by Timothy W. Burnett
1Corinthians 12:7-10 lists nine different ways that God�s saints can profit from the manifestation of holy spirit. The word another is used seven times translated from the Greek word �allos,� and two times translated from the Greek word �heteros.�
We might think, �Well�what difference does it make?� It makes a big difference when it comes to understanding the scripture more clearly, even if the improved clarity is only slight.
The Greek word allos meant �another of the same kind, and the Greek word heteros meant �another of a different kind.� Let�s connect each word with the verses.
The word allos was used with word of wisdom and knowledge, gifts of healing, working of miracles, discerning of spirits and interpretation of tongues. The word heteros was used with faith and speaking in tongues. Why was the word heteros used with faith and speaking in tongues, and not allos?
One clue rests in its use with speaking in tongues. Speaking in tongues began to be available on the day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2:4, and continues to be available for all of God�s saints to this day and until Christ returns for the rapture (see 1Thessalonians 4:13-18). There is no mention of it in the book of Revelations which mostly describes the period of time after the rapture.
With this in mind, it can be seen why speaking in tongues was used with the word heteros (another of a different kind). It would have been different from what was available prior to the age of the grace of God, that being the Old Testament Law period which lasted until the same day of Pentecost recorded in Acts 2:1-4. During the Old Testament period it was not available to speak in tongues, but God changed the conditions and it became available.
What was different about faith? There are many examples of Old Testament people acting with faith on God�s promises. Hebrews chapter 11 is full of examples.
As used in the New Testament epistles, the word �faith� is used in basically two different contexts. One is about saints believing to see God�s will be done in their lives. Yet Romans 3:21-22 reveals another use, �But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets. Even the righteousness of God which is by the faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe.�
When people are filled with holy spirit, they have the authority to walk by the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ as he currently sits on the right hand of God�s throne.
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