The most frequent Greek word used for the concept of spiritual gifts is charisma ("grace," "favor," plural, charismata), from which the word "charismatic" is derived. A charisma is an embodiment of grace producing a gracious gift (i.e., one freely given). In the broad sense, the concept of spiritual gifts includes a variety of free gifts given by God ranging from spiritual salvation (Romans 6:23) and temporal rescue (2 Corinthians 1:11) to celibacy and marriage (1 Corinthians 7:7). In the special or technical usage, spiritual gifts are the particular endowments given by the Spirit to all believers that enable them to serve others for the building up of the church (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7; 1 Peter 4:10).

This topic is from the Lockman Foundation.