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Romans 12:6
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Jim Cymbala
Manley Beasley
Dwight Pentecost
Leonard Ravenhill
William MacDonald
William FitchSummary
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- Adam Clarke
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- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having then gifts differing, etc. - As the goodness of God, with this view of our mutual subserviency and usefulness, has endowed us with different gifts and qualifications, let each apply himself to the diligent improvement of his particular office and talent, and modestly keep within the bounds of it, not exalting himself or despising others. Whether prophecy - That prophecy, in the New Testament, often means the gift of exhorting, preaching, or of expounding the Scriptures, is evident from many places in the Gospels, Acts, and St. Paul's Epistles, see Co1 11:4, Co1 11:5; and especially Co1 14:3 : He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. This was the proper office of a preacher; and it is to the exercise of this office that the apostle refers in the whole of the chapter from which the above quotations are made. See also Luk 1:76; Luk 7:28; Act 15:32; Co1 14:29. I think the apostle uses the term in the same sense here - Let every man who has the gift of preaching and interpreting the Scriptures do it in proportion to the grace and light he has received from God, and in no case arrogate to himself knowledge which he has not received; let him not esteem himself more highly on account of this gift, or affect to be wise above what is written, or indulge himself in fanciful interpretations of the word of God. Dr. Taylor observes that the measure of faith, Rom 12:3, and the proportion of faith, Rom 12:6, seem not to relate to the degree of any gift considered in itself, but rather in the relation and proportion which it bore to the gifts of others; for it is plain that he is here exhorting every man to keep soberly within his own sphere. It is natural to suppose that the new converts might be puffed up with the several gifts that were bestowed upon them; and every one might be forward to magnify his own to the disparagement of others: therefore the apostle advises them to keep each within his proper sphere; to know and observe the just measure and proportion of the gift intrusted to him, not to gratify his pride but to edify the Church. The αναλογια της πιστεως, which we here translate the proportion of faith, and which some render the analogy of faith, signifies in grammar "the similar declension of similar words;" but in Scriptural matters it has been understood to mean the general and consistent plan or scheme of doctrines delivered in the Scriptures; where every thing bears its due relation and proportion to another. Thus the death of Christ is commensurate in its merits to the evils produced by the fall of Adam. The doctrine of justification by faith bears the strictest analogy or proportion to the grace of Christ and the helpless, guilty, condemned state of man: whereas the doctrine of justification by Works is out of all analogy to the demerit of sin, the perfection of the law, the holiness of God, and the miserable, helpless state of man. This may be a good general view of the subject; but when we come to inquire what those mean by the analogy of faith who are most frequent in the use of the term, we shall find that it means neither more nor less than their own creed; and though they tell you that their doctrines are to be examined by the Scriptures, yet they give you roundly to know that you are to understand these Scriptures in precisely the same way as they have interpreted them. "To the law and to the testimony," says Dr. Campbell, "is the common cry; only every one, the better to secure the decision on the side he has espoused, would have you previously resolve to put no sense whatever on the law and the testimony but what his favourite doctrine will admit. Thus they run on in a shuffling, circular sort of argument, which, though they studiously avoid exposing, is, when dragged into the open light, neither more nor less than this; 'you are to try our doctrine by the Scriptures only; but then you are to be very careful that you explain the Scripture solely by our doctrine.' A wonderful plan of trial, which begins with giving judgment, and ends with examining the proof, wherein the whole skill and ingenuity of the judges are to be exerted in wresting the evidence so as to give it the appearance of supporting the sentence pronounced before hand." See Dr. Campbell's Dissertations on the Gospels, Diss. iv. sect. 14, vol. i, page 146, 8vo. edit., where several other sensible remarks may be found.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Having then gifts differing according to the grace given to us--Here, let it be observed, all the gifts of believers alike are viewed as communications of mere grace. whether--we have the gift of prophecy--that is, of inspired teaching (as in Act 15:32). Anyone speaking with divine authority--whether with reference to the past, the present, or the future--was termed a prophet (Exo 7:1). let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith--rather, "of our faith." Many Romish expositors and some Protestant (as CALVIN and BENGEL, and, though, hesitatingly, BEZA and HODGE), render this "the analogy of faith," understanding by it "the general tenor" or "rule of faith," divinely delivered to men for their guidance. But this is against the context, whose object is to show that, as all the gifts of believers are according to their respective capacity for them, they are not to be puffed up on account of them, but to use them purely for their proper ends.