THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15
1 Corinthians 12:4-6
Ephesians 4:7-10

“… diversities of gifts … of
administrations … of operations …”

THE NATURE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS (II)

Second, there are diversities of gifts (1 Cor 12:4). The term “diversities” (diaireseis) carries the idea of “distributions” or “allotments.” Here, Paul was referring to the variety of gifts which God distributes among the believers. Different believers will have different gifts. Some will have the gift of teaching, others the gift of music, still others the gift of administration. Since God is the one who decides the distribution of gifts (Eph 4:7-10), there must be no comparison or jealousy regarding this matter.

For examples of spiritual gifts, one may refer to 1 Corinthians 12:7-11. Other examples are found in 1 Corinthians 12:28-31; Romans 12:6-8 and Ephesians 4:11.

Third, there are differences in administrations (1 Cor 12:5). The term “administrations” (diakoniōn) can also be rendered as “ministries.” While some may have the same spiritual gifts, they may manifest their gifts in different ways and be found in different ministries. For example, one may be a teacher who is most suitable for teaching children. Another may be a teacher who is gifted in instructing the adults. Let each teacher abide in his calling. Let there be no comparison or jealousy.

Fourth, there are differences in operations (1 Cor 12:6). The term “operations” (energēmatōn) refers to the effectiveness of one’s ministry which has been committed to the Lord. No Christian can serve the Lord in his own might. He must depend on the Lord to energise him for the work. And after the work is completed, the results are entirely in the Lord’s hands. It is the temptation of many a man to look at another’s work and compare the results with his own. Some may despair at their apparent lack of fruit. Others may gloat that they are more effective. May it not be so among us! Never forget that it is the Lord who gives the increase (1 Cor 3:7).

THOUGHT: Let every man abide in his calling.
PRAYER: Father, help me to know my place in Thy service.