The Ministry Gifts

The Ministry Gifts of the Holy Spirit,  A Word to Teachers and Students on The Ministry Gifts

The apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:8-12 that Jesus “gave gifts to men.” These precious and important gifts are men and women God has called as His apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers.  This study reveals how these gifts are being restored to His church today and how they are to function to equip the saints for the work of the ministry.  It provides an understanding of biblical eldership, the fivefold ministry and how these ministry gifts function together in the local church.

Some of the truths presented in this manual may challenge traditional beliefs and patterns.  We must remember that as the restoration work that God is doing with His church occurs, Satan would love to take this opportunity to bring division and disunity.  Instead, we must all be open and teachable in our spirits, and at the same time loving and maintaining unity with those who desire to retain traditional patterns.

We suggest that before teaching this course you listen to the audio tapes on this series and saturate yourself with the truths of God's Word concerning biblical eldership and the fivefold ministry giftings.  This manual will then provide the outline for you to use as you impart these truths to others.

Personal life illustrations are a must for effective teaching.  The author has omitted these from this work so that the teacher will provide illustrations from his or her own rich experiences or those of others to which the students will be able to relate.

It should always be remembered that it's the Holy Spirit who has come to teach us all things and that when we are studying or when we are teaching we should always be empowered and led by the Holy Spirit.

This study is excellent for personal or group studies, Bible schools, Sunday schools and home groups.

It's important that both the teacher and the student have copies of this manual during the course of the study.  The best books are written in, underlined, meditated on and digested.  We have left space for your notes and comments.  The format has been designed with a fast reference system for review and to assist you in finding areas again.  This special format makes it possible for each person, once they have studied through this material, to teach the contents to others.

Paul wrote to Timothy:

And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.  2 Timothy 2:2b

We believe God planned for each student to become a teacher.  This manual is designed for this multiplication in the lives, the ministry and the future teaching of others.  Every student, by using this manual, can teach this course easily to others.