1 Timothy 4:11-16

Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

2 Timothy 1:3-7

I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Gifted for Service

1 Timothy 4:11-16 + 2 Timothy 1:3-7

Spiritual Gifts Primer

• Gift = Charisma = Grace
• Life is a gift from God | Acts 17:28
• All human giftedness reflects the Imago Dei | Genesis 1:27
• Redemption is the ultimate gift from God | Romans 6:23
• Spiritual giftedness builds up the body | 1 Corinthians 12:7

God gives unique spiritual gifts to each of his people—for his glory and to build his church

Character That Supports Gifts

1 Timothy 4:11, 12, 16

Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity… Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

2 Timothy 1:5

I am reminded of your sincere faith…

Cultivation of Gifts

1 Timothy 4:13-15

Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have… Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.

2 Timothy 1:6

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God…

Confirmation of Gifts

1 Timothy 4:14

Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.

2 Timothy 1:5-6

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

Challenges to Spiritual Gifts

1 Timothy 4:12, 14, 16

Let no one despise you for your youth… Do not neglect the gift you have… Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

2 Timothy 1:7

…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Addressing Challenges

• External: criticism, temptation, pressure
• Internal: insecurity, ignorance, neglect, fear

Put Your Gifts to Use

1. Get the gospel
2. Get character
3. Get confirmation
4. Get going!