The Holy Spirit gives special abilities and talents to each believer. These spiritual gifts are distributed according to God's design for the common good of the body of Christ. The church is the body of Christ and each member is a part of that body. We as Christians, have gifts that enhance the church and advance the cause of Christ.
Which specific gift is the most valuable one?
Paul states emphatically that the greatest gift is love. Love is the ultimate gift given to us by God. It is the greatest of all spiritual gifts. Love guarantees that our gifts will be used unselfishly within the context of the church.
Why should we understand the concept of Spiritual Gifts?
The apostle Paul refers to about twenty different gifts. He felt that whatever gifts a Christian possessed, they should use them to glorify God. (1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians 4)
1. You will be a better Christian allowing God to make your life count for Him. People who know their gifts have a handle on their "spiritual job description," so to speak. They find their place in the church with more ease.
2. Not only does knowing about spiritual gifts help individual Christians, but it also helps the Church as a whole. Ephesians 4 tells us that when spiritual gifts are in operation, the whole Body matures. It helps the Body to gain "the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ". (Ephesians 4:13)
3. It glorifies God. 1 Peter 4: 1 0-1 1 advises Christians to use their spiritual gifts, and then adds the reason why: "That in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen"