One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is that of exhortation. Paul wrote to the Romans about this particular gift He said.
We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness (Romans 12:6-8 NRSV).
The gift of exhortation is listed separately from the gift of teaching. The word exhortation comes from a root word that means “to advocate or comfort.” In fact, it comes from the same Greek word, paraclete from which the term “Helper” or “Comforter” – the title of the Holy Spirit.
The Exhorter Is One Who Encourages
Exhortation is a gift that enables a person to encourage others to become mature in Jesus Christ. Those with the gift of exhortation will attempt to bring out the best in people. Indeed, it is to bring them to spiritual maturity. Exhortation includes rebuking fellow believers for their sins. It is not the same as teaching – it is a call to action. Jude wrote.
Beloved, while eagerly preparing to write to you about the salvation we share, I find it necessary to write and appeal to you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints (Jude 3NRSV).
Jude was exhorting the people to agonize, or struggle, for the faith. This is what the person with the gift of exhortation does; it is a call to action!
A Teacher May Have the Gift of Exhortation
A teacher may have the gift of exhortation, as did the man Barnabas. We read the following description of him in the Book of Acts.
There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”) (Acts 4:36NRSV).
Note that his real name was Joseph but he was given the name Barnabas because of his encouragement of others.
We find that Barnabas encouraged the Apostle Paul when other apostles avoided him. We read about it in this manner.
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus (Acts 9:26, 27 NIV).
This is truly an important gift which Barnabas had. Indeed, when others shunned Paul Barnabas embraced him.
Barnabas also encouraged a man named John Mark who had failed in his ministry. We further read about this in episode in the Book of Acts. It says.
Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul decided not to take with them one who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus (Acts 15:37-39 NRSV).
The disagreement over John Mark caused Paul and Barnabas to go their separate directions.
Later, Paul said that John Mark was useful for service. He wrote the following to Timothy.
Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry (2 Timothy 4:11 ESV).
Seemingly, the ministry of Barnabas helped resolve the difficulty between John Mark and Paul. This again points out the need for this gift of encouragement to operate in the church.
Paul Had the Gift of Exhortation
The Apostle Paul also possessed this spiritual gift. He and Barnabas exhorted the believers.
They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said (Acts 14:21, 22 NIV).
Therefore, as we search the Scripture we find that exhortation, or encouragement, is a very important spiritual gift.
Summary – Question 7
What Is the Gift of Exhortation? (Encouragement)
The gift of exhortation is also known as the gift of encouragement. Depending upon the circumstances, the gift of exhortation can encourage, or rebuke, people in the church. A teacher should possess this gift, but not all those with the gift are teachers of God’s Word. The exhorter, or encourager, is one who calls people to action.
We find an example of this gift in the Apostle Barnabas. Scripture says that he encouraged Paul when he was a new believer. In fact, when Paul first came to Jerusalem as a new Christian he was shunned by the others.
They were afraid of him because of his reputation of persecuting the church. Barnabas not only encouraged Paul, he helped him join together with the other believers. Consequently, he performed a valuable service in this instance.
Indeed, we discover that Barnabas was actually named Joseph. His name was changed to Barnabas which means “one who encourages.” This encouragement continued. Barnabas also helped settle a problem between Paul and John Mark. For a time, Paul considered John Mark as being unprofitable in the ministry. Barnabas took John Mark along with him on a missionary trip when Paul refused to let him be part of his ministry. However, later Paul wrote that John Mark was profitable.
Again, the encouraging work of Barnabas was a huge help. From these examples, we can conclude that this is a spiritual gift that is greatly needed in the church. Indeed, while all Christians should be encouraging one another, we should be especially thankful for those who have this particular spiritual gift.
The Various Gifts of the Holy Spirit Part Two – Question 8
Giving is listed as a spiritual gift in the New Testament. Indeed, the Apostle. Paul wrote to the church at Rome about this gift.
We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness (Romans 12:6–8 NRSV).
From Scripture, there are a number of things that we can learn about the spiritual gift of giving. They can be summed up as follows.
All Believers Are Encouraged to Give
All believers are encouraged to be generous with their belongings. Paul made this point when he wrote to the Corinthians. He said.
Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7NRSV).
Each of us is to support the Christian ministry by giving part of what we have.
Paul wrote to the Romans about the need to reach out to others. In this instance, it is helping fellow believers who are in need.
When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night (Romans 12:13 NLT).
The Bible encourages believers to give to the work of the Christian ministry.
We Are to Give Freely
Jesus said to His disciples to give freely; we are to expect nothing in return. Matthew records Him saying the following.
Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give (Matthew 10:8 NASB).
The Contemporary English Version puts it this way.
