Biblical Spiritual Gift of administration

Administrators also function as design architects, resourcing their people with the tools needed to accomplish their work. They research equipment and materials necessary for ministry tasks, understanding that wrong tools can damage processes, products, and people. They work hard at making it easy for others to work effectively.

Biblical Foundation and Purpose

The gift of administration serves the broader purpose of building up the church body. As stated in 1 Corinthians 14:12, spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up the church, not for personal ego building but to serve the Lord with greater power and effectiveness. The Holy Spirit distributes these gifts “just as he determines,” according to 1 Corinthians 12:11.

Many pastors of large churches possess the gift of administration, and their ability to lead and inspire others to lead contributes significantly to church growth. However, those with this gift must remember that the church is not a for-profit business but a ministry that must operate through the Holy Spirit’s power to accomplish God’s purposes.

Spiritual Dimensions

Unlike secular administration, the spiritual gift of administration is empowered by the Spirit himself. Those with this gift should not merely administrate to get things done but should work “by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ”. Spirit-filled administration minimizes the effects of sin on the good things believers want to accomplish together.

The gift also involves serving others rather than being served. Through administration, gifted individuals serve both those whose organizational vision they support and those they lead3. They work by the principle of making time and taking work rather than taking time and making work.

The spiritual gift of administration serves as a vital foundation for church health and effective ministry. Through this gift, churches can coordinate their various ministries, utilize resources wisely, and create environments where other spiritual gifts can flourish for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

References

GotQuestions.org articles on the spiritual gift of administration and church leadership
1 Corinthians 12:28 and Romans 12:8 from the English Standard Version
The Gospel Coalition resources on administration as spiritual service
Biblical passages on spiritual gifts and their purpose in the church body