By john

Chapter 3 discussed the fivefold ministry gifts that are listed in Ephesians 4.  The New Testament contains two other "gift lists":  the Manifestational Gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12 and the Motivational Gifts listed in Romans 12.  The prophet's ministry relies heavily on these gifts, so Chapter 4 discusses them in some depth.  Because of its controversial nature, the author spends extra time discussing the manifestational gift of speaking in tongues, detailing six ways this gift brings God's grace into the life of the believer.  He then goes on to use a fictional story to illustrate how the motivational gifts -- especially the motivational gift of prophecy -- begin as an inborn trait placed on/in us by God at the very beginning of life.

1. Describe a time when one of the Manifestation Gifts operated through you.

2. What is your own personal Motivational Gifting?  (You can have more than one.)

3. Does the idea of speaking in tongues yourself or being near someone who is speaking in tongues make you uncomfortable?  Why?

4. The author detailed six benefits that flow from the gift of tongues.  List them.

5.  Review the story of young Jake, the budding prophet/pastor.  Suppose you were his pastor – how would you react if he came to you claiming that he saw demonic activity going on in your church?  (Be as honest as you can with your answer.)