About the BOOK
In a world where ignorance can be tragically pervasive, there exists a special kind of ignorance—the lack of understanding concerning the things of the Spirit and, particularly, the Gifts of the Spirit. F.J. Turley addresses this gap in knowledge with profound insight and scriptural clarity in his book, “The Gifts of the Spirit Unveiled.”
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 12:1), ardently expresses the importance of not remaining ignorant about spiritual gifts. Turley, echoing this sentiment, highlights the urgency for believers to grasp the scriptural teachings on this vital subject. In an era where charismatic renewal sweeps through historical churches, the need to comprehend and embrace these divine gifts becomes ever more crucial.
Turley emphasizes that the twenty-first-century church must seek the empowerment reminiscent of the first-century church. The anointing of the Holy Ghost, manifested through diverse gifts resident in the Body of Christ, holds the key to fulfilling the God-given mission to the world.
Despite some misconceptions suggesting that the gifts of the Spirit were only for the establishment of the early church, Turley redirects attention to Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 12:28. The presence of these gifts in the church, categorized as apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, and gifts of healings, reinforces their relevance in the present day.
Comparable to the talents and abilities vital for a body’s proper functioning, the diversity of operations within the Body of Christ becomes essential. Turley draws on 1 Corinthians 12:6 to underscore that through these gifts, the indwelling Christ is revealed, and God’s saving purpose for the world is actualized.
Beyond their individual significance, the gifts of the Spirit play a unifying role within the body. Quoting Romans 12:4, Turley reminds believers of their interdependence, emphasizing the gifts’ ability to unite members, preventing a divisive mindset.
However, Turley also challenges the misuse of these gifts for personal gain. He reminds ministers possessing gifts of healing and miracles that these manifestations are intended for the benefit of the entire body, not for personal glory.
Turley poignantly illustrates that a church devoid of supernatural gifts is like Samson without his hair—vulnerable and powerless against spiritual adversaries. The gifts, designed to present the church as the true representative of Christ on earth, serve as essential armory against the spiritual Philistines of Satanic powers.
The book emphasizes that just as Jesus authenticated His Messiahship through miraculous healings, the church today must display the supernatural to convince the world of Christ’s authenticity and authority.
‘The Gifts of the Spirit Unveiled’ invites readers to recognize their privilege and responsibility to enter the realm of supernatural gifts, seeking those that equip them for the specific ministry assigned by God. Turley addresses leaders, seeking wisdom, knowledge, and discernment, and encourages believers to desire and covet the best gifts.
In conclusion, Turley presents the idea that a Body of Christ endowed with these gifts becomes formidable—an army with banners. The book categorizes the nine gifts into three sets—Gifts of Revelation, Demonstration, and Expression, emphasizing their distinct roles in revealing the character and virtues of Christ through the Body of Christ. Readers are urged to ‘covet earnestly the best gifts’ and to ‘desire spiritual gifts’ as they explore the transformative power within the dynamic realm of the Gifts of the Spirit