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having then gifts, differing,.... As in a natural body, the various members of it have not the same office, and do not perform the same actions, thus they have not the same, but different faculties; one has one faculty, another another; the eye has the faculty of seeing, the ear of hearing, &c. thus in the spiritual body the church, as there are different members, these members have not the same work and business assigned them; some are employed one way, and some another; also they have diversities of gifts for their different administrations and operations, and all from Christ their head, by the same Spirit, and for the service of the whole body, according to the grace that is given unto us; for all these gifts are not the effects of nature, the fruits of human power, diligence, and industry, but flow from the grace of God, who dispenses them when, where, and to whom he pleases in a free and sovereign manner; and therefore to be acknowledged as such, and used to his glory, and for the good of his church and people. Wherefore whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith. The offices here, and hereafter mentioned, are not of an extraordinary, but ordinary kind, such as are lasting, and will continue in the church unto the end of time: and are divided into two parts, which are after subdivided into other branches. The division is into "prophesying" and "ministering". By "prophesying" is meant, not foretelling things to come, thought this gift was bestowed upon some, as Agabus, and others in the Christian church; but this, as it is of an extraordinary nature, so it is not stinted and limited according to the proportion of faith; but preaching the Gospel is here designed, which is the sense of the word in many places of Scripture, particularly in Co1 13:2. Now such who have this gift of prophecy, or of opening and explaining the Scriptures, ought to make use of it, and constantly attend toil: "let us prophesy"; diligently prepare for it by prayer, reading and meditation, and continually exercise it as opportunity offers; nor should any difficulty and discouragement deter from it: or whereas this last clause is not in the original text, it may be supplied from Rom 12:3; thus, "let us think soberly", who have this gift, and not be elated with it, or carry it haughtily to those who attend on the exercise of it: but behave with sobriety, modesty, and humility, in the discharge thereof: "according to the proportion of faith". There must be faith, or no prophesying; a man must believe, and therefore speak, or speak not at all; a Gospel minister ought not to be a sceptic, or in doubt about the main principles of religion; such as concern the three divine persons, the office, grace, and righteousness of Christ, and the way of salvation by him: he should be at a point in these things, should firmly believe, and with assurance assert them, nor fear to be called dogmatical on that account: he is to preach according to his faith, the proportion of it: which may be the same with the measure of it, Rom 12:3. And so the Syriac version reads it, , "according to the measure of his faith"; to which the Arabic version agrees; that is, according to the measure of the gift of Christ he has received; according to the abilities bestowed on him; according to that light, knowledge, faith, and experience he has; he ought to preach up unto it, and not in the least come short of it; or by "the proportion", or "analogy of faith", may be meant a scheme of Gospel truths, a form of sound words, a set of principles upon the plan of the Scriptures, deduced from them, and agreeably to them; and which are all of a piece, and consistent with themselves, from which the prophesier or preacher should never swerve: or the Scriptures themselves, the sure word of prophecy, the rule and standard of faith and practice: the scope of the text is to be attended to, its connection with the preceding or following verses, or both; and it is to be compared with other passages of Scripture, and accordingly to be explained: and this is to follow the rule directed to.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:6 The ability to prophesy was one of the most important of the New Testament gifts (see also 1 Cor 12:28; Eph 4:11). Although prophets are mentioned in several passages in Acts as predicting the future (see Acts 11:28; 21:10-12), the prophet’s most fundamental responsibility is to communicate God’s message to the community of believers (1 Cor 12:3, 24-25, 29-30; see also 1 Cor 14:1-40). • as much faith as God has given you (literally in proportion to the faith): Proportion (Greek analogia) is a word drawn from mathematics and logic, where it refers to the correct proportions in a relationship among things, quantities, or ideas. Paul uses the phrase to remind prophets to make sure that their utterances are in right proportion to faith, whether the amount of individual faith the prophet has been given, or the Christian faith in general (see study note on Rom 12:3). This passage has given theology the phrase the analogy of faith, which refers to the importance of bringing the interpretation of any particular passage into line with the teaching of all of Scripture.
