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1 Corinthians 12:1
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A.W. Tozer
Stephen Kaung
William MacDonald
Brian Brodersen
Paris ReidheadStephen KaungSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now concerning spiritual gifts - This was a subject about which they appear to have written to the apostle, and concerning which there were probably some contentions among them. The words περι των πνευματικων may as well be translated concerning spiritual persons, as spiritual gifts; and indeed the former agrees much better with the context. I would not have you ignorant - I wish you fully to know whence all such gifts come, and for what end they are given, that each person may serve the Church in the capacity in which God has placed him, that there may be no misunderstandings and no schism in the body.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now concerning spiritual gifts,.... Though the word "gifts" is not in the original text, it is rightly supplied by our translators, as it is in the Arabic version: for the apostle does not mean spiritual graces, nor spiritual words, or doctrines, nor spiritual meats and drinks, nor spiritual men, each of which are mentioned before in this epistle; though the latter is thought by some to be here intended, and that the apostle's view is to show the difference between those that are spiritual, and those that are not; but as spiritual gifts are the subject of the apostle's discourse throughout this chapter, and the two following, they seem very manifestly to be designed here. The apostle having gone through various heads of discourse, which he either of himself, or at the request of others, wrote upon, proceeds to a new subject, that of spiritual gifts, which he seems to have been desired to give his thoughts upon, and advice about; since there were some in this church who were discouraged, because they had not the gifts which some had; and others that had them were elated and puffed up with them, and treated those below them with neglect and contempt; and with a view to both these the apostle writes as follows, brethren, I would not have you ignorant; neither of the author of these gifts, who is the Spirit of God, who dispenses them according to his sovereign will and pleasure, and not according to the deserts of men, and are not acquired by the industry, or through the merit of any, but are his free grace gifts; nor of the nature of them, for there are differences and diversities of them, some have one, and some another, but no man all; nor of the design and use of them, which is the edification of the whole body; and every gift, though ever so mean, is of service; and therefore as, on the one hand, none ought to be discouraged, so, on the other hand, none should be lifted up with pride, or give way to a boasting spirit.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle comes now to treat of spiritual gifts, which abounded in the church of Corinth, but were greatly abused. What these gifts were is at large told us in the body of the chapter; namely, extraordinary offices and powers, bestowed on ministers and Christians in the first ages, for conviction of unbelievers, and propagation of the gospel. Gifts and graces, charismata and charis, greatly differ. Both indeed were freely given of God. But where grace is given it is for the salvation of those who have it. Gifts are bestowed for the advantage and salvation of others. And there may be great gifts where there is not a dram of grace, but persons possessed of them are utterly out of the divine favour. They are great instances of divine benignity to men, but do not by themselves prove those who have them to be the objects of divine complacency. This church was rich in gifts, but there were many things scandalously out of order in it. Now concerning these spiritual gifts, that is, the extraordinary powers they had received from the Spirit, I. The apostle tells them he would not have them ignorant either of their original or use. They came from God, and were to be used for him. It would lead them far astray if they were ignorant of one or the other of these. Note, Right information is of great use as to all religious practice. It is wretched work which gifted men make who either do not know or do not advert to the nature and right use of the gifts with which they are endowed. II. He puts them in the mind of the sad state out of which they had been recovered: You were Gentiles, carried away to dumb idols, even as you were led, Co1 12:2. While they were so, they could have no pretensions to be spiritual men, nor to have spiritual gifts. While they were under the conduct of the spirit of Gentilism, they could not be influenced by the Spirit of Christ. If they well understood their former condition, they could not but know that all true spiritual gifts were from God. Now concerning this observe, 1. Their former character: they were Gentiles. Not God's peculiar people, but of the nations whom he had in a manner abandoned. The Jews were, before, his chosen people, distinguished from the rest of the world by his favour. To them the knowledge and worship of the true God were in a manner confined. The rest of the world were strangers to the covenant of promise, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and in a manner without God, Eph 2:12. Such Gentiles were the body of the Corinthians, before their conversion to Christianity. What a change was here! Christian Corinthians were once Gentiles. Note, It is of great use to the Christian, and a proper consideration to stir him up both to duty and thankfulness, to think what once he was: You were Gentiles. 