In this message, Rev. Dr. Jim Master teaches on God’s rules for spiritual gifts, explaining how the Word of Wisdom, Knowledge, Faith, Healing, Miracles, Prophecy, Discernment, Tongues, and Interpretation are meant to operate according to Scripture. Drawing from 1 Corinthians, he reveals that spiritual gifts are gifts of grace, given to build up the Church in order, peace, and spiritual maturity.
In Why Spiritual Gifts Exist Today – Part 4: God’s Rules for Spiritual Gifts, Rev. Dr. Jim Master presents a clear and biblical understanding of how spiritual gifts are meant to function within the Church. Using Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians, he explains that believers are enriched in all gifts by God’s grace and are called to lack nothing as they wait for the return of Christ (1 Corinthians 1:4–7).
This message explores the nine manifestations of the Spirit—the Word of Wisdom, Word of Knowledge, Faith, Healings, Miracles, Prophecy, Discerning of Spirits, Tongues, and Interpretation of Tongues—and shows that these gifts are charismata, gifts of grace, not rewards for works. Pastor Jim emphasizes that spiritual gifts flow from God’s grace and must be exercised with humility and spiritual maturity.
He also examines how people form their theology through Scripture, reasoning, tradition, personal experience, and emotion—and stresses the importance of building doctrine primarily on God’s Word. Addressing issues of carnality and spiritual immaturity (1 Corinthians 3:1–3), he explains why some believers misuse spiritual gifts and fail to follow biblical guidelines.
Drawing from 1 Corinthians 14, Pastor Jim outlines God’s instructions for order in worship, including the proper use of tongues, prophecy, and interpretation. He highlights that gifts must be exercised in turn, with understanding, and for the edification of the whole Church (1 Corinthians 14:12, 26). He teaches that God is not a God of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40), and that true spiritual ministry strengthens believers and serves as a witness to unbelievers.
Ultimately, this sermon calls believers to pursue spiritual gifts with wisdom, discipline, and love, ensuring that everything done in worship glorifies God and builds up His people. It challenges the Church to move beyond emotionalism and disorder into mature, Spirit-led ministry that reflects God’s heart and purpose.
Scripture References
1 Corinthians 1:4–7, 1 Corinthians 3:1–3, 1 Corinthians 14:33, 40