CENTERVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
PHILOSOPHY OF YOUTH MINISTRY VISION (What) We want to dynamically impact every student, leader, and parent with the Gospel so that they may be rooted and grounded in love and be filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19) and develop for each one a creed to believe, a community to belong to, a call to live out, and a hope to hold onto THEOLOGICAL RATIONAL (Why) This vision is deeply founded in the doctrine of the Incarnation. This doctrine is the belief that God became flesh in Jesus Christ, and through Him we are filled with the love, grace, and fullness of God. This act transforms humanity’s identity, purpose, and community into something new. Because Christ lived in every capacity a human life and sanctified it with His divinity, through His sacrifice on the cross we are given the promise of a new reality. In short it is the act of God meeting us where we are. This, in turn, is how we approach youth ministry. We meet every student where he or she is. MISSION (HOW - PART I) Through relationships we are: 1. Reaching youth for the sake of Christ through weekly outreach programs, special events, curriculum, and conversations that provide opportunities for individuals to affirm their faith in Jesus Christ not only in word, but also in deed. 2. Nurturing youth in their walk with the Lord, encouraging each one in their spiritual journey through worship, the Word, spiritual growth programs, and fellowship in the body. 3. Equipping youth for continued growth in spiritual transformation, in practice, in developing a language of faith, in service to others, in evangelism, in missions, and in the student leadership team. 4. Sending youth out to minister to their world, providing them opportunities to implement and live out that which they have developed a passion for and have been equipped to do – to reach others and start the cycle over again. STRATEGIC PRINCIPLES (HOW – PART II) 1. Love God and seek to be faithful to what God is doing in the life of the community, based on the guidance of scripture (Matt 12:30). 2. Love our neighbors (Matt 12:31) because we have been saved by grace through faith so that no one may boast. Through this identity we come to realize we are all part of a larger body. 3. Dedicate ourselves to evangelism (Matt. 28:16-20) and addressing/confronting issues of peace and justice in the world (Matt. 25:31-46). 4. Desire not just to create “nice and well-behaved youth,” but to be people who are transformed by the power of the Spirit. 5. Commit to building relationships, to using spiritual gifts, to instilling ownership in matters of faith and passion, to understanding the Church as the body of Christ, to mission, to staying culturally relevant, and to lots and lots of prayer.
Three Year Revolving Goals & One Year Benchmarks Every three years we seek… 1. To invite 100 different new people into our church family a. One year benchmark: At least 33 new people in Jr. High and High School combined per year 2. To grow the attendance of our Jr. High group by 30 regular attendees and High School Group by 30 regular attendees a. One year benchmark: 10 more regular attendees than the previous year 3. To create 3 new small groups/Bible studies a. One year benchmark: 1 more small group/Bible study than previous year 4. Provide for the needs of 300 homeless people in Fremont a. One year benchmark: 100 needs met per year 5. Raise $9,000 to help global issues facing our world a. One year benchmark: $3,000 raised each year
CENTERVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
YOUTH MINISTRY POLICIES Centerville Presbyterian Church’s Youth Ministries holds to the following policies: 1. In order to protect the integrity and witness of the volunteer leader, the integrity and witness of the Youth Ministries, and the integrity and witness of Centerville Presbyterian Church the following guidelines are to be followed regarding a leaders contact with students of the opposite sex. a. Volunteer leaders will not engage in hanging out alone or counseling minors of the opposite sex. b. Volunteer leaders will not transport minors of the opposite sex to and from Youth Ministries events in a one on one situation with the following exceptions: i. There is a leader of the opposite sex present in the vehicle. ii. Written permission is obtained from the parents and approved of by the Youth Pastor 2. In order to protect all minors on off campus youth events where a parent/guardian is not present, and to provide safety for all involved, written permission to attend must be obtained prior to the event. Permission includes: a. A parent/guardian signature approving attendance b. Medical information (insurance information, prescription information, list of allergies, list of doctors, emergency contact, etc.) A signed medical release form good for the entire year may be used to ease the permission process, but a signature is still required for each off-campus event. 3. In order to create efficiency and still maintain flexibility with registration and transportation for trips, retreats, and other excursions, the following are in effect: a. The deadline for each trip will be firmly honored. b. If a student wishes to register after the deadline they will be placed on a waiting list. If someone else drops out or more rides can be obtained then the student will be able to register and attend. c. The Youth Pastor and other leaders want as many as possible to attend, and will try to accommodate everyone’s needs as much as possible. 4. In order to protect the integrity and witness of the individual, the integrity and witness of the Youth Ministry, and the integrity and witness of Centerville Presbyterian Church the following guidelines for all youth leaders are to be followed regarding dress. a. Men are to wear their pants at an appropriate height, not showing underwear; and may not go shirtless. i. Bathing suits must be appropriate; no speedos. b. Women are to wear their pants at an appropriate height, not showing underwear; exposing midriffs, or wear shirts that are too tight. i. Bathing suits must be a one piece or a two piece with a dark colored shirt 5. In order to create a safe and comfortable atmosphere and maintain relationship integrity and
accountability, the Youth Ministries at Centerville Presbyterian Church holds to the following policies regarding dating: a. A leader (volunteer or paid) shall never enter into a dating relationship with a student. If the relationship continues, the leader will be asked to step down. b. Students who are in a dating relationship together must limit public displays of affection to minimal; and may be asked to refrain from all physical contact or asked to leave if it gets out of hand. A phone call home to alert parents/guardians may also be permissible. c. Students of the opposite sex shall never be alone at a Youth Ministries event and can result in a phone call home and/or removal from the event. 6. In order to comply with California State Law, no one is allowed to talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device while driving for a church related event.
CENTERVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
YOUTH MINISTRY LEADERSHIP COVENANT As a leader in the Youth Ministry of Centerville Presbyterian Church (CPC) of Fremont, I appreciate that it is a privilege to engage in this high calling. Depending on God, I humbly and earnestly pledge that I will help provide ministry programs for youth that teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. I will demonstrate the gospel through my Christian faith, integrity, and conduct. I will hold myself to the following standards that our church has adopted, believing them to be in accord with the Lord’s plan. Matters of Personal Faith and Lifestyle 1. I acknowledge Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and have a personal relationship with him. 2. I am committed to steps toward growth and maturity in my relationship with Christ, including regular worship attendance and involvement in a spiritual support group (accountability group, Bible study, weekly/monthly conversations, etc.). 3. I am committed to a godly lifestyle and to living with integrity in all areas of life – spiritually, physically, emotionally, sexually. Matters of Complying with CPC Youth Ministries Vision 4. I have read and I support the CPC Youth Ministry purpose and strategy statements. 5. I am willing to be a team player and submit to the authority of the Youth Pastor. 6. I will commit to loving youth just as they are without any pretence, this includes primarily hanging out with youth at youth events and not other leaders. 7. I will follow through on my youth ministry commitments and contact the youth pastor or ministry leader if I am unable to comply with a meeting commitment, including: a. My weekly ministry responsibilities (youth group, small group, Sunday school, etc.) b. Monthly equipping meetings for all you ministry leadership c. Other events (retreats, activities, mission trips, etc.) 8. I will teach in accordance with the doctrines of CPC 9. I will have an “Oh boy” attitude at all events and understand that any program grievance should NOT be brought up in the presence of youth. 10. I will comply with requests for verifications, references, record searches, tests, fingerprints, or other background checks that may be required for my position. 11. I understand that all activities I plan with CPC youth must receive advance approval from the youth pastor. Matters of Integrity Leadership within the context of the Student Ministries is understood as relational in nature. The founding principle behind relational ministry is to maintain an attitude of Christ-like maturity and discernment when it comes to exercising personal choices. The understanding being that as Christian leadership increases, personal opinions, choices, and freedoms decrease. As a leader, you need to understand that your life is being observed and imitated, at and away from the Student Ministries, by those under your care. (Col 3:23-24; 1 Cor 4:2; 8:9; 2 Cor 6:3; 1 Tim 3:2; 4:12) 12. I will not allow my own reputation or that of the church to be hurt in any way as a result of my behavior with children, youth, parents, or other leaders. Specifically, to avoid even any
appearance of evil (1 Thess. 5:21-23), I will at all times avoid: a. Being alone with a minor of the opposite sex anywhere without parental permission (out doors, in a car, in a room, unless the door is open and someone else is nearby). b. Touching or talking to or gesturing to the minor or any adult in a manner that is rough, coarse, overly-affectionate, suggestive or otherwise inappropriate. 13. I have read and will follow Centerville Presbyterian Church’s Youth Ministries policies on dress. 14. I will give appropriate guidance to minors when needed to correct or prevent misbehavior. I will report serious or recurring misbehaviors by or against minors or adults to the youth pastor. 15. I understand that CPC does not permit the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or the consumption of similar harmful substances, nor the possession of firearms or weapons at ay church functions on or off campus. Leaders will not use these items or allow minors or adults to use them at any church event. Matters of Dating 16. I understand that it is never permissible for a leader to enter into a dating relationship with a student. 17. I understand that if a volunteer leader is involved in a dating relationship with another leader the Youth Pastor should be notified and consulted with the understanding that the Youth Pastor will hold the leaders accountable in their dating relationship and has the right to determine if the relationship would be harmful to the ministry. 18. I understand that if the Youth Pastor feels that the relationship would be harmful to the ministry, then the Youth Pastor will ask the leaders to remove themselves from the ministry. If there is disagreement between the Youth Pastor and the volunteer leaders, the Senior Pastor should be consulted. 19. I understand that a personal relationship between two leaders, while acceptable, should never interfere with the ministry. Therefore I will make my personal conduct at ministry events of the highest standard. Signed: _____________________________________________________________
Date: ________________________
CENTERVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
YOUTH/CHILDRENS WORKER APPLICATION In compliance with San Francisco Presbytery, this application is to be completed by all applicants for any position – volunteer or compensated – involving the supervision or custody of minors. It is being used to help provide a safe and secure environment for the children and adults who participate in our programs and use our facilities. It will be kept safe completely confidential and will be locked in our personnel file. It will be used only by the leadership of Centerville Presbyterian Church regarding church work. PLEASE COMPLETE ALL PAGES OF THIS APPLICATION BASIC INFORMATION First Name: ____________________________
Last Name: ________________________________
Social Security #: ________ - _______ - _____________
M.I. ___________
Date of Birth: ________ / _________ / __________
Other names used: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________ Home Phone: (_________) __________ - ______________
City: _________________ Zip: _____________
Cell Phone: (_________) __________ - ______________
Work Phone: (_________) __________ - _______________ Marital Status: ____ Single _____ Engaged _____ Married _____Widowed ____ Separated _____Divorced Occupation: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Your Employer: _____________________________________________________ Start Date: _______ / ______ / _________ Spouse’s Name: _______________________________________________
Occupation: __________________________
Spouse’s Employer: ______________________________________________ Work Phone: (_______) _______ - _________ Names and Ages of Children _________________________________________
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Do you have any physical handicaps or conditions that would prevent you from performing certain types of activities? ________ Yes ________ No If yes, please explain________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Emergency Contact Person: _______________________________________ Phone: (________) _______ - ___________
SPIRITUAL INVENTORY Who is Jesus to you? _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ How long have you attended CPC? _______________________ Are you a member? ______ Yes ________ No Home church (if not CPC) ___________________________________________________________________________________ Please list the name, city, and state of churches you have attended regularly during the past 5 years: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Why do you want to work with the youth/children at CPC? _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are some of your spiritual gifts that you plan to use in your ministry at CPC? _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your vocational goals? _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Have you worked with youth/children in the past? _______ Yes ______ No Where? ______________________________________________________ In what role? ________________________________ For how long? _________________________
Age groups? _________________________
Reference Contact: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
PERSONAL BACKGROUND Have you ever been tried or convicted of child abuse, child molestation, domestic violence or any other crime related to children? ________ Yes ________ No If “Yes” please explain: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Have you ever been convicted of any other criminal charges? ________ Yes ________ No If “Yes” please explain: _____________________________________________________________________________________ PLEASE PROVIDE 3 REFERENCES Name: ______________________________________ Phone (_______) _______ - _____________ Years known: _________ Address/State/Zip: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Name: ______________________________________ Phone (_______) _______ - _____________ Years known: _________ Address/State/Zip: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Name: ______________________________________ Phone (_______) _______ - _____________ Years known: _________ Address/State/Zip: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Relationship to you: _________________________________________________________________________________________ The information contained in this application is correct to the best of my knowledge. I authorize any reference or churches listed in this application to give you any information (including opinions) that they may have regarding my character and fitness for work with children. In consideration of the receipt and evaluation of this application by Centerville Presbyterian Church I hereby release any individual, church, youth organization, charity, employer, reference, or any other person or organization, including record custodians, both collectively and individually, from any and all liability for damages of whatever kind or nature which may at any time result to me, my heirs, or family, on account of compliance or any attempts to comply, with this authorization. I waive any right that I may have to inspect my information provided about me by any person or organization identified by me in this application. I understand that Centerville Presbyterian Church provides insurance coverage for all churchsponsored activities. This insurance is secondary to my own insurance coverage, which is agreed as being primary. If I am uninsured and in the event of an injury to me with a claim against the church’s insurance carrier, I agree to cover the deductable cost required by the insurance carrier. Signed: ____________________________________________________ Date: _________ / ___________ / _________________
QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE SHEPHERD STEREOTYPES Young, Athletic, Likes to wrestle, Good looking, Tan, Plays guitar, Skateboards, Owns a van, Has tons of free time, Has all the answers, Technologically gifted, Cool
SIX KEY QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE YOUTH LEADER 1. Spiritual Maturity -
Has strong commitment to Jesus Christ as their master Understands call to youth ministry Has character of integrity that will be a positive role model for youth Willingness to journey with students through tough questions
2. Relationship Mentality -
Desires to nurture students relationship with Jesus Christ Lives with an open heart in successes and failures Understands that youth ministry is a process and that we won’t always see immediate results Understands that the curriculum is secondary to the relationship Doesn’t just love kids, but actually likes them!
3. Fun -
You can’t take everything too seriously Flexibility is a must Oh Boy! Attitude
4. Contagious -
Posses something that will attract some students Ability to connect and relate with some students Oh Boy! Attitude
5. Patient -
Not short tempered or easily frustrated Understands the limitations and developmental stages of their youth More interested in people than programs, paperwork, or rules
6. Affirming -
Not focused on condescending humor or sarcasm Focused on affirming, loving, and accepting students
FIVE WAYS TO GAIN TRUST OF YOUTH 1. 2. 3. 4.
Be involved LONG-TERM. Youth will trust a shepherd the more they have been around Be YOURSELF. Youth can smell a faker from a long ways off Be CONSISTANT. Youth can smell a flaker too Be VULNERABLE. Youth will trust a shepherd who is open with their faith, their struggles, and their failures. 5. Be FAIR. Life isn’t fair, but we should strive for it.
EXPECTATIONS OF SHEPHERDS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
MENTOR 2-3 youth or young adults ENGAGE youth in small groups discussions/activities each week in ministry area ATTEND at least one camp/retreat/mission trip a year KNOW the names and faces of everyone in small group ATTEND ministry area on a regular basis. CONNECT with youth outside program times once a month.
