Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0092AB recorded on September 23, 1979 teaching from Romans 12:3-9 – Gifts of the Spirit #3.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens presents a theological framework for understanding spiritual empowerment through a three-tiered system of motivation, ministry, and manifestation. He proposes that every Christian possesses exactly one of seven foundational motivational gifts—prophecy, serving, teaching, exhortation, giving, ruling, or showing mercy—which acts as the internal drive for their spiritual life. These internal motives are then expressed through various optional ministries, which in turn result in supernatural manifestations of the Holy Spirit. To help believers identify their specific calling, Stevens provides a detailed breakdown of the scriptural requirements for each gift alongside the specific character dangers and negative tendencies that often accompany them. Ultimately, Pastor Stevens presents a practical guide for self-examination, urging listeners to identify their unique spiritual purpose and exercise it diligently to foster a healthy, functioning church body.