Charism
“A gift of grace”
Summary
A spiritual gift bestowed by God, particularly the extraordinary gifts granted to the apostles and early Christians for ministry and service.
☩Definition
The Greek word charisma means a gift of grace, a spiritual endowment granted by God for the benefit of the church. In the early church, the term was also used as one of the names for baptism. Paul discusses spiritual gifts extensively, listing various charisms including wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, tongues, and interpretation of tongues.
☩Distribution of Gifts
Jesus gave His disciples authority over unclean spirits and to heal every disease. The apostles performed signs and wonders, and these gifts were transmitted through the laying on of hands. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples and they spoke in tongues. Similar experiences occurred when Cornelius's household and the Ephesian disciples received the Spirit.
Related Verses9 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Charisma," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).