1 Corinthians 12:28, Governments

1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

The word “governments” literally describes the skill with which a pilot guides a ship. He appreciate the terrain of nagivation for safety, has a team of dedicated crew to steer the set course. He manages the well-being of the entire ship. This word is used figuratively here of leadership skill administrative ability, gift of leadership, managerial skill (1Cor. 12.28). [Friberg]

An Old Testament is David whom God chose to lead the people of Israel – Psalm 78:70-72 He chose David also his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds: From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands. 

A New Testament example will be the leaders of the church in Ephesus entrusted with the oversight of the church by the Apostle Paul – Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. Also, in 1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. Amen.