Romans 12:6
Living Sacrifices
5so in Christ we who are many are one body, and each member belongs to one another.6We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith;7if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;
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Something You Need, Something You Can Be
By Jim Cymbala5.3K55:59PurposeMAT 6:33ACT 15:32ROM 12:6ROM 12:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of encouraging others through the Word of God. She mentions how Steve Green, a previous guest, used music and Scripture to feed the spirit and grow faith. The speaker highlights Acts 15:32, where Judas and Silas encouraged the brothers through their prophetic words. She encourages the audience to share what God has revealed to them from the Bible and to avoid idle conversations that do not edify. The speaker also references 1 Corinthians 14:3, which states that prophesying is meant to speak to men for their encouragement. She concludes by emphasizing the different gifts given by God, including the gift of encouragement, as mentioned in Romans 12:6 and 12:8.
Source of Faith
By Manley Beasley2.7K27:07FaithMAT 6:33MRK 11:22ROM 10:17ROM 12:3ROM 12:61CO 12:9GAL 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that faith comes from God. He explains that God takes the initiative to initiate and stimulate faith in individuals. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to discover what God is saying and how He is saying it, in order to align themselves with His will. The sermon references Romans 12:3 and 12:6, which emphasize the importance of humility and trusting in God's grace.
(Gifts) Determining Gifts
By Dwight Pentecost2.3K30:48GiftsLUK 9:57ROM 12:6EPH 4:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of a young boy who approached him to ask about the missionaries listed in the bulletin. This encounter leads the speaker to discuss the importance of discovering and exercising one's spiritual gift. He emphasizes that every believer has a spiritual gift that is necessary and needed in the body of Christ. The speaker also shares his own love for singing and how using his gift brings him joy and satisfaction.
We Are the Lord's
By Leonard Ravenhill2.1K59:02MAL 3:6LUK 24:49JHN 17:17ROM 12:6ROM 14:1ROM 14:10ROM 15:1In this sermon, Brother Herb emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-control over our physical bodies. He references Romans 12:1-2, which encourages believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to God. Brother Herb shares a cautionary tale about a young lady who hastily decides to marry a man she knows nothing about, highlighting the importance of making wise decisions. He then draws a parallel between this story and our own bodies, reminding listeners that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with respect and purity. He challenges believers to examine their actions and desires, urging them to align their lives with God's will.
Principles for Serving God - Fulfilling Our Appointed Task
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:01:41PrinciplesMAT 6:33MRK 13:34ACT 2:22ROM 12:6EPH 4:112TI 4:51PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of being zealous and radical in one's faith versus being diplomatic and sitting on the fence. He compares this to watching a football game and criticizing the players' decisions from the sidelines. The speaker emphasizes that clarity in one's ministry takes time and should not be compared to those who have been walking with the Lord for many years. He encourages listeners to be faithful in whatever task or ministry they have been assigned by God, reminding them that they have been given authority by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their tasks.
The Local Church 2 - Part 4
By William MacDonald2.0K07:35ROM 12:6
This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and utilizing the spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit to believers. It highlights the need for humility in acknowledging these gifts as sovereign blessings from God, not earned through personal efforts. The focus is on exercising these gifts for the benefit of the church and the edification of others, rather than for self-display or pride. The passage in Ephesians 4:11-16 is explored to understand the purpose of these gifts in equipping believers for ministry and building up the body of Christ in unity and maturity.
