Deeper Reflection
Spiritual gifts are ministry abilities given and empowered by God’s Spirit in each Christian. The Apostle Paul described such abilities as “the manifestation of the Spirit” (v.7). There are four key truths to note. First, spiritual gift(s) are given to each Christian as a matter of God’s gracious choice – “to each is given” (v.7) by the Holy Spirit “who apportions to each one individually as He wills” (v.11). Since these gifts of “God’s varied grace” (1 Pet 4:10) are given to Christians by God’s gracious choice, we should not compare or compete with one another. Instead, we should celebrate one another and our respective gifts.Second, there are various spiritual gifts. The lists of gifts found here and elsewhere in the New Testament²³ are non-identical, differently categorised and non-exhaustive. While each Christian has at least one gift, none has all the gifts. Therefore, we need one another. With mutual respect and honour, let us collaborate with one another using our complementary gifts to serve God.Third, spiritual gifts are empowered by God (vv.6, 11). Christians cannot properly exercise their gifts independently from God. We must prayerfully depend on God; His Spirit provides us the needed words, wisdom, knowledge, faith, power, discernment and strength.Fourth, spiritual gifts are to be used for God’s purposes and glory – “for the common good” (v.7), “to serve one another” (1 Pet 4:10) and “in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Pet 4:11).²⁴ To be “good stewards” (1 Pet 4:10) who serve and glorify God, we must use our gifts to build up God’s people and proclaim Christ to unbelievers.

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²³ See also Romans 12:4-8; Ephesians 4:11-13. ²⁴ Spiritual gifts are never meant for personal gain through the pursuit of wealth, fame, power, authority, or glory for self or family. For all glory and dominion rightfully belong to God alone forever and ever (1 Pet 4:11).