Introduction: Do you know your spiritual gift(s)?

When Jesus died and arose, He then ascended into heaven for the purpose of sending His Spirit to empower every believer. This passage reveals this truth. Why not stop and thank God for not only His gift of salvation, but also for His gifts for service!

1. When gifts are given – Resurrection Power with Gifts! (Eph 4:8) – “Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.”

Although we have some talents that have been developed thru the years, a spiritual gift is different than a human talent. It is an ability whose power source comes from the Holy Spirit. Other gifts are mentioned in Romans chapter twelve. Do you know your gifts? 

2. What gifts were given! (Eph 4:11) – “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.”

Here is what this Pastor refers to as “Ministry Driven Gifts”! The “Motivational Gifts” are listed elsewhere. Did you acknowledge that our Great and Mighty God set it up this way? Why? Because He deserves the glory!

3. Why gifts were given! (Eph 4:12) – “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”

The word “perfecting” is καταρτισμός, (kat-ar-tis-mos’). By definition, it means a preparing, or an equipping. It can mean a bringing to a condition of fitness. Praise the Lord! He is bringing us into a condition of usefulness. In other words, He is making us more useable to serve Him. 

Conclusion: Are you exercising the gift that was given unto you? Just like a muscle, if it is neglected, then it becomes useless. If we don’t use it, we lose it! So use it!!