Manifestations of Spiritual Gifts

I have recently been involved in a "study" (it seemed more a debate and I withdrew for the moment) regarding the gifts/sign-gifts of the Apostles and how they may or may not be valid today. Since withdrawing from that study, I have found much support in scripture to the validity of "miracles" today. Just this morning in 1 Cor where Paul discussed his "thorn" spoke of God's will to heal or not. My understanding has been that healing, along with other signs and gifts is still valid today, but, as with anything of God, is according to his will, and not only of our faith. Paul had faith, to the degree that God took him to the third heaven. Some have tried to pursuade me that all signs, miracles, etc., ended with the apostles.

My request to any who read this is, how are we to respond to those who have been taught and attempt to adhere to these teachings? I say attempt because of the double-speak I experienced, while putting forth scripture to validate that God can, will, and does desire to give healing (other than spiritual via salvation) to some for the purpose of demonstrating his power to the end of the age. I know He has healed today because He has healed or "delivered" me from many affictions, as well as others who have testified. It is on that basis that I stand firm.

Maria Smith's picture

Dear Tobie- Praise the Lord

Dear Tobie-

Praise the Lord and all His works! What a blessing you have been to the doctor and especially to all those whom you can give your testimony to. We are all the better for it as it gives hope and brings the love of God for His children in a real life situation.

Trust in Him and His mercy always. It will never fail. You are right that not all are healed. The reasons we will learn, if not in this life then the next but it has it's specific reasons. That is not to say that we do not seek healing. We should and we should ask the Lord for it and expect it. However, should it not come then this is His will and one needs to accept and give Him thanks because it brought us to a closer relationship with Him.

You are not rambling- you are doing just great! Blessings and keep getting stronger.

Yours in Christ,
Maria