The Dangers Of Abusing Spiritual Gifts

THE DANGERS OF ABUSING SPIRITUAL GIFTS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 8:18-21

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Matthew 7:21-23, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Romans 11:29, Jude 1:11

INTRODUCTION:

Spiritual gifts are divine endowments given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the edification of the Church and the glory of God. These gifts include prophecy, healing, discernment, tongues, wisdom, and more. However, when these gifts are misused—whether for personal gain, manipulation, or self-promotion—they become dangerous tools that grieve the Holy Spirit and mislead the people of God.

In Acts 8, Simon the sorcerer offered money to receive the power to impart the Holy Spirit. Peter rebuked him sharply, exposing his wrong motive and heart condition. This encounter reminds us that spiritual gifts are not to be bought, sold, or used to elevate self. Rather, they are holy instruments meant for service in humility.

This message serves as a timely warning in an age where spiritual gifts are sometimes commercialised or used to manipulate others. It calls us back to sincerity, reverence, and the true purpose of the gifts—to glorify God and bless His people.

1. ABUSING SPIRITUAL GIFTS INVITES DIVINE JUDGEMENT

When individuals attempt to use God's gifts for selfish purposes, they place themselves under divine scrutiny.

a) God searches the motives of the heart (Acts 8:21):

Peter told Simon, “Your heart is not right before God,” because his desire was impure and selfish.

b) Using gifts to manipulate or impress brings condemnation (Matthew 7:22–23):

Jesus warned that many who perform miracles in His name but lack relationship with Him will be rejected.

c) Gifts without fruit are dangerous (1 Corinthians 13:1–2):

Spiritual gifts must be exercised with love and humility; without these, they become empty and harmful.

d) God will not tolerate irreverent handling of holy things (Leviticus 10:1–2):

Nadab and Abihu offered strange fire and were judged immediately—serving as a warning for today.

Biblical Example: Simon the Sorcerer’s attempt to buy the gift of the Spirit shows that wrong motives corrupt spiritual ministry (Acts 8:18–23).

2. SPIRITUAL GIFTS ARE FOR MINISTRY, NOT FOR SHOWMANSHIP

Gifts are not given for popularity or performance, but for service and the strengthening of the Church.

a) The Holy Spirit distributes gifts for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7):

Every spiritual gift is intended to benefit others, not to build the reputation of the individual.

b) Ministry becomes carnal when gifts are used for self-glory (3 John 9):

Like Diotrephes, some seek preeminence rather than service, thereby corrupting their calling.

c) True greatness is found in serving others (Matthew 23:11):

Jesus taught that those who desire to be great must become servants, not celebrities.

d) Spiritual maturity is proven by love and service, not merely gifts (Galatians 5:22–23):

The fruit of the Spirit is the true measure of spiritual maturity.

Biblical Example: Jesus, though full of power, always used His gifts to serve others selflessly (Matthew 14:14).

3. MANIPULATING OTHERS WITH SPIRITUAL GIFTS IS A FORM OF WITCHCRAFT

Twisting spiritual gifts for control or influence aligns with the spirit of witchcraft, which is rebellion against God.

a) Spiritual manipulation is rebellion (1 Samuel 15:23):

Rebellion is likened to witchcraft; using spiritual power to control people violates God's will.

b) False prophets use gifts to deceive (Matthew 24:24):

Even false prophets can perform signs to lead people astray, which is why discernment is essential.

c) Misused gifts open doors to demonic influence (Jude 1:11):

Those who follow the way of Balaam for gain are spiritually compromised.

d) God exposes those who exploit spiritual authority (Ezekiel 13:6–9):

False visions and deceptive utterances will be judged by God.

Biblical Example: Balaam tried to use prophetic power for monetary gain and led Israel into sin (Numbers 22–25).

4. GOD’S GIFTS ARE IRREVOCABLE BUT ACCOUNTABILITY REMAINS

Though the gifts and calling of God are without repentance, misuse of them leads to personal downfall.

a) Gifts can operate even when the vessel is wrong (Romans 11:29):

This does not mean God approves of the vessel’s lifestyle or motives.

b) Character sustains what charisma begins (Proverbs 10:9):

Integrity must uphold the exercise of spiritual power, or the fall will be great.

c) We will give account of how we used our gifts (Romans 14:12):

Every believer must give an account of their stewardship, including the use of spiritual gifts.

d) Gifts should be stirred and used in reverent fear (2 Timothy 1:6–7):

They must be used in faith, love, and humility—not in pride or fear.

Biblical Example: Samson continued to operate in strength even while compromising, but ultimately suffered because he misused his gift (Judges 16:1–21).

CONCLUSION:

Spiritual gifts are holy and precious tools from God. When they are abused, they bring dishonour, judgment, and destruction. As believers, we must ensure that our motives are pure and that our use of spiritual gifts aligns with the heart of God—serving others in humility, love, and truth. Let us never trade the eternal value of our calling for temporary recognition or gain. Remember, it’s not about being seen—it’s about being faithful.