Your Gifts That Strengthen God's People

Under each gift you will find a brief definition and scripture references. Some of the gifts noted also include a listing of resources for you to explore this gift further.

EXHORTATION
The ability to offer encouragement to those who are disheartened and may be struggling in their faith.

Acts 14:22
Romans 12:8
1 Timothy 4:13
Hebrews 10:24-25

Resources for Exhortation
Abiding Hope: Encouragement in the Shadow of Death by Ann Hagmann

SHEPHERDING
The ability to nurture, tend, and lead people in the ongoing development of their discipleship.

Matthew 18:12-14
John 10:1-18
Acts 20:28
Ephesians 4:11-14
1 Timothy 3:1-7
1 Peter 5:1-4

Resources for Shepherding
The Godbearing Life: The Art of Soul Tending for Youth Ministry by Kenda Creasy Dean and Ron Foster
Feed My Shepherds: Spiritual Healing and Renewal for Those in Christian Leadership by Flora Slosson Wuellner
Rural Congregational Studies: A Guide for Good Shepherds by Mary Agria and Shannon Jung

TEACHING
The ability to analyze, communicate, and apply biblical truths and other Christian teachings in ways that help people grow in faith.

Acts 18:24-28
1 Corinthians 12:18
Ephesians 4:11-14
2 Timothy 1:11
James 3:1

Resources for Teaching
Adults:
What Every Teacher Needs To Know
Keeping in Touch: Christian Formation and Teaching by Carol F. Krau
A Faithful Future: Teaching and Learning for Discipleship by Carol F. Krau
Start Here: Teaching and Learning with Adults by Barbara Bruce

Children:
Out of the Basement: A Holistic Approach to Children's Ministry
by Diane C. Olson

WISDOM
The ability to make exact and practical applications of knowledge imparted directly by God.

Acts 6:3
Acts 6:10
1 Corinthians 1:18-27
1 Corinthians 2:6-13
1 Corinthians 12:8
Colossians 1:28
Colossians 3:16
2 Peter 3:15