In the New Testament we read that signs were used to confirm the Word (Mark 16:20).  We also learn that in order to fully equip the Church prior to receiving a complete revelation of the will of God, miraculous gifts were given to men (Acts 8:6, 1 Cor. 2:13). Some were said to be set in the Church (1 Cor. 12:29; Eph. 4:11). In Ephesians 4:12-13 we learn that the purpose of this was, “…for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; til we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure and stature and fullness of Christ.” These signs and gifts ceased with the complete revelation of the Scripture (1 Cor. 13:9-10).  The ability to bestow the gifts ceased with the death of the last Apostle (Acts 8:14-15).  The Church is fully equipped.

It is interesting to note that many of the gifts miraculously given to men during the early days of the Church are now commands for Christians, i.e. ministering, teaching, exhorting, giving, mercy (Rom. 12:7-8). But how are we equipped today?  Through the Word which completes and thoroughly furnishes us for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

How God Saves – – Keep the Faith