Heal the sick, raise the dead to life, heal people who have leprosy, and force out demons. You received without paying, now give without being paid (Matthew 10:8 CEV).
These disciples received God’s blessings without paying for them. Now, in the same manner, they are to give without expecting money in return.
Jesus also said that believers are to give generously. Luke records Him saying the following about giving.
Give, and you will receive. A large quantity, pressed together, shaken down, and running over will be put into your pocket. The standards you use for others will be applied to you (Luke 6:38 God’s Word).
We should give generously out of the things which the Lord has given to us.
There Is a Gift of Sacrificial Giving
While all believers are to give, there is also a spiritual gift of sacrificial giving. It involves the giving of one’s own possessions, to others. This also includes giving money. Doing so actually brings satisfaction to that person. Indeed, the Apostle Paul, in quoting Jesus, emphasized the spiritual blessing which comes along with giving. He wrote.
I have given you an example that by working hard like this we should help the weak. We should remember the words that the Lord Jesus said, ‘Giving gifts is more satisfying than receiving them’ (Acts 20:35 God’s Word).
This is not a spiritual gift reserved for the wealthy. Anyone, no matter what his financial resources may be, can have the gift of giving.
The Philippian Church Helped Paul
The church at Philippi helped the Apostle Paul when he was in need. He recognized them when he wrote his letter to this church. We read.
And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again (Philippians 4:15, 16 ESV).
They were helpful to the Apostle Paul. Indeed, they partnered with him when other churches did not.
The New Testament Example of Dorcas: She Gave Sacrificially
Dorcas was a New Testament example of a person who gave sacrificially. We read about this in the Book of Acts. It says.
Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity (Acts 9:36 NRSV).
This is an indication that she had the spiritual gift of giving.
We Should Give Privately, Expecting Nothing in Return
Again it must be emphasized that giving is not to be done with the idea of gaining anything back. There is to be no thought of a return on an investment. Jesus taught the way that all believers should give.
When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don’t tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you (Matthew 6:2-4 NLT).
It also is done in a private way. People with this gift give anonymously and expect God to be the one to reward them. Indeed, He does.
Summary – Question 8
What Is the Gift of Giving?
All Christians should freely and happily give of their possessions for the work of the Lord. In fact, this is something which we all should do.
However there are some individuals who have a special gift of giving to meet the material needs of others. This is spiritual gift of giving. This gift is not reserved for the wealthy. Anybody, no matter what their financial status, can have this gift.
When Jesus sent out His disciples to minister to others, He told them to freely give. The idea is that they received God’s blessings without having to pay. Consequently, they themselves should give without expecting anything in return. This is the proper way to give.
Scripture provides a number of examples of Christians giving to the cause of Christ. We learn that the Philippian church helped the Apostle Paul with his needs. They partnered with him when others would not. He acknowledged their gracious act of giving.
There was also the example of a believer named Dorcas who gave of herself to others. She was so valuable to the early church that Simon Peter prayed to bring her back from the dead! Her gift of giving was extremely valuable.
We learn from Jesus that giving should be done in private. Indeed, there is to be no public demonstration or reward for our giving to the ministry. God is the One who rewards us for our faithfulness. We should not be looking for accolades or praise from others.
This brings up another important point about giving. We should give without any expectation of a financial return. Again, it is the Lord will be the One who gives a return on the investment.
In summary, we note that every believer should be giving of their possessions to the Christian ministry. There are some, however, who have a special gift in doing this; the gift of giving.
The Various Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part Two) – Question 9
The Bible says that the spiritual gifts include a gift of “faith.” Paul wrote to the Corinthians about this particular spiritual gift. He stated.
To another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:9NRSV).
Thus, there is a gift of faith. In looking at this gift, we also discover that there are a number of things that the Bible has to say about faith. They include the following.
All Believers Have Some Faith
All believers have a certain amount of faith. Indeed, without faith none of us would be Christians.
The writer to the Hebrews defined faith as a firm conviction about something. He wrote.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1 ESV)
The author then wrote.
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him (Hebrews 11:6 ESV).
According to this verse, we are not able to please God unless we have some amount of faith.
To the church at Rome, the Apostle Paul wrote about the measure of faith which believers have been given.
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned (Romans 12:3 NRSV).
Therefore, the Bible says that all Christians have a certain amount of faith.
There Is a Gift of Faith
While all believers possess some amount of faith, there is a gift of faith which is a special ability to trust God beyond the limits of what we think is normally possible. Not every believer possesses this gift.
Indeed, Paul spoke symbolically of the ability of faith “to move mountains.” He wrote the following to the Corinthians about this.
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1-2 NIV).
While we cannot actually move mountains with our faith, the idea is that faith can cause things to happen.
