. Romans 12 says, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith.” Gifts are in each local church so that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. They are given to edify, strengthen, and perfect the saints. They are given “in measure.” The Holy Ghost is not given in measure, praise the Lord, but faith, because it cometh by hearing, and doing, and and adding, is given in measure. Thus these seven gifts are given in measure. That is why we prophecy, i.e. stand and say “Thus saith the Lord...”, “according to the proportion of faith.” That is why we “wait on our ministering... on our teaching... on our exhortation.” You enhance your gift by growing your faith, ... you must ultimately “add to your faith...” (2Peter 1). Gregory's “Seven Laws of Teaching” (or Hendricks' revision) won't hurt, but your gift grows as your faith grows. Giving, ruling, shewing mercy, these gifts are given according to the measure of your faith. If you desire spiritual gifts, use this list from Romans 12, grow your faith, and follow after charity. It is quite simple, really. For the good of your local church, do something to grow your faith this week.

An Essay for week #34 Aug 25, 2019

Msg in audio at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/audio/gs190825.mp3

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