Lecture Notes: Office Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Introduction

• Series Name: Office Gifts
• Key Speaker: Brent
• Main Themes:
  • Gifts are given by the grace of God.
  • They establish and promote God's righteousness on Earth.
  • Offices of the Holy Spirit are gifts from God, not titles to be assumed.

Understanding Office Gifts

• Misconceptions:
  • Often associated with corporate mentality and authoritative titles.
  • Importance of understanding as gifts, not just positions or titles.
• Example: Reference to "The Office" TV show to illustrate the difference in titles.

Commonly Discussed Office Gifts

• Five-Fold Ministry: Sometimes misused and abused.
• Titles Discussed: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers
  • Misuse can lead to manipulation and control.
  • True offices are bestowed by God, not by human appointment.

Biblical References

• Main Scripture: Ephesians 4:9-16
  • Importance of unity and maturity in faith.
  • Offices to equip saints for ministry work.

Baseline Concepts

1. Jesus’s Ascension:
   • Reminder of Jesus's heavenly origins and deity.
2. Gifts Given by Jesus:
   • Offices are gifts to equip and call individuals.
   • Misuse of office titles is akin to theft from God.
3. Daily Equipping by Jesus:
   • Bringing God's kingdom to earth is a daily endeavor.
4. Christ as the Head of the Body:
   • We contribute as parts of the body; Christ is the head.
5. Producing Fruit of Love:
   • Gifts must produce love and unity.

Detailed Examination of the Prophet

• Modern vs. Historical Prophets:
  • Modern prophets often predict geopolitical events without accuracy.
  • True prophets speak only what God instructs.

Characteristics of True Prophets

• Scripture References:
  • Exodus 4:12, Deuteronomy 18:18, Jeremiah 1:9, Hosea
• Key Traits of Prophets:
  • Do not speak on personal authority.
  • Words must be directly from God.

Modern Challenges and Misuse

• Misinterpretations and Speculations:
  • Incorrect prophetic claims cause harm and skepticism.
• Role of Community and Accountability:
  • Importance of not operating alone.

Gender in Prophetic Roles

• Biblical Examples of Female Prophets:
  • Mention of women prophets in Kings, Judges, and Exodus.

Pursuing Prophecy

• 1 Corinthians 14:1
  • Encouragement to pursue love and earnestly desire gifts, especially prophecy.

Key Takeaways

• Role of a Prophet:
  • Proclaim God's holiness and encourage repentance.
  • Speak against injustice and promote covenant faithfulness.
• Warnings:
  • Beware of self-proclaimed prophets who lack genuine calling.
  • Prophetic words must align with scripture and God's will.

Conclusion

• Call to Action:
  • Reflect on personal responsibility and gifts.
  • Seek community accountability.
  • Embrace roles given by God for the edification of the church.