Word of Knowledge
Definition:
The Word of Knowledge is a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit, imparting specific information about a person, situation, or event that could not have been known naturally.
Biblical References:
“To another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit.” – 1 Corinthians 12:8 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
This gift affirms God’s intimate knowledge of people’s lives and is often used to encourage, correct, or heal, fostering greater trust in the Lord's care and power.
Further Reading:
Teachings by Smith Wigglesworth, John Wimber, or the Fire Bible commentary on spiritual gifts.
Discernment of Spirits
Definition:
Discernment of Spirits is the ability, given by the Holy Spirit, to distinguish between divine, demonic, human, or angelic sources of spiritual influence.
Biblical References:
“To another discerning of spirits.” – 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV)
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” – 1 John 4:1 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
This gift is vital for protecting the Church from deception, aiding deliverance, and ensuring that spiritual experiences align with God’s truth.
Further Reading:
Books by Derek Prince, the Discernment section in Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology, and prophetic training materials.
Prophetic Utterance
Definition:
A Prophetic Utterance is a Spirit-inspired message spoken by a believer, intended to edify, exhort, or comfort the Church and often reveal God’s will or guidance.
Biblical References:
“He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” – 1 Corinthians 14:3 (KJV)
“Despise not prophesyings.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:20 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
The prophetic gift strengthens the body of Christ by delivering timely truth and direction under the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Further Reading:
The Prophetic Ministry by Rick Joyner, The Elijah List (prophetic community), and guidelines in 1 Corinthians 14.
Five-Fold Ministry
Definition:
The Five-Fold Ministry refers to the leadership gifts Christ gave to the Church—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—for equipping believers and building up the body.
Biblical References:
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” – Ephesians 4:11–12 (KJV)
Why It Matters:
Understanding and honoring these offices ensures a balanced and mature Church capable of fulfilling its mission and discipling nations.
Further Reading:
The Fivefold Ministry by C. Peter Wagner, teachings by Dr. Myles Munroe, and church leadership models.
Fruit of the Spirit
Definition:
The Fruit of the Spirit is the visible evidence of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit, manifesting in Christlike character traits.
Biblical References:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22–23 (ESV)
Why It Matters:
While spiritual gifts demonstrate power, the fruit of the Spirit proves maturity. A believer’s character is the true measure of spiritual growth and Christlikeness.
Further Reading:
Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit by Christopher J. H. Wright, devotionals on Galatians 5, and character studies in the Gospels.