At each

To the Corinthians, Paul said : "To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good" (1 Corinthians 12: 7). Here it is, prominently. What are we going to do with this verse? The infallible Word of God says that the manifestation of the Spirit has been given to everyone for the common good. To each, not only to the apostles. Think of the impact of this verse. Is this something we preach ? Do we believe it ? Do we hope ? God has promised each of us a manifestation - supernatural by definition - of the Holy Spirit. This is an integral part of being a Christian.

One of the ways in which the Spirit glorifies Christ is by building his body for the common good. Insofar as the Church is a spiritual organ, it needs a spiritual ministry to edify it. And the spiritual ministry can only take place if the Holy Spirit manifests through human vases.

Those who dispense false demonstrations and false teachings on the Spirit have frightened many people who love their Bible. Some who sincerely love the Word see these demonstrations and say : "No thanks. Let us just sing some harmless songs, have a good Bible study and then go home. "But our Lord Jesus Christ never wanted his Church to operate without visitation and blessing from the Spirit of the living God. Why would He send us another help, if not to help us ? Just look at the world around us. Do we not see the evident need for something new that comes from God, to overcome the powerful influence of the devil ?

The early Church was alive and active through the Holy Spirit. There is not a single verse that relegates the importance and vitality of the Spirit to this one primitive church. We must believe that the Holy Spirit is present for us today.

Jim Cymbala