Spiritual gifts are supernatural enablements for ministry that focus on the "common good" and glorify God (1 Corinthians 12:4-7; 1 Peter 4:10-11). There is a diversity of gifts distributed among believers (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, 28-30; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Peter 4:10-11) by the Spirit at the moment of salvation (1 Corinthians 12:11-13) to build up the Church (1 Corinthians 14:12) and strengthen its unity (1 Corinthians 12:21-26). There are three key aspects which contribute to identification and fruitful enjoyment of your spiritual gift:
Attitude: Humility (Romans 12:3) and Love (1 Corinthians 13)
Availability: Romans 12:6-8 describes how believers are to use their gifts: with faith, generously, diligently, cheerfully. As God gives a heart of loving humility, we begin to serve others wholeheartedly.
Assessment: As a believer keeps in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-26), studies the Scriptures related to Spiritual gifts, and cheerfully serves in the body, God will begin to use that person as a blessing to other believers. Personal joy and spiritual blessing to others in specific ministries are key indicators of potential gifts. As we ask for wisdom (James 1:5) and rest in the Spirit's intercession for us (Romans 8:26-27), God will guide us toward our niche of most effective ministry.
I've heard that Jesus is now reigning on the throne of David. Is he?
When Jesus ascended to heaven, he was exalted to the right hand of God (Acts 2:33; 1 Peter 3:22) where He is interceding for His followers (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25), building His Church (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:11-16) through His Spirit-led followers (John 14:25-27; John 16:7-15), preparing a place for them (John 14:1-3) and sovereignly guiding the supernatural and natural realms (1 Peter 3:22; Colossians 1:16-18) toward "times of refreshing" when God fulfills all of His promises to the Church, Israel, and the world at the end of human history (Acts 3:17-26).
Currently, Jesus is seated at the right hand of His Father's throne (Hebrews 12:2). He is the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16) but He is not yet seated on David's throne which is an earthly throne in Jerusalem from which David's descendant, the Messiah will rule (2 Samuel 7:11-16; Luke 1:31-33). The use of Acts 2:22-46 to link the Davidic throne with Jesus' heavenly rule tends to emphasize theological projection more than a clear connection within the Text.
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