Bible Study

Title: Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
Date: Sep 20, 2005
Topic(s): Salvation
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:1, 1 John 5:13, 1 Corinthians 14:12, John 13:35, Romans 10:9

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Shortly after they were created, Eve accused Adam of being unfaithful. "Good grief," Adam replied, "you're the only woman that exists." That night Adam was awakened to find Eve poking him in the ribs. "What are you doing," he asked.

"I'm just counting your ribs," she replied.

It's human nature to want assurance. Some people look to spiritual gifts as the assurance of their salvation. But is this what these gifts are for?

What Does God Say?

"But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal" (1 Corinthians 12:31-13:1, NKJV).

"Since you are so eager to have spiritual gifts, ask God for those that will be of real help to the whole church" (1 Corinthians 14:12, NLT).

• What should our attitude toward spiritual gifts be?
• What kind of gifts should we ask for?
• What is the "more excellent way" that Paul speaks about?

My Thoughts

The true assurance of your salvation is not found in spiritual gifts but in love. Jesus said, "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35, NKJV). Using love as the standard rather than gifts, how would you evaluate your spiritual life?

My Part

Have you come to that place in your spiritual life where you know you're going to heaven (1 John 5:13)? If not, why not settle it right now? The apostle Paul tells us, "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9, NKJV). If God says it, you can believe it.

You can pray something like this: "Heavenly Father, I know I have done many wrong things. I ask Jesus to be my Savior and forgive me for all I have done wrong. Help me to love others so I can show people my life has truly changed. Amen"

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