The martyr Stephen was a man who was full of faith. The Book of Acts says the following about him.
And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch (Acts 6:5 ESV).
Stephen’s faith was such that the Bible singled him out.
Faith Comes from Knowing God’s Word
Faith comes as a result of knowing God’s Word. Paul wrote the following to the Romans about the connection between knowing God’s Word and having faith.
So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17 NKJV).
Before one can exercise biblical faith they must personally know the God of the Bible and be able to hear His voice. One way in which God communicates to His people is through His written Word. This is how He speaks to us. Our responsibility is to respond to Him.
We Are Not to Look down on Those Who Lack Faith
If a person has been given the gift of faith, then they should not look down upon those who lack faith. Not every Christian possesses this spiritual gift. God the Holy Spirit alone decides who will receive it. Rather than rebuke a person for lacking faith those with the gift should pray that God increase the faith of those who need it.
Faith Is Not Merely Getting Things from God
The gift of faith should not be equated with only getting things from God. Too often, the idea is that the more faith we have the more things God will give us. Many times the emphasis is wrongly on the material rather than the spiritual blessings. Exercising great faith does not mean that material possessions will follow.
The Gift of Faith Is Exercised through Prayer
Often this gift is exercised through praying on behalf of others. Consequently many who have this gift may not be very well-known among other believers. However those exercising the gift are absolutely indispensable for the work of the ministry.
An Example of Faith – George Muller
An example of an individual who has exercised the gift of faith is George Muller. Muller, who lived in nineteenth-century England, had a great desire to help orphans. He spent his life educating them and building orphanages. By exercising the gift of faith, he was able to raise money, time and time again, for the needs of the orphans. Without ever appealing to humans, Muller amazingly had his needs met.
The successful missionary William Carey said, “Attempt great things for God–expect great things from God.” Those with the gift of faith are able to do this.
Summary – Question 9
What Is the Gift of Faith?
Scripture says that all believers have some amount of faith. Indeed, a person could not believe in Jesus Christ unless they exercised some faith.
Our faith increases as we learn more about God through His Word. In fact, the more we know about Him, and the more we learn to trust Him, the more we find our faith growing. Consequently there is a connection between knowing God and having faith in Him. Simply stated, the better we know Him the more we will be able to trust Him.
While faith is something that all believers have to a certain degree there is a special gift of faith that God gives to some Christians. It is important that we understand what this gift of faith is and what it is not.
The gift of faith seems to be a special ability to trust God in all circumstances. Often this gift is exercised through prayer. Usually it consists of praying for others. The person with this gift of faith will spend time in prayer believing that the Lord will do certain things as well as claiming His promises.
This means that many people who have this gift are unknown to other Christians since they exercise their gift in the presence of the Lord and Him alone. We should certainly not underestimate this particular usage of the gift of faith. While those with the gift of faith are able to trust God for certain things, the gift of faith does not mean that the believer will be able to acquire abundant material possessions. Scripture emphasizes the spiritual, not the material.
Great faith, therefore, does not mean that material blessings will always follow. The granting of material blessings is ultimately up to the Lord; not the person who is exercising faith.
Indeed, the great things for God are always spiritual, never material. The material things will perish while the spiritual things are eternal. Those with the gift of faith, who properly exercise their gift, do so in the spiritual realm. This is where the battles are fought as well as where the victories are won.
The Various Gifts of the Holy Spirit Part Two – Question 10
When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, he referred to the gift of ministering, or helps. He explained it this way.
And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping (1 Corinthians 12:28 ESV).
There are a number of things that we learn from Scripture about this particular gift. This includes the following.
The Gift Has the Idea of Supporting Those in Need
The word translated “helps” comes from the Greek word antilapseis. It has the idea of a support or help. It is derived from a verb that is used in the Book of Acts that is translated as, “weak.” Paul wrote
In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35NRSV).
This has the idea of the giving of assistance to those who are in need.
In the list of spiritual gifts in Romans, Paul used the Greek word diakonos for the people who serve or minister. This is where the words “deacon” and “deaconess” are derived. Paul wrote the following words to this church.
So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach (Romans 12:5–7 NIV). The gift of “helps” seems to be the same thing as the gift or ministering or serving. While there may be some distinction that can be made between serving and helping, there is much overlap. We will treat them as one gift.
The Gift of Ministering Helps the Church in a Supporting Role
The gift of ministering is given to people to help the work of the church in a supporting role. The New Testament provides examples of the gift of ministering. In the Book of Acts, we read the following words.
And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch (Acts 6:2-5 ESV).
In this instance we discover that God raise up a number of men to support the apostles. Because these men were serving in supporting roles, the Twelve were able to concentrate on the work of the ministry.