PRACTICING HOSPITALITY That Attitude: Treat everyone that walks through the door at church as if they were Jesus. The Meeting: 1. The greeting a. Don’t wait for them to come to you, go to them b. Show your excitement that they are here. c. Ask them questions: - What is your name? - What grade are you in? - What school do you go do? - What are some things you like to do? - Have you seen [insert the latest movie title]? - Share with them one of the things you like? 2. The event a. If you feel you can make a connection with this person be contagious b. Sit with them, invite them to sit with you and your friends c. Always makes sure their comfortable, help them out with things you think they haven’t figured out yet (names of people, why we do tings certain ways, who you can go to for certain things) d. Continue to ask them questions and share your life with them. e. If you go and get food, get them some too f. Ask them about their faith, and then just listen to what they say g. Begin to gain their trust - Be yourself - Allow them to be themselves - Be affirming and open 3. The goodbye a. “It was so nice to meet you” “I am so glad you came” “Are you going to come back next week.” “Do you want to go get some ice cream or something” b. Get their phone number (have them fill out a registration card) c. Go do something afterwards to get to know them more The Follow Up 1. Invite them back the next week 2. The next thing you go do with friends invite that person along. 3. Invite them to church DON’T: - Assume someone else will connect with them or they know what to do - Judge them on what they believe, how they look, or what their life is like - Leave them to wander around
LEADING A SMALL GROUP AT CLUB J OR IMPACT WHY WE DO SMALL GROUPS 1. 2. 3.
To help build closer relationships with your youth To provide community and friendship To help youth process and act on what they learn
MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN LEADING A SMALL GROUP 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Too talkative Insecure Inflexible Walked-on Answer every question
STARTING A DISCUSSION AND KEEPING IT GOING 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Allow youth to process the question you are asking Encourage youth to verbalize feelings, however weird it seems Be grateful for every answer Don’t be satisfied with the first answer (especially “I don’t know”) Keep the discussion moving by asking follow up questions, responses, or the next question Be alert to individuals in your group (some like to talk, some like to hide, some might be acting kinda weird on a certain night) 7. Don’t be afraid of silence. 8. Turn difficult questions back to the group (“Well what do you think?” “What do the scriptures tell you?”) 9. Keep confidences 10. Ask why to all yes or no answers 11. Don’t ask questions that assume an answer 12. Ask questions that deal with feelings as well as facts
RESPONSIBLITIES 1. Take attendance 2. Stay connected to small group members… if someone hasn’t come in a while give them a follow up call. 3. Pray and encourage youth to pray. 4. Listen… always be listening.
LEADING GAMES AT CLUB J OR IMPACT TIPS 1. DON’T ACTUALLY TELL THE CROWD THAT YOU’RE GOING TO PLAY A GAME The best way to ruin a game is to narrate that your playing a game. Instead just jump into it. 1. BE PREPARED Time is always crucial because attention span is short. Keep things moving and grooving and the only way to do that is to be prepared. If you’ve never done a game before test it. If something does go wrong… play it off. If you don’t show that something is wrong no one else will notice.. remember OH BOY!!! 2. EVERYONE PLAYS! INCLUDING SHEPHERDS! An easy way to break the stereotype that adults or other leaders don’t care about kids is if they don’t play the games with the youth. Games is not the time for leaders to sit back and watch. Fun memories make lasting impressions but so do bad ones. 3. KEEP THE EXPLAINATION TO UNDER A MINUTE Part of being ready for a game is knowing how to explain it. Remember, keep things moving and grooving. Start by letting everyone know the object of the game (How they win). If they are a little confused at the start of the game that is ok. Get all the shepherds on the same page and you’ll be fine, cause they can help you. 4. TAKE MORE THAN 30 MINUTES TO DIVIDE TEAMS Same principle as above. Have a quick tactic and save numbering off for a last resort! 5. MAKE SURE THE CROWD CAN’T SEE THOSE PLAYING THE GAME Sounds pretty basic, but it is easy to forget when the game or mixer is going on. Always remember it is keeping energy up and about the kids
GAME SUGGESTIONS 1. YOUR GAMES ACTIVITY LEVEL SHOULD PROGRESS AS THE NIGHT GOES ON a. Your first game should be a crowd mixer. Something that breaks up group, and introduces people b. Ideally, your second game’s activity level should go up a little and be a mix between mixer and competition c. Ideally, your third game can be really active and competitive 2. GAME IDEAS: WWW.THESOURCE4YM.COM/GAMES
GIVING YOUTH TALKS AT CLUB J OR IMPACT HOOK, BOOK, LOOK, TOOK METHOD 1. THEME a. What is your main idea? b. Keep it simple and straight forward 2. HOOK a. What is your introduction? b. You need an attention grabber that will win them over in the first 30 seconds. 3. BOOK a. What is your scripture passage? b. Read it or summarize it (if its too long) c. Good talks ooze out of the context of scripture not try to fit a topic into a scripture passage 4. LOOK a. What are your main points? b. No more than 3 main points that should all support your main idea. c. Use illustrations to bring each point to life. 5. TOOK a. How does this apply to my life? b. Make what your talking about practical and real. 6. CONCLUSION a. Wrap it up with a powerful illustration that points back to the Main idea.
TEN TALK TIPS 1. PRAY 2. KEEP IT SHORT 3. KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT 4. PRODUCE GOOD EYE CONTACT 5. GIVE ATTENTION TO BODY LANGUAGE 6. USE HUMORE, BUT BE CAREFUL 7. CHOOSE WORDS CAREFULLY 8. BE HONEST 9. SPEAK THE TRUTH IN LOVE 10. BE REAL
LEADING YOUTH TO CHRIST SHARING THE GOOD NEWS GOES WAY BEYOND PRESENTING A FORMULA FOR SALVATION.
THINGS THAT HELP COMMUNICATE THE GOSPEL TO YOUTH 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Visitors treated in a warm way = “God cares about you, and I do too” Shepherds interact with students = “They actually like us” Students involved in ministry = “God has gifted me” Youth-friendly music = “At least we’re trying” Grace shown to trouble make = “They’ll forgive me” Youth worker caught kissing spouse = “Ewwwww… but cool.” Consistency = “I can trust them” Organization = “We’re important”
WITH THAT SAID IT HELPS TO KNOW THE GOSPEL IN A NUTSHELL SO THAT YOU CAN LEAD A YOUTH INTO A RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST.
4 STEPS TO PEACE WITH GOD 1. “For God so loved the world…” a. God loves you and has a plan for your life 2. We don’t live up to what we were created for and need help. a. This is what we call sin. 3. “…that he gave is only Son…” a. Jesus death for our sins (our needs) is God’s answer to our cry for help. 4. “…that whoever believes in him will not perish but live forever.” a. We must accept this and live a life of thankfulness for what God has done. YOU SHOULD ALSO BE WILLING AND READY TO SHARE YOUR FAITH WITH YOUR YOUTH. IT MAKES IT VERY REAL TO THEM. BE READY TO PRAY WITH THEM TO SURRENDER THEIR LIFE TO CHRIST.
