ASSISTING GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

"how shall we escape if we ignore such great salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will" (Hebrews 2:3-4).

"Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But eagerly desire the greater gifts and now I will show you the most excellent way" (I Corinthians 12:29-31).

In the very earliest days of the church, the only available Scripture was the Old Testament; not much of New Testament Scripture was written nor widely circulated (There are fragments of Mark's gospel dated in the 50's that have been discovered. All of the cannon of NT Scripture was written before 70CE). Sufficient numbers of appropriately trained preachers, teachers and leaders were not available, except by Divine intervention, to assist the church in its function as the Body of Christ(I Corinthians 12:27). And intervene He did, supplying the church of the New Testament with those assisting gifts.

"When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money. . ." (Acts 8:18). It is apparent that these assisting gifts of the Spirit were given through the laying on of the apostles' hands. Like Simon, there are many who have lusted after apostolic authority to dispense Spiritual gifts, but that was a special authority delegated to only the apostles of Christ named in the New Testament.

What is important to remember about miraculous gifts is that they are not indicative of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. It is possible to have one and not be a Godly person at all; Balaam and his donkey, and Caiaphas, the high priest are a couple of examples.

Grace&Peace;
Tom