The result of their help was that the Word of God spread.
Scripture says.
And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith (Acts 6:7 ESV).
These gifts of helping and serving support the greater ministry.
There Were Those Who Ministered to the Disciples
The Bible speaks of others who ministered to the disciples. For example, we read of the work of Timothy and Erastus. The Bible calls them “helpers.”
He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed in the province of Asia a little longer (Acts 19:22 NIV).
Interestingly, the Scripture took notice of those who helped in the ministry.
We also read about John Mark assisting the disciples. The Bible says.
When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John also to assist them (Acts 13:5 NRSV).
His assistance was valuable for the continuation of the ministry.
There was a man named Onesimus who ministered to the Apostle Paul. Paul himself testified this when he wrote to Philemon.
I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) (Philemon 10, 11 ESV).
We find examples of a number of people who ministered to those in the church. Their “helping” ministry was certainly noticed.
All Believers Are to Minister
This appears to be another gift that all believers have been given. Indeed, we all are commanded to serve God. Furthermore, those who exercise this gift should never be regarded as having a lesser ministry. The Apostle Paul reminded us how believers need each other.
If all were a single organ, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body which seem to be weaker are indispensable (1 Corinthians 12:19-22 RSV).
Each believer has a ministry or a place in the church, the body of Christ. Every part is essential for the smooth functioning of the ministry.
The Gift of Ministering Works in a Variety of Ways
The New Testament shows that the gift of helps, or serving, operated in a wide variety of ways. On one occasion, it consisted of delivering some scrolls. Paul asked Timothy.
Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments (2 Timothy 4:13 NKJV).
This was a very practical way in which Timothy could help Paul.
The gift also consisted of helping the church with prayer. Paul wrote the following.
He will rescue us because you are helping by praying for us. As a result, many will give thanks to God because so many people’s prayers for our safety have been answered (2 Corinthians 1:11 NLT).
Here we have an important lesson. Praying is actually helping. We should never underestimate how we can be effective by praying for the workers as well as the work of the ministry.
The house of Stephanus, or Stephanas, also helped Paul. Paul acknowledged this in his letter to the Corinthians.
You know that Stephanas and his family were the first in Achaia to have faith in the Lord. They have done all they can for God’s people. My friends, I ask you to obey leaders like them and to do the same for all others who work hard with you (1 Corinthians 16:15, 16CEV).
The gift can be exercised in various ways.
It Is Greatest to Be a Servant
Jesus said that to be the greatest one must be a servant of all. Matthew records the Lord saying the following words.
But Jesus called the disciples together and said: You know that foreign rulers like to order their people around. And their great leaders have full power over everyone they rule. But don’t act like them. If you want to be great, you must be the servant of all the others. (Matthew 20:25, 26 CEV)
This is the greatest ministry that any of us can have; servanthood. It is important that we realize this.
Jesus’ Example of Serving: He Washed the Disciples Feet
Jesus Himself gives us an example of serving. We find this recorded in the Gospel of John. We read the following.
After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because it is true. And since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. How true it is that a servant is not greater than the master. Nor are messengers more important than the one who sends them. You know these things—now do them! That is the path of blessing” (John 13:12-17 NLT).
Although the gift of serving or helps is not noticeable to many, it is absolutely indispensable for the church to function.
Summary – Question 10
What Is the Gift of Ministering, or Service? (Helps)
While each Christian has the responsibility to help others, we also find that there is the gift of ministry, or helps. Thus, “helps” is a spiritual gift. It has the idea of lightening the burden of ministry so that others will be better able to serve Jesus Christ.
Scripture gives examples of a number of people exercising the gift. This includes John Mark, Timothy, Erastus, and Onesimus.
We are also told that the Twelve found a number of men who could do the business of the church while they performed the work of the ministry. Their ministry of servanthood was indispensable in allowing the leadership to proclaim the message of Jesus.
Jesus provides an example for all of us as to what it means to serve others. He did this by washing the disciples’ feet. If the Lord Jesus humbled Himself and washed the feet of His disciples, we, as His servants, should do no less.
The Various Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part Two) – Question 11
Showing mercy is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We read about this gift in Paul’s letter to the Romans. He said.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully (Romans 12:6-8 TNIV).
According to Paul, there is a gift of the spiritual gift of showing mercy.
Showing Mercy Has to Do with Special Giving
The gift of showing mercy has to do with a special giving of one’s time and self. It goes beyond the normal Christian caring and being merciful which each believer is commanded to do. It involves deeds of compassion on behalf of people in difficult situations, perhaps the sick or the down–and–out. The Apostle Paul says that those who exercise this spiritual gift should do it with cheerfulness.