Developmental Psychology of Teenagers (And how we approach it) KEY GOAL OF ADOLESCENCE The key developmental goal of a teenager is identity formation. During this time four areas become pillars for how a teenager sees himself or herself: 1. Their belief system of who God is, who they are, what love is, who others are, what life is about, etc… 2. The communities they associate with 3. The calling they feel on their life whether vocational or personal 4. A hope or dream, or lack of it, that either keeps them going in the face of adversity or stops them in their tracks. Our goal as a ministry to address this need is to… 1. Proclaim what we believe to be true about God, life, love, etc. 2. Provide a safe, welcoming, challenging, place for every teenager to belong 3. Help develop spiritual gifts and plug youth into areas we think they can thrive 4. Live as “Mañana People,” people who understand victory in Christ and seek the Kingdom of God when pain, death, and suffering, are no more, in our thoughts and actions. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THAT BRAIN OF THEIRS (EVERYTHING IS CHANGING… FAST) Puberty and Early Adolescence (Jr. High and early High School, but can extend into adulthood) 1. The onset a. Begin to notice contradictions in stories b. Literalism breaks down c. New and more relationships with others fosters a need for a relationship with God 2. Formal operational thinking a. Can conceive ideal persons and communities b. Can worry; ability to project and reflect c. Experience of world extends beyond family 3. They begin to understand their story a. Need for mirrors (buddies just like them) b. Interpersonal perspective (I see you seeing me - I see the me, I think you see – You see you according to me – you see the you you think I see) c. Tyranny of “the man” d. Things they have in common matter – danger is betrayal 4. God undergoes reforming a. God becomes the ultimate mirror, one who knows us personally and all our depths, yet accepts and affirms unceasingly b. Faith must put these new values and new information together to provide basis of identity 5. Systems of images and values that inform them remain unexamined
a. They can articulate, defend, and emotionally invest in them, but cannot evaluate the system they are in. b. Symbols are not separate from what they symbolize Late Adolescence and early adulthood (Late High School, College, Career) 1. The onset a. Clashes and contradictions between valued sources of authority b. Marked changes by sanctioned leaders, or policies/practices previously sanctioned as sacred c. Encounters with other’s perspectives that lead to reflection on one’s own and how it even got there. d. Experience of leaving home, emotionally, or physically 2. Conscious adoption of ideology and ability to examine it critically a. The “executive ego” is born b. Interruption of reliance on “the man” and the quest to undermine it c. Opinion of others are questioned while the right to choose and take responsibility of their choices grow d. There is a tension between intimacy and isolation e. Individuality takes precedence even over being a part of a group 3. Generally aware of social systems and institutions a. Work at understanding others and how they relate to the self b. Understand social relations in systems terms – morality is related to laws that govern social roles? c. Self interests takes precedence over serve to others 4. Symbols are broken and open up a. Symbols are just concepts to help understand b. DANGER: excessive confidence in the mind and thought (I’m all that and a bag of chips) 5. What’s next a. Recognition that things aren’t as neat as once thought b. Disillusionment with one’s compromises. SO WHAT DO WE DO WITH ALL OF THIS? 1. We can’t assume that we will see them through alone, but must rely on God’s goodness and care. 2. Just as Christ met us where we are in our human condition, we are called to meet each youth where they are and love them and be with them through their transformation. 3. We offer ourselves as mirrors but ultimately hold God up in their mirror. 4. We share our experiences with authority, doubt, intimacy, isolation, arrogance, and humility. 5. We wait in the midst of the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. 6. We let God take control and remain faithful to whatever task God puts before us.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CALL ME? REALLY? OK. OH BOY! HERE I AM. STEP ONE: ME? 1 Samuel 3:1-5 The boy Samuel ministered before the LORD under Eli. In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions. One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am." And he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." But Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." So he went and lay down. 1. The Call a. Like Samuel someone has called your name and God wants to get a hold of you. b. The responsible thing to do is to at least check it out. 2. The Investigation a. Samuel’s obedience moved him from where his current duties were to a new place b. As you discern whether or not God is calling you to a certain place or ministry, you need to at least look into it, understand what is going on before any decision. STEP TWO: REALLY? 1 Samuel 3:6-7 Again the LORD called, "Samuel!" And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." "My son," Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD : The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. 1. The Follow Up a. This is why pastors seem pesky… because God is a pesky God. God calls Samuel for a second time b. If you are called upon a second time, maybe more attention, thought, and prayer should go into discerning 2. The Feeling of Inadequacy a. Notice how Samuel “did not yet know the LORD.” Yet God still chose to use him, as a sinner, as an “unprofessional” to do God’s work. b. After you check things out the next thought that normally goes through your head is.. “I can’t do that.” However, you need to realize you will never have enough to offer a ministry, so never let the excuses of I am too old, not cool, don’t understand youth, etc… be a barrier. With God behind you, you can do anything.
STEP THREE: OK 1 Samuel 3:8-10 The LORD called Samuel a third time, and Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy. So Eli told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, 'Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.' " So Samuel went and lay down in his place. The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening." 1. The Point of Realization a. Samuel needed someone he trusted to help him discern his calling. Notice, Samuel didn’t come to his decision and obedience on his own. b. If you are feeling called to or away from something, go to someone you trust and tell them what is going on and listen to their advice. c. Often times we wait around for a clear “yes,” a sign, that you are supposed to go. However, God sometimes remains silent and you anxiously wait and get frustrated. Consider not getting a no as a yes. Ask God to close the door and if he doesn’t then you have a pretty good idea God wants you to go through 2. The First Act of Obedience a. Samuel’s first act of obedience was to listen for God. Before anything got rolling it began with an opening of the heart to God. b. We are called from the very beginning to open our hearts, to simply be faithful to what God has in store for us. We trust that it is the best God has for us. Don’t see a calling as a burden, but as an opportunity. Go into your new calling ready to learn. STEP FOUR: OH BOY! 1 Samuel 3:11-16 And the LORD said to Samuel: "See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle. At that time I will carry out against Eli everything I spoke against his family—from beginning to end. For I told him that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons made themselves contemptible, and he failed to restrain them. Therefore, I swore to the house of Eli, 'The guilt of Eli's house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.' " Samuel lay down until morning and then opened the doors of the house of the LORD. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, but Eli called him and said, "Samuel, my son." Samuel answered, "Here I am." 1. The Calling in the Hands of God a. Samuel is before God and God lets him in on a cool secret: God is about to do something BIG! b. This is what we have to remember. That God is doing something that will make the ears of everyone who hear it tingle. Always remember the bigger picture that
God has everything under control. c. Also notice Samuel was called to a person, not a program. That is critical. 2. The Attitude a. Samuel didn’t have the simplest or most positive job. He was a messenger to his mentor that he had not lived up to his calling. Yet Samuel did it anyway. He faithfully showed up and went. b. As you live out your calling have the same attitude... an Oh Boy attitude: even though things might not be pleasant and even difficult, this is the best thing in the world cause you are serving your God who holds the larger picture in his hands. Oh Boy! c. Notice how many times Samuel said, “Here I am.” What a beautiful response to God’s calling. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------A FEW QUESTIONS FOR YOU 1. Do you feel God is calling you somewhere or to someone or to something? If so how do you normally go about deciding whether to go or not? If not, why? 2. What do you feel God calling you too? 3. What barriers are between you and God’s calling? How can you deal with them? 4. Examine your attitude about following God. Is it what you think it should be or does it need some adjustments? 5. What really gets your spirit moving? What do you think about that? 6. Make a list of 2-3 people you feel God calling you to minister to. Write their names below and how you are going to connect with them. Names: #1
#2
#3
SPIRITUAL GIFTS Understanding your spiritual gifts can really help you when understanding God’s call in your life. It can also give you confidence in certain situations.
THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS LISTED IN THE BIBLE (Rom 12, 1 Cor 12, Eph 4, and elsewhere) ADMINISTRATION , APOSTLE, DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, EVANGELISM, EKBALLISM, EXHORTATION, FAITH, GIVING, HEALING, HELPS, HOSPITALITY, INTERCESSION, INTERPRETATION OF TOUNGES, KNOWLEDGE, LEADERSHIP, MERCY, MIRACLES, MISSIONARY, PROPHECY, SERVICE, SHEPHERD, TEACHING, TOUNGUES, VOLUNTARY POVERTY, WISDOM
SPIRITUAL GIFTS TEST 1. 0 1 2 3 4
I am successful at getting a group to do its work joyfully.
2. 0 1 2 3 4
I have a strong desire to oversee or contribute to the establishment of new churches.
3. 0 1 2 3 4
I have sense of whether or not a person is acting under God's leadership.
4. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy sharing what Jesus means to me with unchurched friends and neighbors.
5. 0 1 2 3 4
I can recognize the presence of evil in a person and deal with it through the power of Christ.
6. 0 1 2 3 4
I welcome opportunities to minister to people who need comfort, consolation, encouragement, and counseling.
7. 0 1 2 3 4
I see life as an adventure and enjoy taking risks if it moves God's work forward.
8. 0 1 2 3 4
I desire to give generously and freely to worthwhile projects and ministries.
9. 0 1 2 3 4
I pray for those who are sick or injured and they are often healed.
10. 0 1 2 3 4
Other people have told me that I have done things to help them become more effective in their ministries.
11. 0 1 2 3 4
It does not bother me when people drop in unexpectedly.
12. 0 1 2 3 4
I faithfully pray for others recognizing that their effectiveness and total well-being depends on God's answer to prayers.
13. 0 1 2 3 4
People who speak in tongues tell me that I have interpreted tongues in such a way that is considered appropriate.
14. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy spending time reading and studying Christian literature.
15. 0 1 2 3 4
I give guidance which can contribute to the building of God's kingdom; others recognize it and willingly follow.
16. 0 1 2 3 4
People call on me to help those who are less fortunate.
17. 0 1 2 3 4
God regularly seems to do impossible things through my life.
18. 0 1 2 3 4
I have a strong desire to take the gospel to people who have never had the opportunity to hear it.
19. 0 1 2 3 4
It seems important to share the truth of God's Word even if it irritates others.
20. 0 1 2 3 4
I find more satisfaction in doing a job than finding someone else to do it.
21. 0 1 2 3 4
I work to reach out to persons who have strayed from the Christian faith or have become inactive in the church.
22. 0 1 2 3 4
It is easy to organize materials for teaching a Bible class.
23. 0 1 2 3 4
I have spoken in tongues.
24. 0 1 2 3 4
I receive more satisfaction from seeing God's work accomplished than from becoming more affluent.
25. 0 1 2 3 4
I am usually able to analyze a situation correctly.
26. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy the responsibility for the achievement of group goals.
27. 0 1 2 3 4
I have a desire to represent the church at large.
28. 0 1 2 3 4
I can recognize whether a person's teaching is from God, Satan, or of human origin.
29. 0 1 2 3 4
The Holy Spirit uses me effectively to lead others to respond to God's gift
of salvation through faith in Christ. 30. 0 1 2 3 4
God has used me effectively to overcome the supernatural area of the occult.
31. 0 1 2 3 4
I have urged others to seek biblical solutions to their affliction or suffering.
32. 0 1 2 3 4
I am willing to yield to God's will rather than question and waver.
33. 0 1 2 3 4
I can give sacrificially because I know that God will meet my needs.
34. 0 1 2 3 4
I have prayed for others and physical healing has actually occurred.
35. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy helping with urgent tasks around the church.
36. 0 1 2 3 4
Visitors seem to feel at ease around me.
37. 0 1 2 3 4
When I pray, God speaks to me, and I recognize His voice.
38. 0 1 2 3 4
I have interpreted tongues in such a way that the Body of Christ was edified, exhorted, or comforted.
39. 0 1 2 3 4
Through study or experience I have discerned major strategies or techniques God seems to use in furthering His kingdom.
40. 0 1 2 3 4
When I join a group, others seem to back off and expect me to take the leadership.
41. 0 1 2 3 4
I feel great compassion for the problems of others.
42. 0 1 2 3 4
God uses me to miraculously change circumstances that are obviously beyond human intervention.
43. 0 1 2 3 4
More than most, I have had a strong desire to see peoples from other countries won to the Lord.
44. 0 1 2 3 4
I sometimes have a strong sense of what God wants to say to people in response to particular situations.
45. 0 1 2 3 4
I prefer being active and doing something rather than just sitting around talking, reading, or listening to a speaker.
46. 0 1 2 3 4
I have enjoyed assuming the responsibility for the spiritual well-being of a particular group of Christians.
47. 0 1 2 3 4
I explain God's Word in such a way that others understand it.
48. 0 1 2 3 4
I feel welcome and a part of a group where Christians speak in tongues.
49. 0 1 2 3 4
Others tell me I sacrifice much materially in order to minister.
50. 0 1 2 3 4
I feel that I have a special spiritual insight in selecting the best alternative in a difficult situation.
51. 0 1 2 3 4
I am able to understand clearly the long-range and short-term goals of a Christian group.
52. 0 1 2 3 4
Christians from outside of my normal ministry circle often seek out my advice.
53. 0 1 2 3 4
I am able to sense the true motivation of people or movements.
54. 0 1 2 3 4
I get frustrated when others don't seem to share their faith with unbelievers as much as I do.
55. 0 1 2 3 4
Other people have been instantly delivered from demonic oppression when I have prayed.
56. 0 1 2 3 4
It is enjoyable to motivate people to a higher spiritual commitment.
57. 0 1 2 3 4
People seem to view me as a person who believes everything is possible.
58. 0 1 2 3 4
When I am moved by an appeal to give to God's work, I usually can find the money I need to do it.
59. 0 1 2 3 4
I feel strongly that my prayers for a sick person effect wholeness for that person.
60. 0 1 2 3 4
I take action to meet physical and practical needs rather than merely talking about or planning to help.
61. 0 1 2 3 4
My home is always open to people passing through who need a place to stay.
62. 0 1 2 3 4
I often feel compelled by the Holy Spirit to pray specifically for people or circumstances.
63. 0 1 2 3 4
I have interpreted when somebody spoke in tongues.
64. 0 1 2 3 4
I have a wide range of study resources and know how to secure information.
65. 0 1 2 3 4
When I speak, people seem to listen and agree.
66. 0 1 2 3 4
I possess an unusual capacity to understand the feelings of those in
distress. 67. 0 1 2 3 4
Others can point to specific instances where my prayers have resulted in visible miracles.
68. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy learning and speaking foreign languages and eating foods from other cultures if it creates a bridge to share Christ.
69. 0 1 2 3 4
I have spiritual insight from God's Word concerning issues and people that compel me to speak out.
70. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy doing little tasks that many would consider necessary but less important than other activities.
71. 0 1 2 3 4
It is enjoyable to have the responsibility of leading others in their spiritual life.
72. 0 1 2 3 4
I can devote considerable amounts of time to learning new biblical truths in order to communicate them to others.
73. 0 1 2 3 4
I expect to be interpreted when I speak in tongues in a group.
74. 0 1 2 3 4
I have discovered great joy in giving up house, property, or other modern luxuries in order to serve God better.
75. 0 1 2 3 4
When a person has a problem I can frequently guide him or her to the best biblical solution.
76. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy handling details of organizing ideas, people, resources, and time for more effective ministry.
77. 0 1 2 3 4
God has given me a great desire to see the church grow and expand in a specific location.
78. 0 1 2 3 4
I can judge well between the truthfulness and error of a given theological statement.
79. 0 1 2 3 4
I proclaim God's message in a way especially effective for introducing Christ to those who do not know Him.
80. 0 1 2 3 4
I use the Word of God to combat supernatural powers of evil.