2. The conduct they were under: Carried away to these dumb idols, even as you were led. They were hurried upon the grossest idolatry, the worship even of stocks and stones, through the force of a vain imagination, and the fraud of their priests practising on their ignorance, for, whatever were the sentiments of their philosophers, this was the practice of the herd. The body of the people paid their homage and worship to dumb idols, that had ears but could not hear, and mouths but could not speak, Psa 115:5, Psa 115:6. Miserable abjectness of mind! And those who despised these gross conceptions of the vulgar yet countenanced them by their practice. O dismal state of Gentilism! Could the Spirit of God be among such stupid idolators, or they be influenced by it? How did the prince of this world triumph in the blindness of mankind! How thick a mist had he cast over their minds! III. He shows them how they might discern those gifts that were from the Spirit of God, true spiritual gifts: No man, speaking by the Spirit, calls Jesus accursed. Thus did both Jews and Gentiles: they blasphemed him as an impostor, and execrated his name, and deemed it abominable. And yet many Jews, who were exorcists and magicians, went about, pretending to work wonders by the Spirit of God (vid. Lightfoot's Horae in loc.), and many among the Gentiles pretended to inspiration. Now the apostle tells them none could act under the influence, nor by the power, of the Spirit of God, who disowned and blasphemed Christ: for the Spirit of God bore uncontrollable witness to Christ by prophecy, miracles, his resurrection from the dead, the success of his doctrine among men, and its effect upon them; and could never so far contradict itself as to declare him accursed. And on the other hand no man could say Jesus was the Lord (that is, live by this faith, and work miracles to prove it), but it must be by the Holy Ghost. To own this truth before men, and maintain it to the death, and live under the influence of it, could not be done without the sanctification of the Holy Ghost. No man can call Christ Lord, with a believing subjection to him and dependence upon him, unless that faith be wrought by the Holy Ghost. No man can confess this truth in the day of trial but by the Holy Ghost animating and encouraging him. Note, We have as necessary a dependence on the Spirit's operation and influence for our sanctification and perseverance as on the mediation of Christ for our reconciliation and acceptance with God: and no man could confirm this truth with a miracle but by the Holy Ghost. No evil spirit would lend assistance, if it were in his power, to spread a doctrine and religion so ruinous to the devil's kingdom. The substance of what the apostle asserts and argues here is that whatever pretences there were to inspiration or miracles, among those who were enemies to Christianity, they could not be from the Spirit of God; but no man could believe this with his heart, nor prove with a miracle that Jesus was Christ, but by the Holy Ghost: so that the extraordinary operations and powers among them did all proceed from the Spirit of God. He adds, IV. These spiritual gifts, though proceeding from the same Spirit, are yet various. They have one author and original, but are themselves of various kinds. A free cause may produce variety of effects; and the same giver may bestow various gifts, Co1 12:4. There are diversities of gifts, such as revelations, tongues, prophecy, interpretations of tongues; but the same Spirit. There are differences of administrations, or different offices, and officers to discharge them, different ordinances and institutions (see Co1 12:28-30), but the same Lord, who appointed all, Co1 12:6. There are diversities of operations, or miraculous powers, called energēmata dunameōn (Co1 12:10), as here energēmata, but it is the same God that worketh all in all. There are various gifts, administrations, and operations, but all proceed from one God, one Lord, one Spirit; that is, from Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, the spring and origin of all spiritual blessings and bequests: all issue from the same fountain; all have the same author. However different they may be in themselves, in this they agree; all are from God. And several of the kinds are here specified, Co1 12:8-10. Several persons had their several gifts, some one, some another, all from and by the same Spirit. To one was given the word of wisdom; that is, say some, a knowledge of the mysteries of the gospel, and ability to explain them, an exact understanding of the design, nature, and doctrines, of the Christian religion. Others say an uttering of grave sentences, like Solomon's proverbs. Some confine this word of wisdom to the revelations made to and by the apostles. - To another the word of knowledge, by the same Spirit; that is, say some, the knowledge of mysteries (Co1 2:13): wrapped up in the prophecies, types, and histories of the Old Testament: say others, a skill and readiness to give advice and counsel in perplexed cases. - To another faith, by the same Spirit; that is, the faith of miracles, or a faith in the divine power and promise, whereby they were enabled to trust God in any emergency, and go on in the way of their duty, and own and profess the truths of Christ, whatever was the difficulty or danger. - To another the gift of healing, by the same Spirit; that is, healing the sick, either by laying on of hands, or anointing with oil, or with a bare word. - To another the working of miracles; the efficacies