Seventh-day Adventists believe that the spiritual gifts mentioned in the New Testament did not end in the apostolic age. Instead, the Spirit continues to supply the church with the gifts that are needed for effective ministry.

1. Ephesians 4:10-14 suggests that some are equipped to be apostles, some prophets, some pastors and teachers, and some evangelists. So, is evangelism the task of just “some” to whom the gift has been given? Or, should everyone be an evangelist?
2. In light of Ephesians 4, should witnessing and evangelism be encouraged, or should it spring naturally from the heart of one who follows Jesus? In other words, if we must press people to “do evangelism”does that suggest that they may not in fact be equipped to be evangelists? Should we make a distinction between evangelizing and being an evangelist?
3. When exploring the topic of spiritual gifts, we often turn to three passages in the New Testament: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, and Ephesians 4. I believe the “gifts” listed in these passages are representative rather than exhaustive.
   1. Of the gifts that are listed, which are most neglected in the church today? Why is it that we tend to ignore (or redefine) the more “charismatic” gifts that are listed? For example, how would we relate to someone who informed the Ministry Placement Committee of the church that they had the gift of prophecy, or the gift of miraculous powers?
   2. After looking through these passages, what additional spiritual gifts do you feel are especially needed in the church–gifts that perhaps are not listed in the Bible?
   3. For what purpose are spiritual gifts given?
   4. Who gives the gift?
   5. How does one go about discovering the areas where they are gifted?
   6. Is it appropriate to ask God to give us a specific spiritual gift? (See 1 Cor 12:30-31; 14:1)
   7. Is there a difference between a spiritual gift and a talent?
4. Can someone who struggles with doubt and who has a weak relationship with God still be an effective witness? Should one wait until they are strong before they witness to others, or does the act of witnessing build strength?
5. Clearly, different individuals have different gifts. Is the same true for different local churches? How about different denominations?