81. 0 1 2 3 4
People have come to me in their afflictions or suffering, and told me that they have been helped, relieved, and healed.
82. 0 1 2 3 4
I try to be in God's will continually and be available for His use.
83. 0 1 2 3 4
I find real joy in giving a generous portion of my money to the Lord.
84. 0 1 2 3 4
God uses me to bring healing to people with damaged emotions.
85. 0 1 2 3 4
I appreciate a ministry of helping other people to bear their burdens.
86. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy the opportunity to provide food and fellowship for a visitor.
87. 0 1 2 3 4
I have experienced God answering my prayers in tangible ways.
88. 0 1 2 3 4
I have interpreted tongues in such a way that seemed to bless others.
89. 0 1 2 3 4
Others have told me that I have helped them distinguish key and important facts of Scripture.
90. 0 1 2 3 4
I am a person of vision and am able to communicate that vision to the people of God in such a way that others commit to making the vision into reality.
91. 0 1 2 3 4
I sense joy in helping and comforting people in difficult situations.
92. 0 1 2 3 4
People have told me that I was God's instrument which brought about supernatural change in lives or circumstances.
93. 0 1 2 3 4
People of a different race or culture have been attracted to me, and we have related well.
94. 0 1 2 3 4
People have told me that I have communicated timely and urgent messages that must have come directly from the Lord.
95. 0 1 2 3 4
I don't have many special skills, but I do what needs to be done around the church.
96. 0 1 2 3 4
I am willing to take the initiative in helping other Christians grow in their faith.
97. 0 1 2 3 4
I can make profound and difficult Christian principles seem relatively easy to learn.
98. 0 1 2 3 4
I consider speaking in tongues to be a valuable part of my private prayer life.
99. 0 1 2 3 4
Living a simple lifestyle is an exciting challenge for me.
100. 0 1 2 3 4
People with spiritual problems seem to come to me for advice and counsel.
101. 0 1 2 3 4
I can delegate and assign meaningful work.
102. 0 1 2 3 4
I am often considered an expert in my area of ministry and influence others.
103. 0 1 2 3 4
I am able to sense whether people are being honest when they tell of their religious experiences.
104. 0 1 2 3 4
I have shared joyfully how Christ has brought me to Himself in a way that is meaningful to nonbelievers.
105. 0 1 2 3 4
I have spoken to evil spirits in Jesus' name and they have obeyed me.
106. 0 1 2 3 4
I confront inactive or uninvolved Christians in order to encourage their participation.
107. 0 1 2 3 4
I seem to have more confidence than others that God can accomplish the impossible.
108. 0 1 2 3 4
I have a strong sense of stewardship based on the recognition that God owns all things.
109. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy praying for sick people because I know that many of them will be healed as a result.
110. 0 1 2 3 4
I have assisted Christian leaders to relieve them for their essential job.
111. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy reaching out to new people in my church or community.
112. 0 1 2 3 4
I find myself praying when I possibly should be doing other things.
113. 0 1 2 3 4
When someone speaks in tongues, I sometimes have a clear idea of what God is saying.
114. 0 1 2 3 4
I often discover new truths for myself through reading or observing situations firsthand.
115. 0 1 2 3 4
It is more effective to delegate a task to someone else rather than to do it myself.
116. 0 1 2 3 4
I enjoy bringing God's love to those in the hospital, in nursing homes, shutin at home, or in prison.
117. 0 1 2 3 4
God uses me to do things that defy the usual laws of nature.
118. 0 1 2 3 4
I would like to be more active in getting the gospel to people in other lands.
119. 0 1 2 3 4
I sometimes feel that I know exactly what God wants to do in ministry at a specific point in time.
120. 0 1 2 3 4
I appreciate the opportunity to serve in the Lord's work when the need surfaces in the church.
121. 0 1 2 3 4
I have enjoyed relating to a certain group of people over a long period of time, sharing personally in their successes and failures.
122. 0 1 2 3 4
People have told me that I have helped them learn biblical truth in meaningful ways.
123. 0 1 2 3 4
I speak in tongues as a personal spiritual exercise.
124. 0 1 2 3 4
Poor people accept me because I choose to live on their level.
125. 0 1 2 3 4
People with spiritual problems seem to come to me for advice and counsel.
TIME TO ADD IT UP….
Administration: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the body of Christ to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the body of Christ and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals. This gift is a leadership gift and is often characterized by people who lead the body by steering others to remain on task. These people generally are concerned with the details of how to accomplish tasks, and tend to be masters at delegating specific tasks to other people according to their gifts and talents. Scriptures: Luke 14:28-30; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Titus 1:5. Apostle: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ which enables them to assume and exercise helpful leadership over a number of churches in spiritual matters which is spontaneously recognized and appreciated by those churches. The Bible calls many others, beyond the Twelve and Paul, apostles: James (Gal 1:19), Barnabas (Acts 14:4, 14), Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25), Silas and Timothy (1 Thes 1:1, 2:6), Andronicas and Junia (Rom 16:7), and others (1 Cor 15:5, 7; 2 Cor 8:23; 11:13). This gift is a leadership gift and is in continuing need today for the strengthening of churches and the establishment of new churches. This gift should be looked for in regional directors, church planters, and denominational leaders. Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 2:20; 4:11. Note: Many spiritual gifts inventories combine the gift of apostle with the gift of missionary because the Greek word is the same, meaning "sent one" (literally, one sent with authority, or as an ambassador or representative). These gifts have been separated here with the distinction that the missionary gift is focused on cross-cultural work, where the apostle gift is focused on overseeing the expansion of the Church in a given area, regardless of culture. Discerning of Spirits: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know with assurance whether certain behavior purported to be of God is in reality divine, human, or Satanic. This gift is a practical gift. Christians with this gift can recognize the true motives of people and also recognize when a person is distorting the truth or communicating error. This person often can recognize when Satan or other evil spirits are at work in a given person or situation. Scriptures: Matthew 16:21-23; Acts 5:1-11; 16:16-18; 17:11-16; 1 Corinthians 12:10; Hebrews 5:14; 1 John 4:1-6. Evangelism: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to readily share the gospel with unbelievers in such a way that men and women often become Jesus’ disciples and responsible members of the Body of Christ. This gift is a practical gift. While the task of evangelism is an important spiritual exercise that all Christians should be involved with, God gifts certain members with an ability to have unusual sensitivity to when someone is ready to accept Christ, and will generally have greater success in leading people to Christ than other Christians. People with this gift should be active in training others to share their faith. Scriptures: Acts 8:5-6, 26-40; Ephesians 4:11-14; 2 Timothy 4:5.
