THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

THE HOLY SPIRIT IS…

The third person in the trinity

The power of Christ that the suffering servant of Yahweh was empowered by the spirit of God to be able to endure all the sufferings and challenges he faced during his mission.

He also helped Christ to carry out his ministry successfully and withstand temptation by the devil while he was in the wilderness.

The Old Testament prophets and the disciples of Jesus Christ were guided and empowered by the spirit of God. The holy spirit was instrumental in the salvation of God`s chosen people right from old testament times and the new testament times to date.

Holy Spirit also helped the prophets in the Old Testament to perform miracles, deliver Gods messages and withstand hostility.

The spirit of God used during creation….…“and the spirit of God was moving over the face of waters“.(genesis 1;2),Let us make…Genesis 1;26

The one who gives gifts like healing and prophecy

The Holy Ghost and also the spirit of God

TEACHINGS OF JESUS CHRIST ON THE ROLE OF HOLY SPIRIT

Jesus Christ received the of God at His baptism which led him to the wilderness, strengthened him to overcome temptations and guided him throughout his public ministry.

JESUS TEACHINGS ON THE ROLE OF HOLYSPIRIT      john14:15-26                                                                                    john16:5-15, Acts1:7-8

The Holy Spirit is divine

The Holy Spirit would be sent by God after his ascension

Jesus teachings on the role holy spirit

The Holy Spirit reveals the truth about God

The Holy Spirit acts as counselor

The Holy Spirit is comforter to believers

The Holy Spirit is an advocate to believers

The Holy Spirit guides believers

Holy Spirit enables disciples to witness for Jesus Christ

Holy Spirit enables believers to worship in spirit and truth

The Holy Spirit acts as teacher who teaches the believers

The Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus Christ and God

Holy Spirit gives believers courage

Holy Spirit judges believers

The Holy Spirit will continue with Jesus work of forgiving sins

The Holy Spirit is a companion

Question; in groups of five discuss Jesus teachings on the role of Holy Spirit

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE EARLY CHURCH

Revealed God`s message

Exposed people secrets

Inspired people to pray and speak in tongues

Gave people power to perform miracles

Provided guidance in choosing disciples/leaders

Empowered people to persevere persecution

Strengthened people to preach

Enabled Christians to live in unity and strengthened believer’s faith.

BACKGROUND OF PETER

• He was one the twelve disciples
• He was the first disciple to be called
• He accompanied Jesus wherever he went
• He acted as spokesperson for the disciples
• He was originally called Simon
• Jesus called him caephas meaning ‘the rock, the stone`
• He denied Jesus three times
• He repentented after denying Jesus
• He was instrumental in the appointment of of Matthias the successor of Judas Iscariot
•  

PETERS MESSAGE ON THE DAY OF THE PENTECOST: Acts2;1-13

• Pentecost is Greek name for the Israelites festival of wheat harvest which was celebrated 50days after the Passover.  Also known as feast of weeks.
• It commemorated the day God gave the commandments to Israelites through Moses. In the New Testament it is held to celebrate and remember the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the apostles and followers of Jesus Christ. Before ascending to heaven Jesus Christ told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would empower them to go to the world and be Jesus witnesses.
• On that day the disciples were gathered in a room when suddenly a voice came from the sky which sounded like a strong wind flowing and filled the room
• The disciples looked and saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread and touched every one
• They were all filled with Holy Spirit and talked in other languages.
• Some people thought the disciples were drank but peter defended them by saying they were not drank……acts2;6
• On that day,many believers were baptized increasing the group by about 3000 people.
• Describe events of the day the Pentecost
• Outline peters message on the day of pentecost

FACTS ABOUT PETERS MESSAGE ON THE DAY OF PENTECOST:   Acts2;14-40

1. Peter said the disciples were filled with the holy spirit
2. He said they  are not drunk
3. He said Jesus was the son of God
4. Gods power was seen by the miracles, signs and wonders performed by Jesus Christ
5. Jesus had been killed by the Jews because of their wickedness
6. God raised Jesus Christ back to life
7. Jesus Christ was a descendant of David

Facts about peters message on the day of Pentecost.;acts2;14-40

• Jesus ascended to heaven and He is at the right hand side of God
• Jesus is God  Christ the messiah
• Peter called upon people to repent their sins so as to be forgiven

The people were to be baptized by Jesus name. 