The Gifts of the Spirit
By William Fitch2.0K28:12ROM 12:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing and using spiritual gifts to glorify Christ. He highlights the need for exercising these gifts in today's world, which is filled with the powers of evil. The sermon focuses on the church in Corinth, where the gifts of the Holy Spirit were being commercialized and used for selfish purposes, causing rivalry and disorder. The preacher stresses the need for safeguards in order to prevent such misuse of spiritual gifts, and emphasizes the importance of clinging to the verities and loyalties of the faith, particularly the recognition of the Lordship of Christ.
Missions
By Paul Washer1.7K46:37ROM 12:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of missions and spreading the gospel to those who have not heard it. He shares personal stories of missionaries in Siberia and Peru who are dedicated to bringing Christ to people in desperate need. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to have a vision for the world and to use their resources and abilities to serve God and win souls. He also highlights the faith and dedication of unknown missionaries who have planted numerous churches despite their limited resources. The sermon encourages listeners to embrace the Great Commission and be willing to go or support those who are going to share the gospel.
(Ephesians) Equipping of the Saints
By Brian Brodersen1.6K53:58ACT 2:33ROM 12:6EPH 4:7EPH 4:11In this sermon on Ephesians 4, the speaker emphasizes the transition from doctrinal teachings to practical instructions in the epistle. The importance of unity within the body of Christ is highlighted, with a reminder to avoid division over non-essential matters. The speaker appreciates the simplicity of Pastor Chuck's ministry, which made it accessible for everyone to participate and serve. The role of apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor teachers is discussed, emphasizing that their purpose is to equip the saints for the work of the ministry.
How to Preach God's Word
By Zac Poonen1.3K41:20ECC 12:9MAT 13:52JHN 3:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 14:31TI 2:122PE 1:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing God's Word without being influenced by cultural norms or denominational traditions. It highlights the empowerment of all believers, regardless of age, gender, or social status, to prophesy and speak God's truth in everyday speech for edification, exhortation, and consolation. The key points include being filled with the Holy Spirit, studying and arranging God's word, sharing in an interesting and practical manner, and loving people to spur them to action.
Tactics of Satan
By Gareth Evans1.2K40:49SatanROM 12:6ROM 12:101CO 12:41CO 12:7GAL 6:5EPH 4:4EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of seeing over 100 young adults come to Christ in his small town. He emphasizes the joy of serving God and witnessing His anointing in ministry. The speaker also encourages the audience to focus on their own calling from God and not try to be something else. He then tells a story about a man he met at a men's retreat who later organized a car repair day at his church, highlighting the importance of using one's gifts to serve others and build unity in the body of Christ. The sermon references Ephesians 4:4-11, which speaks about the different gifts given by Christ to equip the saints for ministry.
Romans 12:6-8
By Keith Price1.1K1:03:47ROM 12:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of using the gifts that God has given us to serve Him. He references a book called "The Fate of Empires" and emphasizes that in the last closing decades of every empire, actors, athletes, and musicians become the focus of attention. However, the speaker encourages using these interests as opportunities to serve the Lord. He then goes on to discuss the different gifts mentioned in Romans 12:6 and how they should be used in proportion to one's faith. The speaker emphasizes the importance of treating fellow believers as family and refers to the concept of believers being part of a flock with Jesus as the shepherd.
