The ability to plan and direct details to accomplish goals. Persons with the gift of administration lead the body by guiding others to stay on task. Administration enables the body to organize according to God-given purposes and long-term goals (1 Corinthians 12:28).

Possessors of this gift encourage members to be involved in and enthusiastic about the work of the Lord. Members with this gift are good counselors and motivate others to service. Exhortation exhibits itself in preaching, teaching, and ministry.

God gifts his church with evangelists to lead others to Christ effectively and enthusiastically. We are all called to evangelize as Christians. Christ gives the gifts to do the work of ministry. Some are called to be equippers as part of the gift of evangelism. This gift builds up the body by adding new members to its fellowship (Ephesians 4:11).

Members with the gift of giving give freely and joyfully to the work commission of the body. Cheerfulness and liberality are characteristics of individuals with this gift (Romans 12:8).

Those with the gift of service/helps recognize practical needs in the body and joyfully give assistance to meeting those needs. Christians with this gift do not mind working behind-the-scenes (1 Corinthians 12:28; Romans 12:7). Gives kingdom value to helping behind the scenes.

Cheerful acts of compassion characterize those with the gift of mercy. Persons with this gift aid the body by empathizing with hurting members. They keep the body healthy and unified by keeping others aware of the needs within the church (Romans 12:8).

The gift of prophecy is proclaiming the Word of God boldly in timely fashion. This builds up the body and leads to conviction of sin. Prophecy manifests itself in preaching and teaching (1 Corinthians 12:10; Romans12:6).

The gift of shepherding is manifested in persons who look out for the spiritual welfare of others. Although pastors, like shepherds, do care for members of the church, this gift is not limited to a pastor or staff member (Ephesians 4:11).

Teaching is instructing members in the truths and doctrines of God's Word for the purposes of building

up, unifying, and maturing the body (1 Corinthians 12:28; Romans 12:7; Ephesians 4:11).

For a more in-depth study of spiritual gifts, refer to the workbook Jesus on Leadership: Becoming a Servant Leader available from LifeWay Christian Resources. Call 800-458-2772 to order, or visit the LifeWay Christian Store nearest you.