Signs of the holy spirit on the day of the Pentecost

• Presence of tongues of fire

Disciple’s speaking in tongues

• Strong/powerful wind
• Noise from the sky
• Baptism of many people[conversion of many people to Christianity- about 3000 people

CONTRIBUTION OF APOSTLE PETER TO THE SPREAD OF THE GOSPEL IN THE EARLY CHURCH

• Preached on the day of the Pentecost converting 3000 people to Christianity
• Carried out healing miracles that attracted many people
• Condemned evil practices in the early church
• Clarified the Gentile commission to the early church
• He baptized the first gentile to the early church[Cornelius]
• He appointed deacons to care for the widows

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES SHOWN BY PETER ON THE DAY OF PENTECOST

• Courage
• Wisdom
• Commitment
• Principled
• Knowledgeable
• God fearing
• Creative
• Ability to defend his colleagues
• Care for the needy
• Prayerful                                                                                                                                                                    

 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE OUTPOURING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TO CHRISTIANS TODAY

• Christians learn that they need to devote to the teachings of Jesus Christ just like the apostle who met daily for fellowship and prayer
• Christian’s learn that holy spirit unify believers the same way it unified disciples from different backgrounds and nations
• Christians learn that it is important to be obedient like who obeyed the instructions of Jesus Christ
• We also learn that baptism of the Holy Spirit is important for every Christian.
• They learn the holy spirit help in spreading the word of God the same way he  helped the disciples to bring more people Christ
• Holy Spirit helps Christians to be bold and courageous in preaching the gospel. The apostles were bold enough to face persecutions as they were spreading the gospel of Christ.

PAUL`S TEACHINGS ON THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT first Corinthian’s 12,13 and 14

Spiritual gifts are extraordinary favors’ given human beings by God

They are special talents to be used for the service of others and not for one`s personal benefit or gratification

THE NINE GIFTS OF  HOLY SPIRIT

• WISDOM
• KNOWLEDGE
• FAITH
• HEALING
• SPEAKING IN TONGUES

THE NINE GIFTS OF THEHOLY SPIRIT

• PERFORMING MIRACLES
• PROPHECY
• DISTINGUISHING OF SPIRITS/DISCERNING
• INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES

IMPORTANCE OF THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

• The gift of wisdom

Ability to make sensible decisions and give good advice according to Gods will.

This makes one to expound and make deep understanding. it enables Christians to make right decisions on matters concerning the church.

Helps Christians realize who God is and his purpose for human beings. it also assist them to interpret spiritual truth and make appropriate judgment’s

• Gift of knowledge

Ability to have an in-depth understanding of a situation or spiritual issue. Gives Christians revelations and understanding of the kingdom of God without being taught about them.

It enables Christians to understand basic facts about Jesus and his mission

It enables the apostles to spread the word of God. Some Christians have the gift of understanding of the scriptures can distinguish what is biblical and what is not.

• The gift of faith

Refer to confidence in God’s help which inspires us to undertake difficult tasks .it  is also      

being able trust in God and encouraging others to do so. It is the strong conviction that

help Christians perform miracles. Prophet Elijah used the gift holy spirit during the   Mount Carmel.    

• Gift of healing ;acts3;1-10

          Refers to powers to heal all forms of sickness miraculously by invoking the name of God

• The gift of performing miracles

This is using Gods powers to perform signs and wonders that give authencity to Gods word. This power demonstrates the saving power of Christ. They are the product of the spoken word of God……………..psalms 33:6

• The gift of prophecy

To proclaim a message on what will happen in future. The gift edifies, exhorts and comforts believers. It is divinely inspired and anointed utterance. It is also the ability to to interpret God`s word and relate it to His people.  It enable Christians fore tell future as revealed to them.

• The gift of distinguishing /discerning spirits  

Ability to determine whether or not a message or a person or an event is truly from God. Ability to identify the source of spiritual gifts, whether it is from Holy Spirit or evil spirits. Peter was blessed with the gift of discernment and it enabled him to know that Ananias and Sapphira lied to Holy Spirit.