Ekballism: The special ability that God gives certain members of the Body of Christ to cast out demons and evil spirits" in the name of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, this gift is known as exorcism, which comes from the Greek work, exorkizo, and means to extract by an oath. In spiritual terms this infers the incantations and spells used by pagans to extract the demonic. Scripturally, this term is only used in relation to the demonic to describe the sons of Sceva's work (Acts 19:13). Wherever Jesus, an apostle, or other believer casts out a demon, the greek term is ekballo, which means to eject, pluck out, or send away. This term is command-driven, and not dependent upon a formula. In Christian life, the term ekballism demonstrates the power we have in Jesus, and minimizes the need for a formula to accomplish Christ's work. Ekballism is a term to separate the power of Christ from the confusion of spiritism around the world. This gift is a sign gift. Jesus gave His apostles the authority to cast out demons (Mark 3:14, 15; 6:13), and the gift was used during the earliest days of the church (Acts 15:16; 16:16-18). Although western society often excuses spiritual powers with rational explanations, there is no reason to believe that evil spirits are no longer at work in our world. However, those with this gift should be discerning in their use of it, and not develop an excessive preoccupation with demons and evil spirits. The Christian focus should be on the victory won in Jesus Christ, and the salvation and abundant life He offers, not the ever-present forces of evil in this world. Scriptures: Matthew 12:22-32; Luke 10:12-20; Acts 8:5-8; 16:16-18; Romans 8:38-39; Ephesians 6:10-12. Exhortation: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister words of comfort, consolation, encouragement, and counsel to other members of the Body in such a way that they feel helped and healed. This gift is a communication gift. This gift is often called "encouragement," but exhortation is used here because the gift is not limited to the connotations that the name "encouragement" implies. Those who use this gift within a teaching or ministry situation are often driven to give practical application to their insights. Often, those gifted in this gift desire step-by-step plans of action to help others mature in Christ. Exhorters often find it natural to discover insights from personal experience when validated and amplified in Scripture. Scripture: Luke 3:16-18; Acts 11:23; 14:22; Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 4:12; 5:1; Hebrews 10:25. Note: Exhortation, Prophecy, and Teaching are considered the communication gifts. The distinctions for each gift are often confused. Often, gifted communicators have a mix of these gifts. Exhortation focuses on personal and practical application of the message or truth being communicated. Prophecy focuses purely on the message or truth to be communicated. Teaching focuses on bringing thorough or adequate understanding of the message or truth being communicated. Faith:
The special ability that God gives certain members of the Body of Christ to discern with extraordinary confidence the will and purposes of God for His work. This gift is a practical gift. Those with this gift often scare other people with their confidence. People with this gift are often very irritated by criticism, as they consider it to be criticism against God and His will. Probably the biggest danger for those with this gift is that they often try to project their gift onto other people. Scriptures: Acts 11:22-24; 27:21-25; Romans 4:18-21; 1 Corinthians 12:9; Hebrews 11.
Giving: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to contribute their material resources to the work of the Lord with liberality and cheerfulness. This gift is a practical gift. While all Christians should practice the discipline of giving through the minimum of 10% (tithe), God gifts certain members of the body to give remarkably greater amounts of their income with liberality and great joy. These people have an acute awareness that all they have belongs to the Lord and they are merely stewards, therefore they know that God will supply their needs and richly bless them in their giving. Scriptures: Matthew 6:2-4; Mark 12:41-44; Romans 12:8; 1 Corinthians 13:3; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7; 9:2-8; Philippians 4:14-19. Note: This gift is often associated with the gift of voluntary poverty, as many with the gift of voluntary poverty also have the gift of giving. However, not all with the gift of giving also have the gift of voluntary poverty. See notes on voluntary poverty for more information. Healing: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom God cures illness and restores health apart from the use of natural means. This gift is a sign gift. Many attribute the occurrence of supernatural healing to a certain level of faith. Those who have this gift must use it knowing that the healing only occurs within the limits of God’s will, and therefore miraculous healing will not always occur. Those with this gift must also recognize that God does often choose to use medical science to bring about healing in a person, therefore doctors and medicine are not obsolete. Miraculous healing will only occur if it will bring the greatest glory to God and effectively grow His church. Scripture: Acts 3:1-10; 5:12-16; 9:32-35; 28:7-10; 1 Corinthians 12:9, 28. Note on Healing and Miracles: The gifts of healing and miracles are often combined, since they both involve the occurrence of events beyond natural means. However, one is focused on the healing of the human body, while the other is focused on other miraculous events that alter the ordinary course of nature. These may in fact be two separate manifestations of the same gift. Helps:
The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to invest the talents they have in the life and ministry of other members of the Body, thus enabling those others to increase the effectiveness of their own spiritual gifts. This gift is a practical gift. People with this gift often enjoy doing routine tasks in order to free others to do the ministry God has called them to do. People with this gift are often not looking for recognition for the work they do. Scriptures: Mark 15:40-41; Luke 8:2-3; Acts 9:36; Romans 16:1-2; 1 Corinthians 12:28; 2 Timothy 1:16-18. Note: The gifts of Helps, Mercy, and Service are often confused. Helps focuses on Christian works and freeing others to accomplish their God-given ministries. Mercy focuses on people in distress and reflects God’s love and compassion. Service focuses on accomplishing little tasks that may otherwise go undone in order to move the greater goal of the ministry or church toward completion.
Hospitality: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to provide an open house and a warm welcome to those in need of food and lodging. This gift is a practical gift. Those with this gift have an acute awareness of visitors and have a desire to make all people feel welcome. People with this gift enjoy visitors in their home, and are usually not bothered if someone stops by and their home is not spotless. Those with this gift are a key to helping new people become a part of the group. Scriptures: Acts 16:14-15; Romans 12:9-13; 16:23; Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:9. Intercession: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers, to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian. This gift is a practical gift. Those with this gift often feel compelled to pray for specific requests when they are made known. Gifted intercessors have a much greater occurrence of specific answers to prayer than most Christians. Intercessors often have an acute understanding that prayer is genuinely a conversation with God, and when left alone, find themselves engaged in prayer. Many intercessors experience times when God moves them to pray for situations when they are not entirely sure what they are praying for. To those who get to know intercessors well, prayer becomes contagious. Those with this gift should help others learn how to pray more effectively. Scriptures: Luke 22:41-44; Acts 12:12; Romans 8:26-27; Colossians 1:9-12; 4:12-13; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 5:14-16. Interpretation of Tongues: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to make known in the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues. This gift is a sign gift. Those with this gift are used to bring the personal edification of tongues to a position where the message edifies the group in which the tongue was spoken. Those with this gift gain a sense of what God is trying to say when they hear a person speak in tongues. Should a person with this gift fail to interpret the tongue when it is spoken and they receive the interpretation through the Holy Spirit, they have done a great disservice to the person who spoke in tongues and to the group as the edification that God desires has not taken place. The interpretation of tongues is often closely related to the message given by an exhorter or a prophet. Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 12:10-30; 14:13-17, 26-28. Note on Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues: When used in a group setting, an interpretation must take place, or else the one speaking the tongue should remain silent. If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body. Knowledge: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discover, accumulate, analyze, and clarify information and ideas which are pertinent to the well-being of the Body. This gift is a practical gift. Those with the gift of knowledge are at home in a book or studying. Those with this gift will often spend countless hours researching information. These people are interested in ideas and problem solving through gathering information and studying. Often, those with this gift have a low need for people. On rare occasions, people with this gift will gather vast amounts of
information through studying and analyzing personal experience, but the primary method of learning with this gift is reading and studying books and other written materials. Scriptures: Luke 1:1-4; Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 2:14; 12:8; 2 Corinthians 11:6; Colossians 1:10; 2:2-3; 1 Timothy 2:15. Leadership: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to set goals in accordance with God’s purpose for the future and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those goals for the glory of God. This gift is a leadership gift. People with this gift are often focused on the greater goal of the group and are not overly concerned with the details. Leaders delegate tasks and details to others to accomplish the greater goal. Leaders are visionaries. Leaders have followers-a visionary without followers is not a leader. Scriptures: Luke 9:51; Acts 6:1-7; 15:7-11; Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 5:17; Hebrews 13:17. Mercy:
The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to feel genuine empathy and compassion for individuals (both Christian and non-Christian) who suffer from distressing physical, mental, or emotional problems, and to translate that compassion into cheerfully done deeds which reflect Christ’s love and alleviate the suffering. This gift is a practical gift. Those with this gift find themselves visiting and assisting those in need, and often feel the pain of the person they are helping within themself. People with this gift find it extremely difficult not to help those who seem less fortunate than themself. Those with this gift generally enjoy helping those with physical or mental problems and do well in ministries involving visiting hospitals, nursing homes, prisons, and shut-ins. Scriptures: Matthew 20:29-34; 25:24-40; Mark 9:41; Luke 10:33-35; Acts 11:28-30; 16:33-34; Romans 12:8; Jude 22-23. Note: The gifts of Helps, Mercy, and Service are often confused. Helps focuses on Christian works and freeing others to accomplish their God-given ministries. Mercy focuses on people in distress and reflects God’s love and compassion. Service focuses on accomplishing little tasks that may otherwise go undone in order to move the greater goal of the ministry or church toward completion. Miracles: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom God performs powerful acts that are perceived by observers to have altered the ordinary course of nature. This gift is a sign gift. This gift is manifested through the supernatural intervention by God into specific circumstances in order to change the perceived natural outcome. Those with this gift must recognize that God only causes miracles to happen in order to bring the greatest glory to himself. Scriptures: Acts 9:36-42; 19:11-20; 20:7-12; Romans 15:17-19; 1 Corinthians 1:22-25; 12:10, 28; 2 Corinthians 12:12. Note on Healing and Miracles: The gifts of healing and miracles are often combined, since they both involve the occurrence of events beyond natural means. However, one is focused on the healing of the human body, while the other is focused on other miraculous events that alter the ordinary course of nature. These may in fact be two separate manifestations of the same gift.