of powers, energēmata dunameōn, such as raising the dead, restoring the blind to sight, giving speech to the dumb, hearing to the deaf, and the use of limbs to the lame. - To another prophecy, that is, ability to foretel future events, which is the more usual sense of prophecy; or to explain scripture by a peculiar gift of the Spirit. See Co1 14:24. - To another the discerning of Spirits, power to distinguish between true and false prophets, or to discern the real and internal qualifications of any person for an office, or to discover the inward workings of the mind by the Holy Ghost, as Peter did those of Ananias, Act 5:3. - To another divers kinds of tongues, or ability to speak languages by inspiration. - To another the interpretation of tongues, or ability to render foreign languages readily and properly into their own. With such variety of spiritual gifts were the first ministers and churches blessed. V. The end for which these gifts were bestowed: The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal, Co1 12:7. The Spirit was manifested by the exercise of these gifts; his influence and interest appeared in them. But they were not distributed for the mere honour and advantage of those who had them, but for the benefit of the church, to edify the body, and spread and advance the gospel. Note, Whatever gifts God confers on any man, he confers them that he may do good with them, whether they be common or spiritual. The outward gifts of his bounty are to be improved for his glory, and employed in doing good to others. No man has them merely for himself. They are a trust put into his hands, to profit withal; and the more he profits others with them, the more abundantly will they turn to his account in the end, Phi 4:17. Spiritual gifts are bestowed, that men may with them profit the church and promote Christianity. They are not given for show, but for service; not for pomp and ostentation, but for edification; not to magnify those that have them, but to edify others. VI. The measure and proportion in which they are given: All these worketh one and the same Spirit, dividing to every man as he will. It is according to the sovereign pleasure of the donor. What more free than a gift? And shall not the Spirit of God do what he will with his own? May he not give to what persons he pleases, and in what proportion he pleases; one gift to one man, and another to another; to one more, and another fewer, as he thinks fit? Is he not the best judge how his own purpose shall be served, and his own donatives bestowed? It is not as men will, nor as they may think fit, but as the Spirit pleases. Note, The Holy Ghost is a divine person. He works divine effects and divides divine gifts a he will, by his own power, and according to his own pleasure, without dependence or control. But though he distributes these gifts freely and uncontrollably, they are intended by him, not for private honour and advantage, but for public benefit, for the edification of the body, the church.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:1–14:40 The church at Corinth had placed too much emphasis on the gift of tongues (see 14:1-25, 27; cp. the lists in 12:8-10, 28, where Paul places tongues last), so Paul gives corrective advice regarding the value and use of spiritual gifts. 12:1-3 Paul introduces the topic, emphasizing the active presence of the Holy Spirit in believers.
1 Corinthians 12:1
Spiritual Gifts
1Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed.2You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.
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Concerning Spiritual Gifts: Foundation Facts About Spiritual Gifts
By Warren Wiersbe12K36:48Spiritual Gifts1CO 12:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of spiritual gifts as discussed in 1 Corinthians 12, 13, and 14. He emphasizes that if spiritual gifts were not important, Paul would not have dedicated three chapters to discussing them. The speaker also highlights the need to study the Word of God thoroughly and not to overlook any part of it. He mentions the significance of spiritual gifts being controlled by the Word of God and the fact that they come in various forms.
(Spiritual Gifts): Spiritual Gifts 1
By A.W. Tozer6.1K36:45Spiritual Gifts1CO 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding and following the will of God in our lives. He believes that God wants to do something new for the church and for each individual. The speaker also highlights the significance of belonging to something that is lasting and valuable, rather than being part of man-made societies. He encourages the audience to train themselves in godliness, which is more beneficial than physical exercise. The sermon concludes with a reminder that duty and privilege go hand in hand, and that it is both a duty and a privilege to pray for the church and to preach to the congregation.
The Body of Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.8K00:00Body Of Christ1CO 12:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding the concept of the body of Christ. They explain that the body is made up of many members, each with their own unique functions. The speaker emphasizes that the body is not about uniformity, but rather about unity and cooperation among its members. They highlight the need for every member to recognize their dependence on one another and work together to fulfill their individual functions for the greater purpose of the body. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the listeners to have a deeper understanding and experience of being members of the body of Christ.
