Spiritual gifts
The Spiritual Gift of Knowledge
Seeking truth so the church can be built up
The spiritual gift of knowledge is a Spirit-given ability to understand and explain biblical truth in ways that build up the church. Paul calls it "the message of knowledge" (1 Corinthians 12:8), and he insists that knowledge must serve love.
“For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
What it is
You probably know someone who can tell you where a passage fits in the whole Bible, or how the church has understood a doctrine for centuries, and then explain it so you understand it too. They've usually read more than anyone asked them to.
Paul doesn't define the gift, and Christians understand it in more than one way. Many see it as an unusual grasp of biblical truth, used to teach and guard the church. Whatever else it is, Paul warns that "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up" (1 Corinthians 8:1).
Where Scripture shows it
Ezra "had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel" (Ezra 7:10). Apollos was "well versed in the Scriptures" (Acts 18:24), and in Achaia he became a great help to the believers (Acts 18:27).
What it can look like
- Friends text you Bible questions, and you enjoy tracking down the answer.
- You notice when a verse is pulled out of context, and you can show why.
- You can explain the Trinity in words a new believer can follow.
- Studying often ends with you worshiping.
What to watch for
- Pride. Knowledge can make you feel above people who know less.
- Correcting people who didn't ask for it.
- Caring more about ideas than about the people they're meant to serve.
- Letting study take the place of obedience (James 1:22).
Ways to serve with it
- Offer to help your pastor or small group leader research a passage.
- Teach a short class on one book of the Bible or a basic doctrine.
- Answer a friend's hard question patiently, and point them to good resources.
- Memorize Scripture so it's ready when someone needs it.
Related gifts
Holy habits that fit this gift
These practices can help you steward this gift over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is a word of knowledge?
Older translations of 1 Corinthians 12:8 say word of knowledge, and the BSB has "the message of knowledge" there. In Pentecostal and charismatic churches it usually means a specific fact the Spirit reveals about a person or situation, often during prayer ministry. Other Christians understand it as Spirit-given insight into God's truth for teaching the church. Ask how your church teaches it.
What's the difference between knowledge and wisdom?
Knowledge is understanding what is true, and wisdom is applying it well in a real situation. Paul lists them side by side (1 Corinthians 12:8). Someone with knowledge can explain what Scripture teaches about marriage. Someone with wisdom knows what to say to a couple in crisis.
How do I know if I have the gift of knowledge?
Two questions help. Do others learn when you share what you've studied? And is all that study making you more loving? Paul cares most about the second one (1 Corinthians 8:1-3).
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