Romans 12:6-8: "Spiritual Gifts"

Paul continues the discussion on the diversity of the gifts for the benefit of the unity of the body of Christ. Paul has just told us that we have been "allotted to each a measure of faith", and that each "do not have the same function". He reiterates this and continues in more detail. "And since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let each exercise them accordingly". Paul is reminding us that since we have each been given a different gift and God has chosen each gift for us accordingly, we are called to use them so that the body of Christ may work properly. We all receive the same grace as we are unified in the body, however, we must exercise our gifts so that we can function properly. Paul then details out the various gifts that have been given to us by the grace of God.

First, Paul lists "prophecy, according to the portion of his faith". MacArthur writes, "While it certainly had a revelatory aspect during Old Testament and apostolic times, it was not limited to revelation. It was exercised when there was public proclamation of divine truth, old or new. In I Cor. 12:10 it is linked with sign gifts, supernatural and revelatory. Here it is linked with speaking and serving gifts, leading to the conclusion that it had both revelatory and non-revelatory aspects". In it's present day context it is the "active enablement to proclaim God's Word already written in Scripture". Therefore, those who have been given the gift of prophecy, or to speak forth God's Word, must do so for the body to function the way God has designed it.

Second, Paul calls out "if service, in his serving". If service is the gift we have been given to God, we are called to do it excellently for the glory of God. This does not connote that those who do not have the gift should not serve, however, it does explain that some are going to be better at it, and more gifted in serving than others. As believers, we are all to desire to serve in some faculty in our local churches, families, and around our friends. However, for some it will be their lifes devotion and work as God has called them to it.

Thirdly, Paul says, "or he who teaches, in his teaching". MacArthur writes, "The Christian who teaches is divinely gifted with special ability to interpret and present God's truth understandably. The primary difference between teaching and prophesying is not in content but in the distinction between the ability to proclaim and the ability to give systematic and regular instruction to God's word". We all recognize and appreciate those who have been given the gift to clearly explain God's word. It is a breath of fresh air when someone can explain and completely make sense of a scripture that has been so vague or unclear to us. Those who have been set apart for teaching must make every effort to not only study the word, but make themselves available to instruct.

Another gift Paul brings up is "or he who exhorts, in his exhortation". Those who have been given the gift of exhortation are commissioned to come alongside those who need encouragement or correction. One who has this gift will be one who is constantly keeping others accountable. MacAthur writes, "Just as prophecy proclaims the truth and teaching systematizes and explains the truth, exhortation calls believers to obey and follow the truth, to live as Christians are supposed to live - consistent with God's revealed will".

The fifth gift that Paul mentions is giving, "he who gives, with liberality". As mentioned before, it is not that only those with this gift will be generous, however, those with the gift of giving will constantly live their lives focusing on how to give of all that they receive. These are a special group that selflessly give everything they can. Not only do these people give of their time and money, but they will avail themselves and sacrificially give of themselves for the sake of ministry. MacArthur, explaining giving with liberality writes, "it carries the idea of sincere, heartfelt giving that is untainted by affectation or ulterior motive. The Christian who gives with liberality gives of himself, not for himself". These men and women do not look to others for their praise, but to God as their act of worship.

The sixth gift that Paul mentions is leadership. "He who leads, with diligence". It is usually apparent those who are leaders. It is usually something you are or you are not, rarely does someone who does not want to be a leader, work at becoming a leader. God has given these a unique gift to bring others together and influence them for the good. Leaders are called to be an example of Godliness before those they would influence. MacArthur writes, "effective leadership must be done with diligence, with earnestness and zeal. Diligence can also carry the idea of haste . . . proper leadership therefore precludes procrastination and idleness". These people are often in the office of elders, deacons, and deaconesses. God has called them to use their gift to be an example to those who may not be as mature or strong in the faith.

The last gift Paul mentions is showing mercy, "he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness". It is true that some people have a harder time forgiving than others. God has gifted some to abound with forgiveness and mercy. However, as Christians we should all be full of mercy to others as we recall the mercy and grace that has been shown to us. MacArthur explains, "The gifted Christian who shows mercy is divinely endowed with special sensitivity to suffering and sorrow, with the ability to notice misery and distress that may go unnoticed by others, and with the desire and means to help alleviate such affliction". Those gifted with mercy, will often be more aware and in tune with what others are going through.

May we strive to learn and perfect the gift that God has given to us and learn how it best fits in to the body of Christ and the furtherment of God's glory. May we never be envious of other gifts that may be more noticeable, but strive to enjoy our gifts and learn to get joy from serving God with it.