Studies in 1 Corinthians-10 1 Cor 12
By William MacDonald1.4K53:03MAT 6:331CO 12:11CO 12:4In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of using spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church and the glory of God. They express concern about the commercialization of ministry and emphasize the need for faithful servants who prioritize building up the people of God and leading sinners to salvation. The speaker mentions that there are various lists of spiritual gifts in the Bible, but they are not exhaustive. They also highlight the importance of unity within the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role and should care for one another.
A Passion for the Gifts of the Spirit
By Brian Brodersen1.3K42:201CO 12:1
This sermon emphasizes the importance of the gifts of the Spirit for ministry in the 21st century, highlighting the need for supernatural manifestations of the Spirit's power. It calls for a shift towards embracing and actively seeking the gifts of the Spirit, such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healings, miracles, prophecy, tongues, and interpretation of tongues. The speaker urges for a revival of the supernatural in churches, encouraging leaders to pray, teach, and provide opportunities for the congregation to experience and operate in the gifts of the Spirit.
Supernatural Gifts - Part 2
By Paris Reidhead1.1K56:05Supernatural Gifts1CO 12:1In this sermon, the preacher shares a powerful story about a missionary named Tommy who went to a village of cannibals. Despite the danger, Tommy obeyed God's call and went to the village, where he miraculously stopped the cannibals in their tracks by raising his hand and proclaiming the name of Jesus. Tommy then shared the gospel with them through song, leading to a great revival in the village. The sermon also discusses the gifts of the Spirit, including the gift of faith, healing, miracles, and prophecy, emphasizing the importance of these gifts in the church.
The Manifestation of the Holy Spirit ( 2 of 2 )
By Stephen Kaung9191:46:56ROM 12:1ROM 12:61CO 12:11CO 12:3EPH 4:7EPH 4:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Moses and how he initially relied on his natural talents and education to serve God. However, God rejected Moses' efforts and sent him into the wilderness for 40 years to relearn and grow spiritually. The preacher emphasizes the importance of personal growth and surrendering oneself to God in order to discover and utilize one's spiritual gifts. He also highlights the need to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God, as stated in Romans 12. The sermon concludes with the reminder that our natural talents can only be used by God after they have gone through death and resurrection by Him.
Corinthians - Stop Thinking Like Children
By J. Glyn Owen85048:33Carnality1CO 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of speaking in a way that people can understand and benefit from. He uses the example of speaking in tongues, stating that even though it may sound impressive, it does not feed the soul or touch the minds of the listeners. The speaker then appeals to the Corinthians to mature in their thinking and not to think like children. He warns against the excessive use of glossolalia, as it can hinder the intellectual side of one's Christian life and urges the Corinthians to use their minds in their faith.
The Church - the Body - Gifts of the Spirit
By G.W. North1362:02:09ChurchMRK 16:151CO 12:1REV 1:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of preaching the Gospel to every creature, as commanded by Jesus in Mark 16. He highlights the signs that will follow those who believe, including casting out devils and speaking with new tongues. The preacher then shifts focus to the concept of the body of Christ, emphasizing the need for unity and recognizing the value of each member. He encourages humility and openness to allow God to work through individuals. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the congregation to be willing and ready for God to move in their lives.
Anatomy of a Prophetic Word
By David Ravenhill721:19:41Prophetic MinistryWord and Spirit BalanceProphetic Word2KI 20:1ISA 46:7JER 18:4HAB 2:3LUK 8:41CO 12:11CO 13:91TH 5:21HEB 4:21PE 1:10David Ravenhill discusses the importance of understanding the prophetic word, emphasizing the need for a balance between the Word of God and the Spirit of God. He highlights the complexity of prophetic ministry, explaining that revelation, interpretation, and application are crucial components of a prophetic word. Ravenhill warns against the extremes of gullibility and skepticism, urging believers to examine prophetic utterances carefully. He also stresses the significance of motivation and the conditions that can affect the fulfillment of prophetic words, encouraging the church to embrace the prophetic as a vital tool for edification and guidance.
Word & Spirit Conference, Session 2, Part 1
By David Ravenhill3446:34Prophetic MinistryChristian LifeUnity of Word and SpiritJOL 2:28MAT 22:29JHN 4:24ACT 2:171CO 12:1EPH 4:111TH 5:202TI 3:16HEB 4:12REV 19:10David Ravenhill emphasizes the essential unity of the Word and the Spirit in his sermon, highlighting the dangers of separating the two. He reflects on the historical divide between evangelicals and Pentecostals, urging a return to a balanced understanding that both the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit are vital for spiritual growth. Ravenhill shares personal experiences with prophetic words, illustrating their significance and the need for proper interpretation and application. He encourages the congregation to earnestly desire spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, as a means of edification for the church. Ultimately, he calls for a fresh appreciation of both the Word of God and the Spirit of God, as they work together to fulfill God's purposes.