(1 Corinthians) Spiritual Gifts
By Brian Brodersen1.0K52:57ROM 12:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the different gifts that God has given to believers according to Ephesians 4:7-11. These gifts include apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The speaker emphasizes that even though some gifts may seem more supernatural than others, all gifts are supernatural in nature and should be used for the benefit of others. The sermon also highlights the importance of serving and ministering to others, even in seemingly mundane tasks, as a way to exercise and grow in our gifts.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Church - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.0K1:14:26PRO 29:25MAT 10:7JHN 3:30ACT 20:29ROM 12:61CO 14:31CO 14:29
This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the gifts of the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church, focusing on prophecy, discernment, and sensitivity in conscience. It warns against seeking significance, honor from men, and security in others rather than in Christ. The goal is to glorify Christ, be transformed, and have a deep connection with Him.
Fit or Misfit? (Part 8): The Motivational Gift of Exhortation
By Richard Sipley97347:06ROM 12:6The video is a sermon transcript about a man who had a passionate heart for Jesus Christ and impacted Europe with his love for God. The speaker begins by expressing gratitude for being part of a long history of genuine children of God. The sermon focuses on the design of our lives and the role of the Holy Spirit in leading us to cooperate with God's will. The speaker also mentions the motivational gift of exhortation and shares a testimony of a man who experienced transformation through his faith in Christ.
1 Corinthians 12:2
By Gerry Covenhoven92145:05ACT 20:7ROM 12:6The video discusses the scriptural approach to Bible study and the importance of participation from multiple individuals. It emphasizes the idea of dialogue and interaction during these study sessions, rather than one person delivering a long message. The speaker also highlights the concept of spiritual gifts and how they are distributed by God according to each person's abilities. The video mentions the example of the Dunning Park Assembly in Detroit, where a speaker's committee helps individuals improve their speaking skills through feedback and guidance.
Romans 12:6-8
By Doc Greenway61843:59RomansROM 12:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of living in a fast-paced world and losing the art of meditation and waiting on God. The focus is on understanding what God requires of us and being willing to fulfill our role in the body of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being faithful in our ministry, even if it is unseen or unknown by others, as God never forgets or loses sight of our efforts. The sermon also highlights the significance of spiritual consecration and giving ourselves unreservedly to God in order to experience His power and fulfill His will.
Cornelius and Peter
By Todd Atkinson4551:02:36God's GiftsEarly ChurchOpenness to ChangeMRK 7:14JHN 4:10ACT 2:38ACT 10:1ACT 10:34ACT 10:44ACT 11:17ROM 12:6EPH 2:8Todd Atkinson preaches on the transformative encounter between Cornelius and Peter, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's gifts, particularly the Holy Spirit, and the need for openness to new understandings of faith. He highlights Cornelius as a devout man who, despite not being fully in the faith, exemplifies prayerfulness and generosity, while Peter grapples with his preconceived notions about clean and unclean. The sermon encourages believers to embrace the simplicity of the gospel, understanding that God's gifts are freely given and not based on merit. Atkinson calls for a community that welcomes all, reflecting God's grace and generosity, and challenges listeners to receive God's gifts without striving for worthiness.
Ministry in the Spirit - 2. Servanthood & the Gift of Serving
By Michael Flowers14129:21ServanthoodROM 12:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by praying for his words to be pleasing to God. He then invites the audience to turn to the book of Romans, specifically chapter 12, to reflect on spiritual gifts. The speaker shares a parable about indefinite pronouns and emphasizes the importance of using our gifts for the common good and celebrating each other's gifts. He also encourages the audience to recognize and employ the gifts that God has given them. The sermon emphasizes the need to not compare past experiences but to focus on being in a place of intimacy with God and serving Him wholeheartedly.
Lead Diligently: Taking Initiative to Minister to Others
By Mike Bickle201:16:28LeadershipInitiativeROM 12:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of taking initiative in ministry, urging believers to lead diligently in various capacities, whether in prayer meetings, Bible studies, or practical support systems. He highlights that true leadership is characterized by a deep sense of purpose, constant and earnest effort, and a willingness to serve others without waiting for permission. Bickle encourages young adults to develop their gifts and take risks, reminding them that diligence is key to fulfilling God's calling in their lives. He also stresses the need for a teachable spirit and the importance of serving for the good of others, rather than seeking personal recognition.