All Believers Should Show Mercy
As mentioned, all believers are encouraged, even commanded, to show mercy to others. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made this memorable statement.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy (Matthew 5:7NRSV).
According to Jesus, those who extend mercy to others will they themselves receive mercy.
The Apostle Paul also expressed the importance of Christian compassion to others, or showing mercy. He wrote the following to the Galatians.
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2 ESV).
We are to bear the burdens of others. Indeed, we are to show them mercy.
A Practical Illustration from James about Showing Mercy
James gave a practical illustration of what it means to show mercy to others. He explained what we should do in the following manner.
If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,” and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? (James 2:15, 16 NRSV).
This illustration is very practical. We should do good things to our fellow believers, we should meet their needs.
In another place, Paul wrote about how Christians should do good to everyone.
So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10 ESV).
While Christians are to good deeds toward everyone we should make it a point to do good things to fellow believers.
The Example of Onesiphorus
The New Testament gives an example of the gift of showing mercy by a man named Onesiphorus. When the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome, Onesiphorus showed him mercy. Paul wrote the following to Timothy.
May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chain; when he arrived in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found (2 Timothy 1:16, 17 NRSV).
Onesiphorus spent time and effort to help one who was having difficulty. Furthermore, as Paul indicated, he continually ministered to him while the apostle was in prison. This seems to indicate that Onesiphorus went far beyond the normal Christian ideal of giving and helping one’s neighbor.
God Is a God of Mercy
There is something else which we should always remember. The God of the Bible is a God who is rich in mercy. King David cried out to the Lord for mercy after he sinned. He asked the Lord to forgive him of his great sin.
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin (Psalm 51:1, 2 NIV).
David was convinced that the Lord could show mercy upon him if He so desired. Indeed, he knew that the Lord is a merciful God.
God has often shown mercy to those who are in need. The psalmist proclaimed the following about God’s merciful character.
Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. Let evil recoil on those who slander me; in your faithfulness destroy them. I will sacrifice a freewill offering to you; I will praise your name, O LORD, for it is good. For he has delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes (Psalm 54:4-7 NIV).
We are to be merciful as our Lord is merciful.
In sum, while each of us who believe in Jesus Christ is to extend mercy to others, there are some Christians who have been given the spiritual gift of showing mercy. This gift allows them to go beyond the normal Christian concern for those who are in need.
Summary – Question 11
What Is the Gift of Showing Mercy?
All Christians should show mercy to one another. In fact, the Lord instructs each believer in Jesus Christ to do so.
The Apostle James spoke of a practical way of showing mercy. He said that if someone comes to us in need we must not merely pray for them. Instead we must also help them materially to the degree that we are able. This is how we extend mercy to the needy.
Merciful acts like these are what Jesus was talking about in the Sermon on the Mount. The Lord said those who show mercy are blessed. He also said that mercy will be extended to them.
While all Christians are to be obedient to the Lord in showing mercy to others, there is a special gift of extending mercy that God grants to certain believers. We can make a number of observations about this gift.
This gift should be exercised with the utmost cheerfulness. In other words, when a person with this gift goes to extraordinary means to show mercy to someone in need the deeds of mercy which are performed are to be done with a cheerful attitude.
We have a biblical example of the gift of showing mercy with a man named Onesiphorus. He helped the Apostle Paul when he needed it most. Indeed, Paul was in a Roman prison when this man went out of his way offer aid to the apostle. This is truly showing mercy to a person in need.
Mercy is one of the attributes of God. As He has shown mercy on us, we too, should show mercy to others. Therefore, by extending mercy to others we are reflecting the character of God.
In sum, each believer in Christ is to show mercy to others but God has gifted some in the church with the special ability to extend mercy in extraordinary circumstances. This gift, which reflects the character of the Creator, is much needed.
The Various Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part Two) – Question 12
The working of miracles is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. When Paul wrote to the Corinthians listed the gifts as follows.
And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:28NRSV).
Three times this gift is mentioned in the first letter to the Corinthians chapter twelve (verses 10, 28, 29). It is listed fourth in order after apostle, prophets, and teachers – although the order does not seem to mean its importance in the overall list of spiritual gifts.
There are a number of key observations which we can make about this gift.
This Is a Supernatural Ability to Perform Miraculous Deeds
To begin with, the Greek word dunamis, translated as “miracle,” has the idea of a “mighty deed.” A miracle is when God intervenes in the normal operation of nature. It is a temporary event that goes against the normally running of the universe. Miracles are supernatural, or beyond the natural. In other words, there is no natural explanation for these miraculous events.
