Leaders are to broker spiritual gifts

Understanding and applying the gifts given to us according to grace is crucial. As Paul describes in Romans 12, these are spiritual gifts and tools for us to use. Every believer, including Christian leaders, is a steward of the abilities he or she has been given.

As Christian leaders, we have a significant role. We are not just managers but stewards of the unique gifts in Romans 12. Our goal should be to empower and maximize everyone’s gifts, as these gifts are central to our lives. Paul’s gift list includes:

Prophecy: challenging others by declaring God’s truth and calling for action.

Service or ministry: to serve others and meet their needs. Teaching: to explain truth so that others can understand and apply it.

Exhortation: encouraging, strengthening, and inspiring others to be their best.

Giving: to generously share what God has given. Leadership: to govern and oversee others so that the group moves forward. Mercy: to empathize with, cheer, and show compassion to those who hurt. ¹

Too often the church does not know or acknowledge the importance of such guidance in life. For example, one who is gifted in theological truth-seeking and teaching, may be relegated to selling Christian books or handing out tracts prepared by others. I believe that conference leaders with macro-discernment and theological training – moreover born of the Spirit, must be involved in assessing gifts within the church, necessarily established with church guidance roles. I believe this is a grave responsibility under Christ — a very serious obligation that must be taken seriously by all biblical churches. Babes in Christ need godly leaders to help them see their potential to find their best life-work for the Lord.