What’s the difference between a talent and a spiritual gift?

Frankie says being very good at something doesn’t automatically make it a spiritual gift. Sometimes the two overlap and sometimes they don’t. A spiritual gift is given by the Holy Spirit to build up other people and the kingdom, and he encourages listeners to look for life change through the Spirit, not just a polished performance that feels good.

What is the story of Barnabas and Ananias about?

Both sold land and brought money to the apostles (Acts 4:32-5:11), but Ananias held part back and lied about it. Frankie argues it wasn’t a money issue but a heart issue: Barnabas gave to help others, while Ananias likely wanted the praise. He admits that motive is his own guess, and connects it to Jesus praising the widow’s small offering in Mark 12.

Is this a message about tithing?

No, Frankie says directly that it isn’t. He separates spiritual disciplines like tithing, which are about personal spiritual growth and trusting God for our security, from spiritual gifts, which are about kingdom growth and benefiting others. He describes the gift of giving as going above and beyond in generosity, as Barnabas did.

What should I do, and not do, with my spiritual gift?

Frankie gives three don’ts: don’t ignore your gifts, don’t covet other people’s, and don’t use them for personal gain or admiration. The dos are to be brave through your fear, to celebrate and encourage other people’s gifts, and to give Jesus the credit for the outcomes. He calls the third don’t the most dangerous, pointing to Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:21-23.

How do I find out what my spiritual gift is?

Frankie’s steps are to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, since he says the Holy Spirit is who gives spiritual gifts, then to learn how you’re gifted, for example through a spiritual gifts assessment, and then to get in the game. He says gifts are developed by using them, and that knowing your gift means little if you keep it to yourself.