When Experience Meets Scripture
By Shane Idleman1857:34Holy SpiritSpiritual Gifts1CO 12:1Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of aligning personal experiences with Scripture, particularly regarding the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He addresses the division within the church over whether these gifts have ceased or continue today, asserting that genuine experiences of the Holy Spirit validate Scripture rather than the other way around. Idleman encourages believers to interpret their experiences through the lens of Scripture and highlights the importance of emotional worship as a response to the Holy Spirit's presence. He calls for a return to a vibrant faith filled with the Holy Spirit, urging the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God and to embrace the gifts He provides for the edification of the church.
When God Builds a Church
By Shane Idleman1741:01Gifts of the Holy SpiritBuilding a ChurchMAT 7:21JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 12:41CO 12:11CO 13:11CO 14:1EPH 4:11HEB 10:241PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes that when God builds a church, it will thrive on the right foundation, which includes upholding truth, fostering unity, and prioritizing prayer. He discusses the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as faith, miracles, and healing, asserting that these gifts are still relevant today and essential for a vibrant church. Idleman highlights that love must be the motive behind all actions within the church, and he encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God to experience the fullness of the Spirit's power. He concludes with a call to readiness for Christ's return, urging listeners to open their hearts to God's truth and grace.
Understanding the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
By Mike Bickle151:10:48Faith and ExpressionGifts of the Holy Spirit1CO 12:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding and operating in the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12. He stresses that these gifts are available to every believer and encourages the congregation to recognize and act upon the subtle impressions from the Holy Spirit, rather than waiting for dramatic manifestations. Bickle explains the nine gifts, categorizing them into revelation, power, and utterance gifts, and highlights the importance of faith and expression in activating these gifts. He urges believers to value the 'whispers' of the Spirit and to step out in faith to minister to others, thereby experiencing the power of God in their lives.
Spiritual Gifts: Wisdom, Knowledge, Faith, and Healing
By Shane Idleman151:09:00Empowerment by the Holy SpiritSpiritual Gifts1CO 12:1Shane Idleman discusses the spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of understanding and applying these gifts in today's church. He addresses the diversity of beliefs within the congregation regarding supernatural gifts, urging a balanced approach that neither dismisses nor overemphasizes them. Idleman highlights specific gifts such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, and healing, explaining their significance and how they can be manifested in the lives of believers. He encourages the church to seek these gifts for the edification of the body of Christ, while also acknowledging the need for maturity and discernment in their use. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide and empower believers in their spiritual journey.
Gifts
By John Follette0ROM 11:291CO 12:11CO 13:11CO 13:41CO 14:1John Follette delves into the teachings of Paul in Romans and I Corinthians, emphasizing the importance of operating spiritual gifts with the right motives. He highlights the need for the love of God, 'agape' love, to be the driving force behind the manifestation of gifts, rather than selfish desires or personal ambitions. By exploring the original Greek text, he reveals the true essence of Paul's message, focusing on the 'excellent way' of love that should govern the use of spiritual gifts. Follette warns that without love as the foundation, even the most powerful gifts are meaningless and do not bring glory to God or spiritual growth.
It's Supper Time. Where's Martha? - Serving Gifts
By Denis Lyle0JHN 14:12ACT 2:22ACT 5:16ROM 1:81CO 12:12CO 5:72CO 12:72TI 4:20HEB 13:8REV 22:18Denis Lyle delves into the topic of whether God performs miracles today, exploring the concept of sign gifts and the historical context of miracles in the Bible. He emphasizes that while God is capable of miracles, the purpose of miracles in the Bible was to authenticate messengers of God and confirm His Word, particularly during specific periods like the days of Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Christ and the apostles. Lyle addresses the misconception that miracles should be a normal experience for believers today, highlighting the unique nature of the apostolic age and the specific purpose miracles served in confirming God's messengers and His Word.
