Spiritual gifts.
 

I'm taking this out of the "Mistakes backsliders make" thread so I can follow it while doi-I mean avoiding homework.

http://www.apostolicfriendsforum.com...&postcount=301

Steadfast said "This post alone shows us the absolute need to get newer converts into serious teachings about the operation of the Spirit, spiritual sensitivity and understanding spiritual gifts. It should be done as soon as their feet find 'sure ground' in the Church.

What a sad situation, Ferd. One that I've seen played out various times.

Thanks for the post..."

So, let's talk about spiritual gifts. What are they? Who's qualified to operate in them and how do you know if you are? How do you know which ones you have? Anyone have some definitions and examples of their operation?

Steadfast, what should new converts be taught? And why do you feel it's so important? I know the story you're referring to is what you were saying here, but are there other reasons in your opinion and what are they?

I've heard and read multiple conflicting opinions about these things (a really long time ago...nothing recently, I've heard *nothing* recently..heh). I've also experienced some...interesting...things. I relate mightily with the guy who ran out of the church in the other thread. I also have a unique twist thrown in. These gifts are mirrored quite nicely in witchcraft, and I practiced them there as well as in the church before I left (a long time ago..lol). At this time I'm trying to sort out Truth from not truth from reality from which side of the coin things fall on.

So...I guess this is a start of a basically directionless thread. lol

Experiences? Stories? Thoughts? Bible studies? Let's have 'em.

I believe God can work spiritual gifts through anyone he choses. I dont think you have to be super spiritual as much as just yielding ourselves to allow him to work through them. I think its making yourself available.

I believe a "pre-req" to teaching on spiritual gifts should be a grounding in God's word and the simple disciplines of the Christian life. Without that, you get the "wackiness" that is so often displayed in Pentecostal circles. Power always needs a "track" to run on! :D

The Lord began to reveal things to me usually in dreams shortly after my conversion. I had almost no knowledge of foundation truth then. But he thrilled my soul by using me to at times reveal the secrets of mens hearts.

Im not sure you can teach the gifts into existence. If you have a gift you have it and you will know it because you never had it before.

Nonetheless I believe every disciple should be taught the true doctrines of the faith.

I agree you don't have to be super spiritual, that might actually make it more difficult if I'm understanding things correctly.

So you make yourself available..and then what?

I think this is a very good idea. I like how you put this.

So what did you do with the knowledge you had? Things were revealed to you, then what?

I'm sure you can't teach the gifts into existance, but I do think teaching about them is important.

I don't think it's quite as simple as you're saying. But, maybe I'm just misunderstanding? Can you explain the bolded a different way please?

Fonix,

This is so true. The Bible tells us to seek for and pray for spiritual gifts. I have found that I am more sensitive to the spirit and able to operate in the gifts when my prayer life is consistent. If it isn't I get in the flesh and not in the spirit.

Blessings, Rhoni

Foster's book on the Spiritual Disciplines is a good place to start. But I think that some Pentecostals/Apsotolics are afraid of the gifts and account things to "wackiness" that are just rooted in their fear of the spiritual realm.

Blessings, Rhoni

You might have a special talent or gift but the "Gifts of the Spirit" are things you acquire through prayer for God to use you in that area.

Blessings, Rhoni