•  The gift of speaking in tongues. /glossolalia

Ability of some people to utter static and unintelligible speech. It is also to convey a message or utter words of a language that is unknown to the person uttering the words. The Holy Spirit energizes the tongue guide to guide believers through language and music.

• The gift of interpreting tongues

Ability to understand and interpret messages of those speaking in tongues. It is translating what is being spoken by those with the gift of speaking in tongues to others in a language they can understand.

TEACHINGS OF ST PAUL CONCERNING THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS

• Gifts should be used for the service of others and not for one’s personal gains and gratification.
• Gifts should be used for building of the church.
• There is only one Holy Spirit that manifests its presence by conferring a variety of spiritual gifts to the believer.
• Just as the human body has many parts playing different roles so does the holy spirit.
• Gifts are meant for the unity of the church.
• Love is the greatest of all gifts and should be demonstrated by loving others.
• Gifts are works of power which comes from God.
• All gifts are the same and none is more important than others.
• Gifts should be used rightly for the mission of God and for the good of the Church.

Ways in which the gift of love is supreme over other gifts according to st Paul

• The gift of tongues becomes nothing but meaningless noise when unaccompanied by love.
• The gift of prophecy or knowledge is not of any value without love.
• Neither faith is so strong as to move mountains nor generosity so great to give ones possession nor does martyrdom mean nothing without love.
• Love contains virtues.

QUALITIES OF LOVE ACCORDING TO ST PAUL[first corrinthians:13

• Love is patient and kind
• Love is not arrogant or rude
• Love is not jealous or boastful
• Love does not insist on its on way
• Love is not disrespectful in its dealing’s
• Love is not deceitful or irritable
• Love bears all things
• Love is eternal
• Love believes, hopes and endures all things
• Love does not rejoice in wrong but rejoices in the truth.

REGULATIONS FOR THE USE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS ACCORDING TO ST PAUL.

• Must be exercised in an orderly manner in order to contribute the community
• In any one meeting, not more than two or at most three people may speak in tongues.
• Those who speak in tongues should not speak at the same time but one after the other.
• The one who has the gift of interpretation should explain the message to the congregation.
• If there is no interpreter available the person with the gift of tongues should refrain from speaking in tongues or do it private.
• Only three prophets should speak at the assembly using the gift of prophecy. The other members should listen and assess what the other prophets are saying.

CRETARIA FOR DISCERNING THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT mathew7:15-26

First corrinthians12:1-3  Galatians 5:16-20

The following are the methods used to distinguish true spirits from false spirits

1. R Loyalty to jesus/conformity to the faith.

No one can say ‘Jesus is lord ‘except by the holy spirit

One who manifests aspitual gift must also acknowledge Jesus Christ truly from his heart.                                                               

• the test of love

Divine love is the crown of character.  To discover whether or not a spiritual gift has the Holy Spirit as its author, Jesus Christ says the exercise of the holy spiritual gifts must lead to the harvest of fruits of the Holy Spirit.

• The doctrinal test

The holy spirit, by whose inspiration the scriptures were written cannot contradict that which  it wrote. Prophecy or message in tongues should always be in agreement with the scripture’s

• One who is under the influence of the holy spirit should be able to recognize jesus as lord and saviors
• One who is under the influence of holy spirit is known by its acts{he/she will act and behave according to the teachings of the Bible.

Discuss ways in which you can show love in the society according to Paul teachings.