The gift of miracles thus is a supernatural, God-given ability to perform special signs that testify to the God of the Bible. It consists of more than the gifts of healing since healing is listed as a separate spiritual gift.
The Gift Is Spoken of in the Plural
Like the gifts of healing, this spiritual gift is spoken of in the plural. The fact that it is plural in form may suggest that each separate miracle is a special gift as the need arises. It may also mean that God gives people various types of miracle-working ability.
Jesus Said His Disciples Would Do Greater Works than Him
Shortly before His death on the cross, Jesus told His disciples that they would do greater works than Him. John records the following.
Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father (John 14:12NRSV).
Those who believed in Him would do greater things than He did. This was the promise which He gave to the Twelve.
The Works Are Greater in Scope Not in Quality
The greater must mean greater in scope. Indeed, it does not mean greater in quality. Indeed, it would not be possible to do miracles of a greater quality than what Jesus Christ did. Therefore, it is important that we understand the sense in which the works will be greater.
Miracles Were Performed by Those in the Early Church
When the early church was persecuted, they asked the Lord to perform miraculous deeds. The Book of Acts records them praying this prayer.
And now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus (Acts 4:29, 30 NRSV).
They prayed for the ability to continue to do miracles. Their prayers were answered. Consequently, we find that the miracles continued among the believers after Jesus had left the earth and ascended into heaven.
Paul Exercised Miraculous Gifts
The Apostle Paul exercised the gift of miracles against a sorcerer who was attempting to turn away the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, from the Christian faith. He said to this person.
Now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and not see the sun for a time. And immediately a mist and a darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking those who would lead him by the hand (Acts 13:11 NASB).
This is a clear example of the purpose of exercising the gift of miracles. It demonstrated the power of God, through Jesus Christ, over the power of sorcery and was used to convert someone who was seeking the truth.
Another example of the gift of miracles was Peter’s liberation from Herod’s prison (Acts 9:36-42).
The entire escape was miraculous.
Peter seemingly exercised the gift of miracles in the case of Ananias and Sapphira. We read of this in the Book of Acts.
And Peter said, “How could the two of you even think of doing a thing like this— conspiring together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Just outside that door are the young men who buried your husband, and they will carry you out, too.” Instantly, she fell to the floor and died. When the young men came in and saw that she was dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. Great fear gripped the entire church and all others who heard what had happened (Acts 5:9-11 NLT).
Peter was able to issue a command which caused their death. This was indeed a miracle.
Unusual Miracles Were Done by Paul
The Bible also records the Apostle Paul performing some unique miracles. We read of this in the Book of Acts.
This continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord. God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them. (Acts 19:10-12 NRSV).
A miracle of this sort, according to the Bible, was not the norm. The Bible stresses this fact by calling it something unusual or extraordinary.
Miracles Did Not Always Cause Belief
While miracles were signs that pointed to the truth of the gospel message, they did not always cause people to believe in Jesus Christ. Indeed, we find that Jesus illustrated that miracles, in and of themselves, were not enough in His story about the rich man and Lazarus.
Luke records the story Jesus told of the rich man and Lazarus. Each of them died. Lazarus went to be with the righteous dead while the rich man was in torment with the unrighteous dead. In other words, he was banished from the presence of God. While in torment, the rich man pleaded with Abraham to send Lazarus back and warn his five brothers about escaping the horrible place in which he found himself. The reply was highly instructive.
“Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses’ Teachings and the Prophets. Your brothers should listen to them!’ The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! If someone comes back to them from the dead, they will turn to God and change the way they think and act.’ “Abraham answered him, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses’ Teachings and the Prophets, they won’t be persuaded even if someone comes back to life” (Luke 16:29-31 God’s Word).
Abraham told the rich man that the Scriptures were sufficient to cause belief in the God of the Bible. When the rich man objected and said they would believe if someone returned from the dead Abraham disagreed. Even someone coming back from the dead would not change the mind of those who rejected God’s Word. This story by Jesus illustrates the fact that miracles, by themselves, are not sufficient to cause someone to believe.
An Illustration of the Insufficiency of Miracles: Paul and the Slave Girl
There were actual events recorded in the Book of Acts that illustrated the insufficiency of miracles. After Paul cast a demon out of a slave girl, the Bible says that the following things happened.
“The whole city is in an uproar because of these Jews!” they shouted. “They are teaching the people to do things that are against Roman customs.” A mob quickly formed against Paul and Silas, and the city officials ordered them stripped and beaten with wooden rods. They were severely beaten, and then they were thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn’t escape. So he took no chances but put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks (Acts 16:20-24 NLT).
Instead of causing a number of conversions, this miracle caused Paul and Silas to be beaten and thrown into jail! In this particular instance, the miracle did not cause a revival.
