“Understanding Things Of The Spirit”

1 Corinthians 12:1-13

Most of the Corinthian believers had been idol worshipers and

were led by demon spirits. (12:2; 10:20).

It was very important that they not continue

to be ignorant of the things pertaining to the Holy Spirit.

1. The basis for the Holy Spirit’s working in a believer’s life.

12:2 “no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no

one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit”.

This is the basis upon which the Holy Spirit baptizes us into the body

of Christ. (12:13; Romans 10:9).

To the degree that Jesus is Lord of our life, to that degree we are led

by and filled with the Holy Spirit! (Paul knew this from personal

experience, Acts 9:1-6; 26:9-16).

2. Abilities are given to believers by the Holy Spirit at the time we are

baptized by the Spirit into the body of Christ.

12:7 “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the

profit of all”.

12:11 “But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing

to each one individually as He wills”.

These abilities are called “gifts” (charismata).

3. There are different categories of gifts.

12:5 “There are differences of ministries, services (diakonia).

Some gifts involve speaking (“teaching”, etc.).

Other gifts involve serving, doing. (“helps”, etc., Romans 12:6-8).

4. There are different works.

12:6 “There are diversities of activities.”:

( Bible translation, Bible distribution; Literature; Media; Children,

Youth and Campus ministries; etc.)

If we are open to the Holy Spirit’s leading, this generation can be

reached!

Ephesians 4:11-12 “For the equipping of the saints for ministry”

2 Timothy 3:16-17 “that the man of God may be complete (fresh)”