Christian Family Services Ministry

12-30-2020 – A Word to the Wise – I want to clarify my use of the Romans 12 passages on the gifts for those who read my material.

Definitions and use of my interpretations of Romans 12 should be seen in terms of all mankind. It may indeed have a wider interpretation for the present day church. However I am using it as a definition of all mankind and a pattern of all creation

For the purpose of my studies I am limiting it to a detectable pattern of God’s creation that has always existed. With the advent of the church this basic building block was enhanced by the Lord. However we are looking at it in a narrower context which allows one to utilize it to communicate and understand God’s creation.

The purpose for seeing it in this narrower context allows one to utilize the material in a global context rather than just the church. Further it helps one understand both Christian and non-Christians context. It allows us to use the understanding with self, family, friends, at work, even with our enemies.

One may see these traits in individuals going back to creation. With the advent of Christianity we have the Lord intensifying them in Christians. However the root gift has always existed. The abilities identify us as God’s creation. The traits are apparent in both good people and evil individuals; in Cain, and Jezebel, as well as Elijah and Joseph.

This therefore is the chief reason I refer to them as ‘motivational gifts’, as opposed to ‘spiritual gifts’. Moreover, in the Romans passage in the Greek, they are not called ‘spiritual’ gifts rather just ‘gifts’.

This usage thus explain s why one sees some negative traits in a ‘good’ person and some positive traits in a ‘bad’ person. We are all God’s creation and are imprinted with some attributes of His character. Therefore we may all be potentially ‘found’ by Him when we are lost or alone. Just as we brand animals that identify ownership, the gifts identify God’s ownership. Some, or many wander off, but may be found again because of these inborn traits which identify ownership. Some, never return to their owner.

Over the next few weeks I may have more to say about the gifts but those remarks must be seen in this context.