What role does the "word of knowledge" play in church community building? Foundational Passage “...to one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:8). What the Word of Knowledge Is • A Spirit-given disclosure of facts, truths, or insight that could not be known naturally (cf. John 4:17-18; Acts 5:3-4). • Always consistent with written Scripture—never in conflict (Proverbs 30:5-6). • Delivered for the good of the body, not the ego of the speaker (1 Corinthians 12:7). How It Builds Community • Clarifies direction – Acts 13:2: the Spirit pinpoints Paul and Barnabas for mission, uniting the church around God’s plan. • Protects holiness – Acts 5:1-11: Peter’s Spirit-given knowledge exposes sin, preserving purity and healthy fear of God. • Encourages the weary – John 4:29-30: Jesus’ insight into the Samaritan woman’s past leads an entire town to faith and fellowship. • Strengthens doctrine – Colossians 1:9-10: knowledge from the Spirit deepens understanding so the church “may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.” • Fosters unity – Ephesians 4:13: shared, Spirit-revealed knowledge moves believers toward “the unity of the faith.” Guidelines for God-Honoring Use • Love is the governing motive (1 Corinthians 13:1-2). • Submit to biblical testing—“Let the others weigh what is said” (1 Corinthians 14:29). • Remain humble; knowledge without humility puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1). • Seek accompanying wisdom so application is clear (James 1:5). • Operate under godly leadership; gifts flourish in order, not chaos (1 Corinthians 14:40). Practical Avenues Today • Preaching and teaching: clarity on text and timely application. • Counseling and discipleship: Spirit-revealed insight uncovers root issues. • Prayer ministry: specific, informed intercession that builds faith. • Evangelism: personal details revealed to open hearts to the gospel. • Eldership decisions: confirming or correcting strategic choices. Expected Fruit • Greater reverence for God (Acts 5:11). • Deeper love and mutual care (1 Corinthians 12:25). • Doctrinal stability (2 Peter 3:18). • Maturity that “builds itself up in love” (Ephesians 4:16). |
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