Day 202, John 5
By David Servant0EXO 15:26DEU 7:15JHN 4:48JHN 5:14JHN 5:29JHN 5:451CO 12:1REV 20:5David Servant preaches on the significance of God's healing power demonstrated at the Pool of Bethesda, highlighting how God mercifully performs signs to provoke belief and sometimes heals people without faith. He emphasizes that healings are gifts of the Spirit and encourages those who witness others being healed. The sermon also delves into the spiritual lesson that sin can lead to God's judgment in the form of sickness, as seen in Jesus' warning to the healed man. Ultimately, the lesson is that Jesus will one day resurrect everyone, with believers characterized by good deeds and unbelievers facing judgment based on their actions.
I Would Not Have You Ignorant
By G.W. North0Church OrderSpiritual GiftsROM 12:61CO 2:141CO 3:11CO 12:11CO 12:41CO 13:11CO 14:371CO 14:402CO 7:8EPH 4:11G.W. North emphasizes the Apostle Paul's teachings in his first letter to the Corinthians, which, while containing rebuke and correction, also provides vital instruction about the Spiritual Man and the gifts of the Spirit. Paul challenges the Corinthians, who had become carnal due to sin, to recognize the divine authority behind his teachings and to restore order and spirituality within the church. The letter serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering to spiritual truths and maintaining a proper relationship with God. North highlights that the need for such stern warnings reflects the church's struggle with sin, yet it also offers a wealth of truth that believers must embrace. Ultimately, the epistle's teachings on spiritual gifts remain essential for the church today.
Concerning the Spirituals
By G.W. North0Body Of ChristSpiritual Gifts1CO 12:1G.W. North emphasizes the significance of what Paul refers to as 'the Spirituals', suggesting that these should be understood not merely as 'gifts' but as 'spiritual ministries' or 'operations'. He highlights the importance of the human element in utilizing these gifts, which are neutral by themselves but intended by God to be instruments for good. North encourages a deeper exploration of the original apostolic thought to grasp the true meaning and purpose behind these spiritual functions within the body of Christ. This understanding shifts the focus from the gifts themselves to the active role of believers in using them according to God's will. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a recognition of the divine design behind these spiritual operations.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now concerning spiritual gifts - This was a subject about which they appear to have written to the apostle, and concerning which there were probably some contentions among them. The words περι των πνευματικων may as well be translated concerning spiritual persons, as spiritual gifts; and indeed the former agrees much better with the context. I would not have you ignorant - I wish you fully to know whence all such gifts come, and for what end they are given, that each person may serve the Church in the capacity in which God has placed him, that there may be no misunderstandings and no schism in the body.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now concerning spiritual gifts,.... Though the word "gifts" is not in the original text, it is rightly supplied by our translators, as it is in the Arabic version: for the apostle does not mean spiritual graces, nor spiritual words, or doctrines, nor spiritual meats and drinks, nor spiritual men, each of which are mentioned before in this epistle; though the latter is thought by some to be here intended, and that the apostle's view is to show the difference between those that are spiritual, and those that are not; but as spiritual gifts are the subject of the apostle's discourse throughout this chapter, and the two following, they seem very manifestly to be designed here. The apostle having gone through various heads of discourse, which he either of himself, or at the request of others, wrote upon, proceeds to a new subject, that of spiritual gifts, which he seems to have been desired to give his thoughts upon, and advice about; since there were some in this church who were discouraged, because they had not the gifts which some had; and others that had them were elated and puffed up with them, and treated those below them with neglect and contempt; and with a view to both these the apostle writes as follows, brethren, I would not have you ignorant; neither of the author of these gifts, who is the Spirit of God, who dispenses them according to his sovereign will and pleasure, and not according to the deserts of men, and are not acquired by the industry, or through the merit of any, but are his free grace gifts; nor of the nature of them, for there are differences and diversities of them, some have one, and some another, but no man all; nor of the design and use of them, which is the edification of the whole body; and every gift, though ever so mean, is of service; and therefore as, on the one hand, none ought to be discouraged, so, on the other hand, none should be lifted up with pride, or give way to a boasting spirit.