The manifestation of the spirit is given to each one for a beneficial purpose.—1 Cor. 12:7.
Back in the first century when true Christians were anointed by holy spirit to become sons of God and thus Christ’s brothers, some received an additional, special operation of the spirit. They received miraculous gifts of the spirit. Some manifestations of such gifts were special speech of wisdom or knowledge, the power to heal or to prophesy, or even the ability to make utterances in tongues unknown to them. (1 Cor. 12:4-11) Regarding speaking in a tongue, Paul said: “I will sing praise with the gift of the spirit, but I will also sing praise with my mind.” (1 Cor. 14:15) He saw the importance of others’ understanding his words and thus being instructed. He urged those who had the gifts of the spirit: “Seek to abound in them for the upbuilding of the congregation,” meaning the local congregation where they manifested the gift.—1 Cor. 14:4, 5, 12, 23. w07 4/15 1:15, 16
