There has been considerable controversy over whether or not some of the so-called gifts as recorded in the New Testament still exist in the church. These sign gifts, which include apostleship, prophecy, healing, miracles, speaking in tongues, and the interpretation of tongues, are said to have ceased with the death of the apostles.

Confirm the Word

These gifts as the argument goes, were temporary; to help establish the church and to confirm the Word before written revelation - the Bible - was complete. These signs also were given to authenticate the gospel message. Once the Bible was finished, there was no more need for these miraculous gifts. This being the case, anyone who exercises these gifts today is not doing it by the power of God.

Still Available?

Are these gifts still to be used by the church or has God withdrawn them? The main arguments for the cessation of spiritual gifts can be broken down into six basic categories. They include:

1. THE PURPOSE of the GIFTS

2. THE PLAN OF GOD in HISTORY

3. THE EVIDENCE FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

4. EVIDENCE FROM THE BOOK OF ACTS

5. CHURCH HISTORY

6. EXPERIENCE

We will examine each of these arguments individually and then give a response to them.