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle comes now to treat of spiritual gifts, which abounded in the church of Corinth, but were greatly abused. What these gifts were is at large told us in the body of the chapter; namely, extraordinary offices and powers, bestowed on ministers and Christians in the first ages, for conviction of unbelievers, and propagation of the gospel. Gifts and graces, charismata and charis, greatly differ. Both indeed were freely given of God. But where grace is given it is for the salvation of those who have it. Gifts are bestowed for the advantage and salvation of others. And there may be great gifts where there is not a dram of grace, but persons possessed of them are utterly out of the divine favour. They are great instances of divine benignity to men, but do not by themselves prove those who have them to be the objects of divine complacency. This church was rich in gifts, but there were many things scandalously out of order in it. Now concerning these spiritual gifts, that is, the extraordinary powers they had received from the Spirit, I. The apostle tells them he would not have them ignorant either of their original or use. They came from God, and were to be used for him. It would lead them far astray if they were ignorant of one or the other of these. Note, Right information is of great use as to all religious practice. It is wretched work which gifted men make who either do not know or do not advert to the nature and right use of the gifts with which they are endowed. II. He puts them in the mind of the sad state out of which they had been recovered: You were Gentiles, carried away to dumb idols, even as you were led, Co1 12:2. While they were so, they could have no pretensions to be spiritual men, nor to have spiritual gifts. While they were under the conduct of the spirit of Gentilism, they could not be influenced by the Spirit of Christ. If they well understood their former condition, they could not but know that all true spiritual gifts were from God. Now concerning this observe, 1. Their former character: they were Gentiles. Not God's peculiar people, but of the nations whom he had in a manner abandoned. The Jews were, before, his chosen people, distinguished from the rest of the world by his favour. To them the knowledge and worship of the true God were in a manner confined. The rest of the world were strangers to the covenant of promise, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and in a manner without God, Eph 2:12. Such Gentiles were the body of the Corinthians, before their conversion to Christianity. What a change was here! Christian Corinthians were once Gentiles. Note, It is of great use to the Christian, and a proper consideration to stir him up both to duty and thankfulness, to think what once he was: You were Gentiles. 2. The conduct they were under: Carried away to these dumb idols, even as you were led. They were hurried upon the grossest idolatry, the worship even of stocks and stones, through the force of a vain imagination, and the fraud of their priests practising on their ignorance, for, whatever were the sentiments of their philosophers, this was the practice of the herd. The body of the people paid their homage and worship to dumb idols, that had ears but could not hear, and mouths but could not speak, Psa 115:5, Psa 115:6. Miserable abjectness of mind! And those who despised these gross conceptions of the vulgar yet countenanced them by their practice. O dismal state of Gentilism! Could the Spirit of God be among such stupid idolators, or they be influenced by it? How did the prince of this world triumph in the blindness of mankind! How thick a mist had he cast over their minds! III. He shows them how they might discern those gifts that were from the Spirit of God, true spiritual gifts: No man, speaking by the Spirit, calls Jesus accursed. Thus did both Jews and Gentiles: they blasphemed him as an impostor, and execrated his name, and deemed it abominable. And yet many Jews, who were exorcists and magicians, went about, pretending to work wonders by the Spirit of God (vid. Lightfoot's Horae in loc.), and many among the Gentiles pretended to inspiration. Now the apostle tells them none could act under the influence, nor by the power, of the Spirit of God, who disowned and blasphemed Christ: for the Spirit of God bore uncontrollable witness to Christ by prophecy, miracles, his resurrection from the dead, the success of his doctrine among men, and its effect upon them; and could never so far contradict itself as to declare him accursed. And on the other hand no man could say Jesus was the Lord (that is, live by this faith, and work miracles to prove it), but it must be by the Holy Ghost. To own this truth before men, and maintain it to the death, and live under the influence of it, could not be done without the sanctification of the Holy Ghost. No man can call Christ Lord, with a believing subjection to him and dependence upon him, unless that faith be wrought by the Holy Ghost. No man can confess this truth in the day of trial but by the Holy Ghost animating and encouraging him. Note, We have as necessary a dependence on the Spirit's operation and influence for our sanctification and perseverance as on the mediation of Christ for our reconciliation and acceptance with God: and no man could confirm this truth with a miracle but by the Holy Ghost. No evil spirit would lend assistance, if it were in his power, to spread a doctrine and religion so ruinous to the devil's kingdom. The substance of what the apostle asserts and argues here is that whatever pretences there were to inspiration or miracles, among those who were enemies to Christianity, they could not be from the Spirit of God; but no man could believe this with his heart, nor prove with a miracle that Jesus was Christ, but by the Holy Ghost: so that the extraordinary operations and powers among them did all proceed from the Spirit of God. He adds, IV. These spiritual gifts, though proceeding from the same Spirit, are yet various. They have one author and original, but are themselves of various