WAYS IN WHICH THE GIFTS OF THE HOLYSPIRIT ARE BEING MANIFESTED IN THE CHURCH TODAY

• Some Christians have the gift of knowledge and wisdom.it enables them to understand and interpret Gods message. They are also able guide other Christians in making right decision while handling difficult issues.
• Some Christians have the gift of healing. This guides them to heal the sick through prayer and faith in God.
• The gift of speaking in tongues. Today in most churches it is believed that those who speak in tongues are believed to have received baptism of holy spirit of fire
• The gift of discerning of spirit.it helps Christians to distinguish between manifestation of Holy Spirit and that of evil spirit. The gift also helps leaders to choose ministry teams or suggest people to recruit for ministry roles.
• The gift of prophecy. Used to proclaim messages from God. Also in condemning evils such as corruption, bribery and ethnicity.it is also used to tell people of Gods future plans for them. It has greatly helped in evangelization.
• Gift of faith. This gives them confidence to believe in Gods promises, power and judgments
• Love as a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is depicted when Christians show concern for others. This is through visiting the sick, helping the poor and needy and assisting the orphaned.
• The Holy Spirit enables Christians of different denominations to work together in unity for development of church.
• strengthens them with other gifts of the holy spirit.
• It gives Christians courage to speak the truth even when in difficulties.

THE FRUITS OF THE HOLYSPIRIT Galaltian’s 5:16-26

Christians are known by the fruits of the Holy Spirit which includes,

• Love
• Joy
• Peace
• Kindness
• Patience
• Goodness
• Faithfulness
• Self control
• Humility

The challenge for Christians is to choose between having faith in Christ who became human being and gave himself for the life of the world or chose the values which are the desires of the flesh which include;

• Immorality
• Idolatry
• Sorcery
• Jealousy
• Anger
• Disagreements
• Drunkedness

Those who belong  to Christ have crucified their weak human nature with all its passions and desires.

WAYS IN WHICH THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT HAVE BEEN ABUSED IN CHRISTIAN CHURCH TODAY

1. Cheating that one has a certain gift of the holy spirit.
2. Commercialization of the gifts of the holy spirit. People are asked to pay money before they are prayed for or healed.
3. Unscrupulous Christians may impart demonic powers on the innocent faithful.
4. False interpretation of the Bible/prophecy.
5. Some Christians who possess the gifts of the Holy Spirit develop pride/superiority complex.
6. Distinguishing one’s self as a person with special call with an intention of exploiting others.
7. Wrong use of the gifts of the holy spirit where faithful’s gets to the ecstasy or trance that may lead to injuries.

ACTIVITIES OF THE CHURCH IN KENYA THAT SHOW THAT THE HOLYSPIRIT IS WORKING AMONG CHRISTIANS.

• Praying
• Bible study
• Speaking in tongues
• Fruitful decision making to an individual or the church.
• Singing and dancing for the lord
• Condemning sins
• Giving offerings to the church
• Celebrations of sacraments
• Bringing of new converts to church
• Patrol care and counseling
• Helping the needy or the poor.
• Cooperation between different churches.
• Writing Christian literature
• Confession of sins
• Preaching or teaching the word of God

DISCUSS HOW YOU CAN SHOW LOVE IN THE SOCIETY ACCORDING TO THE TEACHINGS OF PAUL.

How the gifts of the holy spirit  brought disunity in the church at Corinth.

1. People who had the spirit of speaking in tongues despised those did not have. They felt this was the main work of the holyspirit and looked down upon those did not have.
2. There was competition involving speaking in tongues. Believers were competing in speaking louder longer and in different languages.
3. One who spoke in tongues to the congregation without an interpreter could not be understood.
4. People did not show love which is eternal to one another as they used the gifts of the holy .
5. There was disorder in the church worship at Corinth; they were trying to outdo each other in manifestation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit like; prophecy, speaking in tongues, singing and revelation.
6. They used the gift for their own personal benefits instead of growth and development of the church. Some even demanded payment before healing the sick while others were boastful and arrogant.
7. According to the church at Corinth the only way one could prove that he or she had the gifts of the Holy Spirit was by speaking in tongues. Those with gifts of wisdom, prophecy or knowledge were despised.

QUESTIONS

1. What can Christians learn from the story of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of the Pentecost?
2. Identify some of the ways Christians demonstrate the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
3. State the symbolic signs of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.
4. Identify the elements of the fruits of the Holy Spirit and briefly explain their importance to Christians.
5. Discuss Paul’s teachings on the gifts of the Holy Spirit to the church at Corinth.
6. What was the signifance of the out pouring of the Holy Spirit to the twelve disciples?
7. Describe ways in which gift of the Holy Spirit are used in the church today.
8. Explain the criteria for discerning the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
9. Explain Paul’s teachings on gift of speaking in tongues.