Spiritual gifts
The Spiritual Gift of Pioneering
Starting faithful work where it is needed
Pioneering is the Spirit-given drive to cross boundaries, start new gospel work, and strengthen what has begun. Some gift tests call it apostleship, though it carries none of the unique authority of the Twelve or Paul.
“In this way I have aspired to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation.”
What it is
Put some Christians in a church where every ministry is already running, and they get restless. They want to start the Bible study nobody has started, plant a church where there isn't one, or learn a language so a people group can hear about Jesus.
The word apostle comes from a Greek word for someone sent out. In most of the New Testament it means the Twelve and Paul, whose teaching is the church's foundation (Ephesians 2:20), and that office is closed. The word is also used more loosely for messengers sent by churches (2 Corinthians 8:23), and that kind of sending is what this gift describes.
Where Scripture shows it
In Antioch, while the prophets and teachers were worshiping and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them" (Acts 13:2). After more prayer, they laid hands on the two and sent them off (Acts 13:3). Later the two went back through the towns where they had preached, "strengthening the souls of the disciples" and appointing elders (Acts 14:21-23).
What it can look like
- You'd rather start a Bible study than join one.
- Starting something new energizes you more than keeping something running.
- You can live with uncertainty and slow early results.
- Once a work is running, you want to hand it off and help others grow into it.
What to watch for
- Working alone. Paul greets many fellow workers by name (Romans 16:3-16).
- Claiming an apostle's authority, which belonged to the Twelve and Paul.
- Leaving behind half-finished projects and tired volunteers.
- Looking down on people who keep existing ministries going. Paul planted, Apollos watered, and God gave the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6).
Ways to serve with it
- Talk with your pastor about a need in your community that no ministry is meeting.
- Join a church plant or mission team for a season before trying to lead one.
- Start one small thing, like a Bible study in your apartment building.
- Train someone from the start so the work can go on without you.
Related gifts
Holy habits that fit this gift
These practices can help you steward this gift over time.
Frequently asked questions
Is apostleship still a spiritual gift today?
Most Christians agree the Twelve and Paul held a unique office that no one holds today (Ephesians 2:20). Many also believe God still sends people out to start new work, which is what we mean by pioneering.
What's the difference between pioneering and evangelism?
Evangelism shares the good news and invites a response. Pioneering starts new work, which usually includes evangelism along with gathering believers and raising up leaders. Many pioneers have both gifts.
How do I know if I have the gift of pioneering?
Talk with your church's leaders about the place or people you can't stop thinking about. In Acts, the church confirmed the call before it sent anyone out (Acts 13:2-3).
Take the free Spiritual Gifts Test
Answer questions about how you like to serve, and see which gifts your answers point toward. It takes about 6-7 minutes, and no email is required.
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