kinds. A free cause may produce variety of effects; and the same giver may bestow various gifts, Co1 12:4. There are diversities of gifts, such as revelations, tongues, prophecy, interpretations of tongues; but the same Spirit. There are differences of administrations, or different offices, and officers to discharge them, different ordinances and institutions (see Co1 12:28-30), but the same Lord, who appointed all, Co1 12:6. There are diversities of operations, or miraculous powers, called energēmata dunameōn (Co1 12:10), as here energēmata, but it is the same God that worketh all in all. There are various gifts, administrations, and operations, but all proceed from one God, one Lord, one Spirit; that is, from Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, the spring and origin of all spiritual blessings and bequests: all issue from the same fountain; all have the same author. However different they may be in themselves, in this they agree; all are from God. And several of the kinds are here specified, Co1 12:8-10. Several persons had their several gifts, some one, some another, all from and by the same Spirit. To one was given the word of wisdom; that is, say some, a knowledge of the mysteries of the gospel, and ability to explain them, an exact understanding of the design, nature, and doctrines, of the Christian religion. Others say an uttering of grave sentences, like Solomon's proverbs. Some confine this word of wisdom to the revelations made to and by the apostles. - To another the word of knowledge, by the same Spirit; that is, say some, the knowledge of mysteries (Co1 2:13): wrapped up in the prophecies, types, and histories of the Old Testament: say others, a skill and readiness to give advice and counsel in perplexed cases. - To another faith, by the same Spirit; that is, the faith of miracles, or a faith in the divine power and promise, whereby they were enabled to trust God in any emergency, and go on in the way of their duty, and own and profess the truths of Christ, whatever was the difficulty or danger. - To another the gift of healing, by the same Spirit; that is, healing the sick, either by laying on of hands, or anointing with oil, or with a bare word. - To another the working of miracles; the efficacies of powers, energēmata dunameōn, such as raising the dead, restoring the blind to sight, giving speech to the dumb, hearing to the deaf, and the use of limbs to the lame. - To another prophecy, that is, ability to foretel future events, which is the more usual sense of prophecy; or to explain scripture by a peculiar gift of the Spirit. See Co1 14:24. - To another the discerning of Spirits, power to distinguish between true and false prophets, or to discern the real and internal qualifications of any person for an office, or to discover the inward workings of the mind by the Holy Ghost, as Peter did those of Ananias, Act 5:3. - To another divers kinds of tongues, or ability to speak languages by inspiration. - To another the interpretation of tongues, or ability to render foreign languages readily and properly into their own. With such variety of spiritual gifts were the first ministers and churches blessed. V. The end for which these gifts were bestowed: The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal, Co1 12:7. The Spirit was manifested by the exercise of these gifts; his influence and interest appeared in them. But they were not distributed for the mere honour and advantage of those who had them, but for the benefit of the church, to edify the body, and spread and advance the gospel. Note, Whatever gifts God confers on any man, he confers them that he may do good with them, whether they be common or spiritual. The outward gifts of his bounty are to be improved for his glory, and employed in doing good to others. No man has them merely for himself. They are a trust put into his hands, to profit withal; and the more he profits others with them, the more abundantly will they turn to his account in the end, Phi 4:17. Spiritual gifts are bestowed, that men may with them profit the church and promote Christianity. They are not given for show, but for service; not for pomp and ostentation, but for edification; not to magnify those that have them, but to edify others. VI. The measure and proportion in which they are given: All these worketh one and the same Spirit, dividing to every man as he will. It is according to the sovereign pleasure of the donor. What more free than a gift? And shall not the Spirit of God do what he will with his own? May he not give to what persons he pleases, and in what proportion he pleases; one gift to one man, and another to another; to one more, and another fewer, as he thinks fit? Is he not the best judge how his own purpose shall be served, and his own donatives bestowed? It is not as men will, nor as they may think fit, but as the Spirit pleases. Note, The Holy Ghost is a divine person. He works divine effects and divides divine gifts a he will, by his own power, and according to his own pleasure, without dependence or control. But though he distributes these gifts freely and uncontrollably, they are intended by him, not for private honour and advantage, but for public benefit, for the edification of the body, the church.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:1–14:40 The church at Corinth had placed too much emphasis on the gift of tongues (see 14:1-25, 27; cp. the lists in 12:8-10, 28, where Paul places tongues last), so Paul gives corrective advice regarding the value and use of spiritual gifts. 12:1-3 Paul introduces the topic, emphasizing the active presence of the Holy Spirit in believers.