How many spiritual gifts are there

Published on September 16, 2025 at 9:00 AM

How many spiritual gifts are there? For centuries, believers have looked to Scripture and tradition for answers, finding lists that vary and overlap in surprising ways.

But does the number really matter—and how can discovering your spiritual gifts transform the way you serve and grow in faith?

Let’s explore.

Table of Contents

Biblical lists of spiritual gifts

Biblical lists of spiritual gifts appear in several New Testament passages, offering believers clear guidance on how God equips the church.

These biblical lists of spiritual gifts group abilities into categories that support teaching, service, leadership, and encouragement, helping each person understand their role in the faith community.

Spiritual gifts in the New Testament

Spiritual gifts in the New Testament are presented as God-given abilities meant to build up the church and serve others with love.

In several key passages, the New Testament explains how the Holy Spirit distributes these gifts—such as wisdom, prophecy, healing, and tongues—to believers for the common good.

Differences in denominational teachings

Understanding differences in denominational teachings helps readers see why spiritual gifts are practiced and emphasized in unique ways across Christianity. While The New Scripture offers guidance on spiritual gifts, various churches interpret these teachings differently.

Some traditions highlight charismatic gifts like prophecy and healing, while others focus on service-oriented gifts such as teaching, hospitality, and leadership. These differences in denominational teachings often come from distinct theological views, historical contexts, and worship styles.

Common spiritual gifts and their meanings

Common spiritual gifts can shape how we serve and grow in faith. Understanding these spiritual gifts helps us recognize our strengths and use them for the good of the community.

Some spiritual gifts focus on healing and restoration, others bring wisdom for decision-making, and teaching gifts make complex ideas clear. Prophetic gifts offer insight and encouragement, and hospitality creates a warm welcome, while serving gifts meet practical needs.

Leadership gifts provide direction and organization, while mercy gifts show deep compassion. By learning about these spiritual gifts, we can discover our purpose, support others, and nurture a thriving spiritual community.

How to identify your spiritual gifts

Identifying your spiritual gifts starts with intentional reflection and honest observation.

To discover spiritual gifts in your life, try simple self-reflection exercises that highlight your natural strengths, passions, and the ways you feel called to serve. You can also use personality assessments to gain structured insights into traits that often align with specific spiritual gifts, such as teaching, encouragement, or discernment.

The purpose of spiritual gifts in the church

Spiritual gifts play a vital role in the church by equipping believers to serve, grow, and build a strong, united community.

While spiritual gifts differ from person to person, their purpose is the same: to strengthen the church, support its mission, and encourage spiritual growth.

Through spiritual gifts, members learn to cooperate, respect one another, and work together in harmony, ensuring the body of believers moves toward shared spiritual and communal goals.

Gifts that build community and serve others

Spiritual gifts not only strengthen individual faith but also foster unity and cooperation within the church. These gifts that build community and serve others inspire active involvement, create meaningful service opportunities, and encourage a culture of support.

Developing and using your spiritual gifts

Developing and using your spiritual gifts takes intention, practice, and reflection. To begin, recognize your spiritual gifts and look for simple, everyday ways to serve others.

As you use your spiritual gifts regularly and stay open to feedback, you build confidence, grow in faith, and discover new opportunities to help. This steady practice strengthens your connection with God, deepens your understanding of calling, and creates meaningful engagement in your faith community.

Conclusion

How many spiritual gifts are there? The number of spiritual gifts varies across biblical passages, reflecting the diverse ways the Holy Spirit equips believers. While denominations differ in emphasis—some highlight charismatic gifts like prophecy and tongues, while others focus on service and teaching—the core purpose remains consistent: to build up the church and serve others. Asking “how many spiritual gifts are there?” helps us explore Scripture, engage our faith communities, and discover our unique roles in God’s work. Recognizing and developing these gifts allows individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities, fostering unity and spiritual growth within the body of Christ. Ultimately, spiritual gifts are a dynamic expression of faith and service—and understanding how many spiritual gifts are there can inspire you to discover and use your own.