The question shouldn’t be left to Bible scholars or serious theologians. It has important practical and personal ramifications for the whole church of Jesus Christ.
For example, in Romans 12:6 Paul writes, “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us us them . . . ” If spiritual gifts have ceased, then the “user” has no gift-grace to offer and the recipient none to receive. We might say grace in the form of gifts is scarcer now than in the first century.
Again in 1 Corinthians 12:7, Paul writes, “To each person is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” And in 1 Corinthians 14:12, Paul admonishes the church, ” . . . since you are eager for the manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.” If these manifestations have ceased, the Body of Christ no longer receives “good” from them and is left without a means of upbuilding available earlier.
Recently I discovered an excellent study by Dr. Sam Storms. He introduces himself as “an Amillennial, Calvinistic, charismatic, credo-baptistic, complementarian, Christian Hedonist.” (If you draw a blank at any of those terms, don’t worry. Just remember we’re saved by grace through faith!) Since 2008, Sam has been Lead Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Bridgeway Church in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Below are links to the study. If you have any interest in this subject or especially if you’re trying to decide on which side of the line you should stand, I heartily recommend this to you.
http://www.samstorms.com/all-articles/post/are-miraculous-gifts-for-today—part-i
http://www.samstorms.com/all-articles/post/are-miraculous-gifts-for-today—part-ii
What do you think? Just then or now too? I’d love to hear from you!
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