The following articles are related to the topic of SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Didn’t Paul Command, “Forbid not to speak in tongues”?

In a former article , we responded to an inquiry dealing with the nature of the gift of "speaking in tongues," as such is set forth in Acts 2; 1 Corinthians 12-14; etc.In rejoinders to our article, several courteous readers wrote to us, essentially asking this question: "Why do you forbid to speak in tongues, when the Bible says, 'Forbid ... read more »

1 Corinthians 14:26 – Presentation Worship

It is becoming increasingly popular to assert that the New Testament contains the authority for "presentation worship" in the church assembly. By this it is meant that activities like solo and group singing are sanctioned in the Scriptures. First Corinthians 14:26 is cited as proof. The fact is, 1 Corinthians 14:26ff offers no such support. The apostle asks: "What is ... read more »

What Does the Bible Say About Miracles?

In discussing the theme of biblical miracles, several important areas of consideration must be surveyed. First, exactly what is a miracle? People use that term rather loosely-frequently, not at all in a scriptural sense. And what are those tell-tale traits that identify the miracle and distinguish it from a natural phenomenon? If folks only knew what to look for in ... read more »

What Was the Gift of Tongues?

"Please explain 1 Corinthians 14:2. Would not this indicate that the 'tongue' was a mysterious, spiritual utterance, known only to God, rather than a human language?" No, it wouldn't. Note the following factors: - The term "unknown" is not in the original text. It was added by the King James translators. It is unwarranted and unnecessary. - The nature of ... read more »

1 Peter – The True Grace of God

When Peter concluded his first epistle, he summarized the basic purpose of the narrative. "I have written unto you briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God; stand ye fast therein" (5:12). The thrust of the book is thus threefold. It contains certain exhortations to godliness.It sets forth the nature of true grace.It urges fidelity to ... read more »

The Classification of Bible Commands

The Bible contains a variety of literature types. It has, for example, historical narrative. Genesis 1-2 (and related contexts) is the only reliable account of the origin of the universe and of mankind in existence. The Scriptures contain lofty poetry and powerful prophecy. All of that aside, however, every honest student must also admit that the Bible is a book ... read more »

Please Explain 1 Timothy 5:24-25

Could you help me to understand the following passage? "Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment: and some men they follow after. Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid" (1 Timothy 5:24-25). It will first be important to observe the larger context in which this puzzling ... read more »

May One “Judge” Other Churches?

"If a Christian teacher says that 'false teaching' is occurring in a congregation of which he is not a member, would this be considered 'judging'? Would it violate a church's 'autonomy'?" There are actually two elements of this question that require consideration. JudgingSomehow, many folks assume that all judging is wrong (yet they are not reticent to judge those whom ... read more »

False Ideas about the Holy Spirit

Jesus warned: Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves (Matthew 7:15). False teachers do exist (2 Peter 2:1), and the ideas they advocate are dangerous. In this study, we will direct attention to some false teachings relative to the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit Not a Person One of the most fundamental ... read more »

Anointing with Oil – James 5:14

In the book of James, the inspired writer exhorts: "Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith shall save him that is sick, and the Lord shall raise him up" (Jas. 5:14, 15). ... read more »