If gifts are given to us by the Spirit and not by a pastor, elder, or another human, why are there references to Timothy receiving gifts when hands were laid on him (1 Tim. 4:14, 2 Tim. 1:6)?

There is a Greek word in those verses, “meta,” that means “with.” The laying of hands accompanied the giving of the gift and was the instrument or means of him receiving the gift. The source of Timothy’s gifts was still the Holy Spirit. Since the New Testament was still being written at the time of Timothy’s “authentification” or “recognition,” it was a means of further clarification for both Timothy and the churches he served. Informally, we carry on the practice today by simply affirming “one another” in the Body of Christ when we recognize and compliment God’s specific work through the life of someone else. Formally, when we lay hands on new elders, ministers or missionaries, we in essence are united as a body in recognizing a particular spiritual gift of service in that individual and are formally setting that person aside for a unique use of their gift. Bottom line: NO ONE LAYS HANDS ON THEMSELVES! It is the community of believers’ job corporately and individually to ultimately recognize and distinguish each others’ gifting. With that in mind as you study the next two gifts, list some people within our church who you believe exhibit these gifts.

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Spiritual Gift: Faith

Definition: The gift of Faith is the God-given ability to act on God’s promises with confidence and unwavering belief in God’s ability to fulfill His purposes.

Scriptural Reference(s): 1 Cor. 12:9, 1 Cor. 13:2, Rom. 4:19-21

Distinctives of this gift:

• Act in complete confidence of God’s ability to overcome obstacles.
• Advance the cause of Christ because they go forward when others will not.
• Ask God for what is needed and trust Him for His provision.

Traits of this person: Prayerful, Optimistic, Trusting, Assured, Inspiring, Hopeful, Positive

Potential Ministry Involvement: Prayer Mnistry, Hospital Visitation, Committee/Board member

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Spiritual Gift: Giving

Definition: The gift of Giving is the God-given ability to contribute money and resources to the work of the Lord with cheerfulness and liberality.

Scriptural Reference(s): Rom. 12:8, 2 Cor. 6:8, Luke 21:1-4

Distinctives of this gift: 

• Manage their finances and limit their lifestyle in order to give as much of their resources as possible.
• Meet tangible needs that enable spiritual growth to occur.
• Support the work of ministry with sacrificial gifts to advance the Kingdom.

Traits of this person: Responsible, Stewardship-oriented, Resourceful, Charitable, Disciplined

Potential Ministry Involvement: Support Missionaries, Fund Raising, Stewardship Board