How many spiritual gifts are there

For centuries, believers have asked an important question: How many spiritual gifts are there? The Bible offers several lists, Christian traditions interpret them differently, and spiritual communities continue to explore how these gifts empower growth, service, and unity.

While the exact number varies depending on how gifts are grouped or defined, one truth remains constant across Scripture: spiritual gifts are God-given abilities designed to build up the church and help believers serve with purpose and love.

Understanding the number and meaning of spiritual gifts helps you deepen your faith, recognize your calling, and participate more fully in the life of the church.

Let’s explore what Scripture, history, and Christian practice teach us.

Biblical Lists of Spiritual Gifts

To understand how many spiritual gifts there are, it helps to start with the biblical lists of spiritual gifts found in the New Testament. These passages don’t offer one single list but several complementary ones.

Key Passages Containing Spiritual Gift Lists

1. Romans 12:6–8
   • Prophecy
   • Service
   • Teaching
   • Encouragement
   • Giving
   • Leadership
   • Mercy
2. 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, 27–31
   • Wisdom
   • Knowledge
   • Faith
   • Healing
   • Miracles
   • Prophecy
   • Discernment of spirits
   • Tongues
   • Interpretation of tongues
   • Apostles
   • Teachers
   • Helpers
   • Administrators
3. Ephesians 4:11–13
   • Apostles
   • Prophets
   • Evangelists
   • Pastors
   • Teachers

These biblical lists of spiritual gifts were not meant to be exhaustive. Instead, they highlight the many ways God equips believers to support, guide, and strengthen the body of Christ.

When people ask, “How many spiritual gifts are there?” the answer depends on whether these passages are combined, interpreted symbolically, or grouped by category.

Most scholars count somewhere between 16 and 25 distinct gifts, yet Scripture leaves room for a broader, spirit-led variety of abilities.

Spiritual Gifts in the New Testament

Spiritual gifts in the New Testament are consistently described as divinely inspired abilities given by the Holy Spirit. Their purpose is not personal achievement but service, unity, and spiritual growth.

How Spiritual Gifts Work According to Scripture

• The Holy Spirit distributes them as He wills (1 Corinthians 12:11)
• Gifts are given “for the common good”
• Every believer has at least one spiritual gift
• No gift is more important than another
• Gifts must operate through love (1 Corinthians 13)

These New Testament teachings help believers understand that the question “How many spiritual gifts are there?” is secondary to a deeper reality: every spiritual gift is intentional, meaningful, and tied to God’s mission.

Differences in Denominational Teachings

The number and expression of spiritual gifts often vary because Christian traditions interpret Scripture differently.

Charismatic and Pentecostal Traditions

These churches emphasize supernatural or miraculous gifts, such as:

• Prophecy
• Healing
• Tongues
• Miracles

They believe these gifts remain active and are essential for the life of the church today.

Evangelical and Protestant Traditions

These traditions often highlight:

• Teaching
• Service
• Leadership
• Encouragement
• Evangelism

Some recognize miraculous gifts but practice them more cautiously.

Liturgical or Historical Traditions

Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox communities often focus on:

• Ministry gifts
• Pastoral gifts
• Service-oriented gifts
• Discernment
• Wisdom

They may view certain supernatural gifts differently or connect them with sacramental life.

Why Differences Exist

These differences in denominational teachings arise from:

• Theological perspectives
• Church history
• Worship styles
• Interpretations of how spiritual gifts function today

Recognizing these distinctions helps us understand why the question “How many spiritual gifts are there?” doesn’t have one universal answer.

Common Spiritual Gifts and Their Meanings

While the number may vary, several spiritual gifts appear consistently across Scripture and Christian practice. Understanding these gifts can help you discover where you naturally serve best.

Common Spiritual Gifts Include:

1. Wisdom

Insight into spiritual truth and sound judgment.

2. Knowledge

Understanding Scripture and applying it faithfully.

3. Faith

Extraordinary trust in God during challenges.

4. Prophecy

Speaking truth, encouragement, or spiritual insight.

5. Healing

Bringing emotional, physical, or spiritual restoration.

6. Teaching

Communicating biblical truth clearly and effectively.

7. Discernment

Recognizing spiritual influences or identifying truth from error.

8. Leadership

Guiding others with vision, clarity, and responsibility.

9. Serving

Meeting practical needs with humility and compassion.

10. Encouragement

Uplifting others through words, support, and spiritual guidance.

11. Hospitality

Creating welcoming, nurturing spaces for others.

12. Mercy

Showing deep compassion and care for the suffering.

These common spiritual gifts shape how believers serve, build community, and strengthen the church.

How to Identify Your Spiritual Gifts

Discovering your spiritual gifts is an important part of spiritual growth.

Ways to Identify Your Gifts

• Self-reflection: What energizes you? What do you naturally enjoy?
• Spiritual gift assessments: Structured tools that reveal patterns of strength.
• Feedback from others: Community affirmation is essential.
• Prayer and discernment: Ask God to reveal where you are called to serve.
• Experimentation: Try different ministries to see where you thrive.

Asking “How many spiritual gifts are there?” becomes personal when you begin to ask:

“Which gifts has God given me—and how can I use them?”

The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts in the Church

Regardless of the number, the purpose of spiritual gifts is clear across Scripture:

• Build unity
• Strengthen the community
• Spread the gospel
• Meet needs
• Glorify God

Spiritual gifts are not about status but about service, connection, and spiritual maturity.

Gifts That Build Community and Serve Others

Spiritual gifts sustain healthy churches. They:

• Encourage cooperation
• Create meaningful service opportunities
• Reduce burnout by sharing responsibility
• Strengthen relationships
• Support collective growth

When believers use their gifts together, the church becomes a living expression of God’s love.

Developing and Using Your Spiritual Gifts

Spiritual gifts grow with intentional practice.

Ways to Develop Your Gifts

• Begin serving in small ways
• Study Scripture and spiritual disciplines
• Join ministry teams
• Seek mentorship and feedback
• Stay open to the Spirit’s guidance

Growth happens when you use your gifts consistently and with a willing heart.

Conclusion: How Many Spiritual Gifts Are There?

So, how many spiritual gifts are there?
The answer varies depending on the biblical passage or tradition, but Scripture identifies a rich diversity of gifts, often counted between 16 and 25, though many believe the Holy Spirit may empower even more.

The real purpose of asking “How many spiritual gifts are there?” is not to settle on a number but to explore the many ways God works through believers. Understanding these gifts helps you:

• Discover your strengths
• Serve your community
• Grow spiritually
• Participate in God’s mission

Ultimately, spiritual gifts are a dynamic and sacred expression of faith. When you discover, develop, and use your gifts, you become part of God’s ongoing work of transformation, service, and unity within the body of Christ.