It's funny how different things are here. We read all 112 questions out loud, rephrased each one, and gave examples. I was filling out the form for my illiterate friend, and for each question, I had to repeat the "definitions" for numbers 0-3. People still had a fair amount of trouble with the test, and it was pretty exhausting. The first half took 1.5 hrs. We kind of rushed through the second half-- maybe 45 min.

I read recently that spiritual gifts tests can be inaccurate because a mature follower of Christ shows strengths in areas that aren't necessarily his or her gifting. I think we ended up on the other side-- these less mature (but earnest!) followers of Christ don't yet show strengths in the areas that I expect could be their gifting. 

Most people landed on the same three gifts-- faith, mercy, and intercession. I think it's because those questions were easier. Maybe also strong cultural values or at least values of this particular subculture. 

So what does it mean if this spiritual gifts test didn't yield accurate results? I don't mind so much. The goal of this exercise was to encourage people to start serving God and others. This week in our discipleship course we're going to talk about how to exercise these gifts. As they do that, I think they'll begin to see where they're stronger and weaker. Regardless, they'll have a chance to practice obedience to God in service. I know they will be blessed in the process. 

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