Missionary: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister whatever other spiritual gifts thy have in a culture other than their own. This gift is a leadership gift. Those with this gift find it easy or exciting to adjust to a different culture or community. Missionaries find great joy working with minorities, people of other countries, or those with other distinct cultural differences. Those with this gift have a stronger-than-average desire to be a part of the fulfillment of the Great Commission around the world. Scriptures: Acts 8:4; 13:1-4; 22:21; Romans 10:15; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. Note: Many spiritual gifts inventories combine the gift of apostle with the gift of missionary because the Greek word is the same, meaning “sent one” (literally, one sent with authority, or as an ambassador or representative). These gifts have been separated here with the distinction that the missionary gift is focused on cross-cultural work, where the apostle gift is focused on overseeing the expansion of the Church in a given area, regardless of culture. Prophecy: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people with authority and urgency perceived by the hearers. This gift is a communication gift. Those with the gift of prophecy will often feel as though they have a direct word from God that will comfort, encourage, guide, warn, or rebuke the Body of Christ. Prophets are concerned about evangelism and will have a desire speak strongly against evil in society or in the church. Prophets have a great sense of urgency to their message. Unless paired with the gifts of exhortation or teaching, prophets will often not feel the need to explain their message, but will expect immediate response. The message of a prophet must always be tested in line with Scripture. Prophets would be wise to test their message against Scripture prior to delivering the message, and using Scriptural precedent in delivery of their message. Scripture: Luke 7:26; Acts 15:32; 21:9-11; Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28; 14:3, 24-25, 29, 36-38; Ephesians 4:11-14. Note: Exhortation, Prophecy, and Teaching are considered the communication gifts. The distinctions for each gift are often confused. Often, gifted communicators have a mix of these gifts. Exhortation focuses on personal and practical application of the message or truth being communicated. Prophecy focuses purely on the message or truth to be communicated. Teaching focuses on bringing thorough or adequate understanding of the message or truth being communicated. Service: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to identify the unmet needs involved in a task related to God’s work, and to make use of available resources to meet those needs and help accomplish the desired results. This gift is a practical gift. Those with the gift of service enjoy doing routine tasks around the church regardless of how they effect others. Those with this gift enjoy menial tasks and do them cheerfully. Service-oriented people would rather take orders than give them. Scripture: John 12:26; Acts 6:1-7; Romans 12:6-7; Galatians 6:2, 9-10; 2 Timothy 1:16-18; Titus 3:14. Note: The gifts of Helps, Mercy, and Service are often confused. Helps focuses on Christian works and freeing others to accomplish their God-given ministries. Mercy focuses on people in distress and reflects God’s love and compassion. Service focuses on accomplishing little tasks that may otherwise go undone in order to move the greater goal of the ministry or church toward completion.
Shepherd: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to assume a longterm personal responsibility for the welfare of a group of believers. This gift is a leadership gift. This gift is often called "pastor," however, that name has a connotation of a specific position in the church. In actuality, when pastors have this gift, their ability to continue sustained growth in their churches is greatly diminished, as they tend to require a certain level of interaction with every member of their congregation. Those with the gift of shepherd have a great need for long-term relationships. Shepherds will sacrificially give themselves to other people in such a way that they are built-up in their faith. Shepherds take personal responsibility for the successes and failures of those in the group that they invest themselves in. Scriptures: John 10:1-18; Ephesians 4:11-14; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Peter 5:1-4. Teaching: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to communicate information relevant to the health and ministry of the Body and its members in such a way that others will learn. This gift is a communication gift. People with the gift of teaching enjoy studying the Bible and related materials in order to communicate what they have learned to other Christians. Those with this gift find it easy to organize vast amounts of information in such a way as to make it easy to communicate, understand, and remember. Scriptures: Matthew 7:28-29; 28:19-20; Acts 15:32; Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28; Ephesians 4:11-14. Note: Exhortation, Prophecy, and Teaching are considered the communication gifts. The distinctions for each gift are often confused. Often, gifted communicators have a mix of these gifts. Exhortation focuses on personal and practical application of the message or truth being communicated. Prophecy focuses on the urgency and impact of the message or truth being communicated. Teaching focuses on bringing thorough or adequate understanding of the message or truth being communicated. Tongues: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ (a) to speak to God in a language that they have never learned and/or (b) to receive and communicate a message of God to his people through a divinely anointed utterance in a language they never learned." This gift is a sign gift. Tongues is often associated with intercession and/or faith, but must be recognized as not necessarily being the sign of the baptism of the Holy Spirit or even as evidence of the filling of the Holy Spirit. Tongues, like any other spiritual gift, is given by God to whomever He chooses to be used to His glory and the edification of the Church. 1 Corinthians 13:1 suggests that there are two forms of the gift of tongues: tongues of men and tongues of angels. This would mean that the speaker could be speaking in an earthly language, or in a language beyond normal human understanding. Scriptures: Mark 16:17; Acts 2:1-13; 10:44-46; 19:1-7; Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:10,28; 13:1; 14:13-19, 26-28, 39. Note on Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues: When used in a group setting, an interpretation must take place, or else the one speaking the tongue should remain silent. If a tongue is spoken without an interpretation, the speaker is edified. If the tongue is interpreted, it is for the edification of the body.
Voluntary Poverty: "The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to renounce material comfort and luxury and adopt a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society in order to serve God more effectively." This gift is a practical gift. Those with the spiritual gift of voluntary poverty will often choose to live among people who are considered poverty-stricken in a given area, and live at their level, although they have the means to live at a higher standard. The primary motivation for this choice is to minister more effectively to the people through identification. Scriptures: Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-27; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; 2 Corinthians 8:9. Note: This gift is often associated with the gift of giving, however, notice that the motivation for this gift is for effective ministry through identification with a group of less-fortunate people, where those with the gift if giving are motivated by what their money can do towards God’s work. Wisdom: The special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know how given knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the Body of Christ. This gift is a practical gift. Those with this gift have an excellent ability to apply spiritual truth to everyday life. Often, people in the church naturally seek out people with this gift when they are facing complicated spiritual problems. When a person with this gift considers past experience, they realize that they often make good and correct decisions and judgments. Scriptures: Proverbs 4:5-8; Acts 6:3, 10; 15:13-20; 20:20-21; Romans 12:17; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-14; Colossians 1:28.