Spiritual Gift of the Word of Knowledge
Definition:
The spiritual gift of the word of knowledge is a special ability given by the Holy Spirit to individuals within the church. Those with this gift receive divine insights and understanding about people, situations, or the mysteries of God’s will, which they could not have known through natural means.
Description:
Individuals with the gift of the word of knowledge are conduits of supernatural wisdom. They receive revelation from God, allowing them to speak with accuracy and clarity about specific details or hidden truths.
Example from Scripture:
In Acts 5:1-11, the apostle Peter demonstrated the word of knowledge when he knew by divine insight that Ananias and Sapphira had lied about their offering to the church.
When the Gift is Present in the Church:
When the gift of the word of knowledge is present in the church, it brings illumination and revelation to specific situations or challenges. This gift enriches teaching, counseling, and decision-making processes with divine insights.
When the Gift is Absent in the Church:
In the absence of the word of knowledge, the church may rely solely on human understanding and miss out on God’s specific guidance and revelation.
What It Looked Like in the Life of Jesus:
Jesus often demonstrated the word of knowledge during His earthly ministry. One notable example is found in John 1:47-50, where Jesus knew Nathanael’s character and background before meeting him.
Practical Ways to Develop the Spiritual Gift of the Word of Knowledge:
- Deepen Your Relationship with God: Foster intimacy with God through prayer and meditation on His Word, allowing Him to reveal insights to you.
- Submit to God’s Timing: Be patient and willing to receive revelations when God chooses to give them, trusting in His perfect timing.
- Discernment and Humility: Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to distinguish between human knowledge and divine insights, and approach the exercise of this gift with humility.
Examples from Church History:
- Smith Wigglesworth (1859-1947) – A prominent figure in the early Pentecostal movement, Smith was known for prophetic words of knowledge and healing ministry.
- St. Catherine of Siena (1347-1380) – A Catholic saint and mystic, St. Catherine received divine revelations and visions, which she shared with others.
FAQs:
- Can the word of knowledge be misused or misunderstood? – Yes, like any spiritual gift, the word of knowledge should be exercised with discernment and according to biblical principles.
- Is the word of knowledge always about future events? – No, the word of knowledge can also pertain to present circumstances, past events, or insights into people’s lives.
Ways to Grow in the Gift:
- Develop Discernment: Seek to distinguish between God’s revelation and human thoughts through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
- Practice Active Listening: Be attentive to God’s promptings and revelations during prayer and study of His Word.
- Step Out in Faith: Trust God’s insights and share them with humility, seeking confirmation when appropriate.
The spiritual gift of the word of knowledge is a valuable tool for edifying and guiding the church. By seeking God’s wisdom and exercising this gift in alignment with His will, individuals can bring forth divine insights that strengthen believers’ faith and understanding.
