THE PAULINE CONCEPT OF CHARISM IN 1 CHORINTHIANS 12-14 AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR CHURCH DEVELOPMENT IN TIVLAND

The exercise of charismatic gifts is for the general growth and good of the church. This fact was expressed by Paul in his First letter to the Corinthians (ICor 12:8-10). But there have been some abuses in the administration of the various gifts by individuals contrary to the genuine motive of the spiritual gifts which is for church growth and service. Pentecostalism and charismatic movements stress the experience of the spirit and the practice of spiritual gifts. Which is why the study of 1 Corinthians 12-14 shall be used as a guiding text in the understanding of charisms (spiritual gifts). The methodology adopted in this study is the syncronic method of doing exegesis. In so doing we shall interpret the understanding of St Paul on the issue of Charisms in ICorinthian 12-14 for understanding the issue of Charisms in today’s Christianity. The Pentecostal and Charismatic renewal among Christians have helped in the expression of faith in Christianity through genuine expressions of indigenous African culture, contributing to the enrichment of religion in Tivland. The findings show that manifestations and exercise of spiritual gifts: healing, miracle, deliverance and counselling have helped in the growth of Christianity. The researcher is of the opinion that any exercise of charisms should be done in consonance with the guidelines laid down by the authorities of the churchThe Pauline Concept and Church development in Tivlan