Miracles Were Not Recorded Everywhere the Apostles Went
There is something else which we must appreciate. While the Book of Acts records the apostles doing miraculous deeds, these miracles seemingly did not occur everywhere that they went. In fact, there are no recorded miracles in the churches of Antioch of Pisidia, Derbe, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth.
While this does not necessarily mean that no miracles were performed in these places, the absence of their recording may demonstrated that the sign of miracles only found limited use.
Has the Gift of Miracles Ceased?
There are many Christians who believe that the gift of miracles is no longer operating in the church. They argue as follows.
The Miracles Were for Confirmation
The gift of miracles was given to confirm the truth of the gospel before the New Testament was written. Once the Scripture was completed, the gift of miracles was no longer necessary.
In addition, miracles seem to be linked to the gift of apostle. Paul mentioned that the apostles were characterized by certain signs. He said.
Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds (2 Corinthians 12:12 NKJV).
Since there are no more apostles, there are no more miracle workers.
Option 1: Miracles Still Exist but Not Miracle Workers
However, merely because the spiritual gift of miracle worker is no longer given to the church does not mean that God has stopped doing miracles. Indeed, there is a big difference between the miracles that God has performed in history and the gift of miracles. God has worked miracles in the past and continues to do so today when He so desires. Yet, it is argued, that the gift of miracles was only temporary. There is no more need to confirm the Word of God as was necessary in the beginning.
Option 2: The Gift of Miracles Still Exists
There are those who believe the gift of miracles is still meant to exist in the church. For one thing, miracles were not limited to apostles. For example, the New Testament says that the martyr Stephen performed miracles.
And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people (Acts 6:8 ESV).
While Stephen was not an apostle he had the ability to perform miracles.
In addition, it is also contended that the signs of an apostle were not the miracles that he performed. Instead, they consisted of the unique spiritual abilities that God gave them.
Consequently, it is argued that God is still giving the gift of miracles to individuals whom He chooses. While they may not be as frequent as they were in the early years of the church, it is argued that they still can and do occur.
There are Bible-believers on each side of this issue with respect to the continuation of the gift of miracles.
Summary – Question 12
What Is the Gift of Miracles?
The gift of miracles is a genuine spiritual gift that the Lord gave to the church. It is the supernatural ability to perform special signs that testify to the truth of the message of Jesus Christ. There are a number of important observations that need to be made about this spiritual gift.
First, the miracle-worker was able to do things which were plainly supernatural. Indeed, there is no natural explanation for the deeds which they did.
Like the gifts of healing, this spiritual gift is spoken of in the plural. This may refer to various types of miracle working gifts.
The many miracles that Jesus’ disciples performed after His ascension into heaven fulfills a prediction which He made. Indeed, the Lord promised that they would do greater miracles that He did. With a number of disciples performing miracles this came to pass.
While miracles were performed by some believers in the early church this was not true of every believer. Neither do we find miracles recorded in every place in which the disciples ministered.
The Apostle Paul was one who had this gift. Furthermore, there were some unusual miraculous gifts which were attributed to him.
It is debated among Christians as to whether this gift still exists in the church. Some limit the gift of miracles to the apostles. When they died out the ability to perform miracles died with them.
Those who argue against this viewpoint point out that some people who were non-apostles, such as Stephen, also worked miracles. Therefore they were not limited to the apostles.
If someone claims to have the gift of miracles then they should be able to duplicate similar miracles to what we find in the New Testament. Yet, we do certainly not see this happening today on any large scale.
The dictionary definition of the verb (action) encourage is to “give support, confidence, or hope to someone” as well as to “help or stimulate and activity, state, or view to develop”. It’s origins are French—from “in” and “courage”. “Coeur” in French means “heart.” So, quite literally, the word encourage is to support the heart of someone else. The Biblical word often used instead of encourage is “exhort,” and that definition adds even more emphasis: Exhort is defined as to “strongly encourage or urge someone to do something”—have the sense of pushing forward. Its origins are Latin from “thoroughly” and “encourage”. So, those with the gift of exhortation are those who strongly or thoroughly encourage the heart of others, specifically with forward movement (maturity) in mind.
The New Testament disciple Barnabas comes immediately to mind when thinking of this particular gift. The very first time we meet him, we learn that his given name is Joseph, but that his fellow believers called him Barnabas which translates to “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36). We also get a glimpse at his generosity—as he sold a piece of land and gave the money to the apostle’s ministry (Acts 4:37). Barnabas likely had many gifts, but his spiritual gift of exhortation appears to be his dominant one—especially for him to get his nickname.
