Video Notes: 

• The grace is the same, the gifts are different.
• These aren’t titles, they are functions.
• We each have gifts, use them!
  • Prophecy – One who speaks in God’s name.
    • Prophets of the Old Testament sometimes spoke of future events, but more often spoke of what God had done in the past to address the current situation of the hearers.
    • Prophet speech should be the truth, but it’s not received with the same authority as the Old Testament and the apostles. Thus, in 1 Corinthians 14 and elsewhere we are told to scrutinize what these prophets taught. The same is true today.
    • In proportion to our faith – This is debated.
      • It could be a reference to that in which we have faith, God’s Word.
      • It could be a reference to the faith we receive from God by which we use the gifts God gives.
      • This isn’t implying that some prophets have more or greater faith than others.
  • Serving – Being a servant to others in a broad sense including a large variety of ways we may serve.
  • Teaching – Explaining the Word of God and instructing others in the Word of God, the Bible.
    • The difference between prophecy and teaching is somewhat blurred and they probably overlap quite a bit.
  • Exhortation – Encouragement is probably a better word, but encouragement that includes exhortation, comfort, urging, etc.
  • Contribution – Sharing may be a better translation. Giving generously from what God has given you to others in need.
  • Leadership – Various roles of leadership within the church and even in the home.
  • Acts of Mercy – Caring for others. Caring for the sick, disabled, or aging, helping the poor, etc. Doing so with cheerfulness.
• Interestingly, there is no mention of the more fantastical gifts, like healing, tongues, etc.
  • The gifts of prophecy, serving, teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, and mercy are common and necessary to the church. We should expect to see these regularly in the church.
• Remember, that all of this is within the context of God’s mercies and grace. God has already given you all you need for life and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. As God has given freely to you, so you can now give freely to others using the specific gifts and vocations/callings God has given you.