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Word of Knowledge

Definition:

A supernatural ability the Holy Spirit gives certain people to receive and share specific knowledge about a given issue or circumstance for the purpose of providing understanding, counsel, confirmation, or conviction. Reveals God's understanding about a particular life situation. Can be found in inspired preaching, teaching and words of personal revelation.

Biblical References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:8
• Acts 5:1-11
• Acts 10:17-23
• 2 Corinthians 2:2-3

Gift Characteristics:

Communicated knowledge.... Scripture defines this gift as logos gnosis, which is knowledge that is communicated. Like other spiritual gifts, a word of knowledge is given for the common good of the church. It is not directly for the benefit of one receiving the revelation, but for the edification of the person(s) to whom the words are being directed.

A temporary ability.... A word of knowledge is momentary and limited understanding into a given situation. It provides the recipient with just enough revelation to deal with the need at hand. The person who exhibits this gift does not necessarily have any insight into other issues or problems that are occurring. This gift does not permanently reside in the individual demonstrating it, giving them special, ongoing knowledge into life situations.

The product of divine revelation.... A word of knowledge is not the result of natural abilities, personal Bible study, the pursuit of truth, life experiences, or any other human endeavor. It is a supernatural manifestation of the Holy Spirit that demonstrates God's power and presence in a given situation. The knowledge that is received is the result of divine intervention, not personal effort.

Differs from the gift of wisdom.... While wisdom and knowledge are closely related, Paul makes a clear distinction that they are separate two gifts (1 Cor. 12:8). The major difference is that knowledge is related to understanding truth, while wisdom relates to correctly applying truth. Knowledge tells us what, who, why, when, and where. But wisdom explains why to, where to, when to, how to, and what to do in a given circumstance.

Differs from personal revelation.... Because the word of knowledge is a charisma, it is essential that the person receiving the revelation share it with others in the body of Christ. Personal revelation, on the other hand, does not always require us to share it. In 2 Corinthians 12 Paul describes a vision he had in the Lord, and in verse 4 he tells of hearing inexpressible things that he is not permitted to repeat to anyone. Also in John 4:31-34 Jesus responds to a request to eat some food by saying he has bread they know nothing about. This bread is most likely personal revelation because he says his food is to complete God's work, something that can only be done by having direct knowledge of His will.