Perhaps because God had given him the gift of bringing courage to others, he was himself courageous. When church-persecutor Saul has his conversion-encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road, the disciples in Jerusalem are rightly afraid of him—fearing that Saul was faking it in order to infiltrate the young church and destroy it. In this moment, it is Barnabas who vouches for Saul (otherwise known as Paul) and gives the church leaders confidence to welcome him: “But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord” (Acts 9:27-28).
We remember Paul’s missionary journeys and his ministry. However, a close reading of Acts shows that Barnabas had significant, perhaps equal influence and impact. When the Jerusalem church selects and sends Barnabas to Antioch, we read that “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord” (Acts 11:24). Then, Barnabas goes to Tarsus and brings Saul to Antioch and “for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch” (Acts 11:26).
We see Barnabas as trustworthy, a leader who is set apart and sent out, a companion of Paul, a cousin of John Mark, a prophet and a teacher (Acts 11, 12, 13, Colossians 4). In Acts 11-14, there are many references to “they” and “we”—referring to both Barnabas and Paul. They taught, they spoke, they answered, they traveled, they were persecuted, they were expelled, they were effective, they were bold, they performed signs and wonders, they preached the gospel, they appointed elders for the churches. As an example, “They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. Paul and Barnabas appointed elders[ordained elders or had elders elected] for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust” (Acts 14:21-23).
A primary purpose of Barnabas’ ministry was to strengthen the disciples and exhort them to remain faithful, to endure, to persist. He knows what it is like to have to do these things—he is speaking from personal experience. We are told by Barnabas’ traveling ministry companion, Paul, that the encouragement of others can help us experience boundless joy even in the midst of challenging circumstances. When we are heartened by others, it’s as if our “spirit has been refreshed” (2 Corinthians 7:13).
Building up, strengthening, heartening, reassuring, fortifying others. Exhorting toward faith, hope, love, unity, joy, patience, self-control, being connected to Jesus daily. These are the essence of the spiritual gift of exhortation.
Stir up love means "to arouse to love." We have an obligation to do this because of both love and faith. We see it in two different contexts: In Hebrews 3:12-14, the subject is faith or belief. In Hebrews 10:23-25, the subject is love. In both cases, exhortation within our fellowship can increase either one or both of them.
The writer says that we have to confess our hope. Confess means "to make it known, to reveal." We must make our hope known. Undoubtedly, he means the great hope of the resurrection of the dead, but it is probably not limited only to that hope but includes other hopes that we have.
It is the accomplishment of these hopes that we are to exhort our brethren about: "Hang in there!" "Hold fast!" "Have you tried praying about that?" "Have you sought the advice or counsel of this person?" "Do you think it would help for you to do this or that thing?" "I had a problem like that one time." By doing this, we begin to pool our resources and experiences, and there is wisdom, God says, in a multitude of counselors. It cannot help but build people up, and our fellowship becomes stronger as we share one another's hopes and dreams.
Exhorting one another - Exhort means "to aid, help, comfort, encourage, and beseech." In the Babylon of this world—with all its pulls and distractions to neglect our calling—every one of us needs exhortation to strive harder to stand.
We live in what can best be described as a Laodicean environment, just as did the Hebrews to whom Paul wrote. Many today challenge the foundation laid by God through His leaders, and sadly, many call into question even the commandments of God. In such an atmosphere of doubt and distru
The centurion gives the messengers the responsibility to go to Jesus, not to sorcerers or pagan gods—He is the One the centurion seeks for help. The messengers are to seek Him earnestly and formally on his behalf. The centurion's approach to Christ is not casual but committed and respectful. He desires a blessing, and to secure it, he knows he has to demonstrate earnest commitment. To convey the centurion's faithful attitude, the messengers have to present the centurion's request carefully and accurately to Jesus to heal his servant. The centurion does not ask in a general or indirect way that would be unclear; the messengers are to be detailed and clear. They present the centurion's request enthusiastically and promptly, as the Greek text indicates. They were committed and faithful in carrying out their responsibility. They set an excellent example for members of God's church today. When we are asked to pray for people who are suffering from illness or injury, are we as diligent and earnest as these messengers were? When we ask others to pray for us, are we as faithful as the centurion was? The messengers, in appealing to Christ to come and heal the servant, highly praise the centurion (Luke 7:4-5). The centurion's attitude shows that he was a man who loved those under his authority. In addition, he loved the Jews, which was quite unusual since the Romans did not normally even like the Jews. His love for the Jews was more than just talk; it was combined with action. He gave generously of his resources to build a synagogue for them in Capernaum. Likewise, God expects love to flow from His church in generous and caring actions. He sets the example for us in that God demonstrates His love by giving. He gave us the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ, our Savior (John 3:16). Never has there been a greater love.
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