7 Commitments of a Forerunner
By Mike Bickle191:16:56Diligent LeadershipFinancial StewardshipROM 12:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the seven commitments of a forerunner, particularly focusing on leading diligently and engaging in financial power encounters. He encourages young believers to take initiative in ministry and to be diligent in their leadership, stressing that God desires to entrust them with wealth for the advancement of the gospel. Bickle shares personal stories of how radical giving has led to miraculous financial returns, illustrating the joy and faith that come from trusting God with our finances. He challenges listeners to adopt a lifestyle of extravagant giving, highlighting that true wealth is found in generosity and partnership with God.
The Gift of Prophecy
By Brian Guerin346:06ProphecySpiritual GiftsZEC 4:7MAT 7:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 13:11CO 14:1EPH 4:111TH 5:201PE 4:10REV 19:10Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of prophecy in the Christian life, encouraging believers to pursue a personal relationship with God and to be open to the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy. He illustrates the importance of bearing fruit in one's life as a reflection of one's walk with the Lord, and he shares personal anecdotes to highlight the necessity of encouragement and edification within the church community. Guerin also addresses the misconceptions surrounding prophecy, advocating for a healthy approach that allows for growth and learning, while emphasizing that prophecy should be rooted in love and aimed at building up the church. He encourages the congregation to eagerly desire the gift of prophecy, assuring them that mistakes are part of the learning process, and ultimately, the goal is to glorify God and strengthen one another.
The Gift of Prophecy
By G.W. North0Edification of the ChurchThe Gift of ProphecyPRO 9:1JOL 2:28ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 12:71CO 14:11CO 14:31EPH 4:111TH 5:201PE 4:11G.W. North emphasizes the paramount importance of the gift of Prophecy in the Church, asserting that it is the highest of spiritual gifts as indicated by the Apostle Paul. He explains that Prophecy serves as the foundational stream from which other gifts like Wisdom and Knowledge flow, and that it is essential for the edification of the Church. North argues that all believers are encouraged to prophesy, making it a common and vital practice during gatherings for worship. He highlights that the purpose of Prophecy is to build up the Church through words of comfort, guidance, and instruction. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a recognition of the significance of Prophecy in the life of the Church.
The Normal Christian Life
By Erlo Stegen0Service to OthersLiving Out FaithROM 12:6Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of living a life that aligns with God's expectations, as outlined in Romans 12:6-11. He warns that on Judgment Day, individuals will be held accountable for how they used their God-given talents and whether they showed compassion to others, as exemplified by the Good Samaritan. Stegen stresses that being a Christian is not merely about personal faith but involves actively serving others and fulfilling God's will throughout one's life. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their actions and attitudes, urging them to prioritize God's direction and to live out their faith with love and diligence. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to serve and to embody the heart of God in all interactions.
The Gift of Exhortation
By Chuck Smith0GraceExhortationROM 12:6EPH 2:8Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of God's gifts, which are given freely by grace and cannot be earned or deserved. He discusses how self-righteousness and feelings of unworthiness can hinder us from accepting these gifts, urging believers to embrace their unique identities and roles within the body of Christ. Smith highlights the gift of exhortation as essential for encouraging one another to act on their faith and to live out the teachings of Scripture. He encourages the congregation to accept God's grace and to actively participate in the church community, using their gifts to edify one another. Ultimately, he calls for believers to be doers of the Word, not just hearers, and to support each other in their spiritual journeys.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having then gifts differing, etc. - As the goodness of God, with this view of our mutual subserviency and usefulness, has endowed us with different gifts and qualifications, let each apply himself to the diligent improvement of his particular office and talent, and modestly keep within the bounds of it, not exalting himself or despising others. Whether prophecy - That prophecy, in the New Testament, often means the gift of exhorting, preaching, or of expounding the Scriptures, is evident from many places in the Gospels, Acts, and St. Paul's Epistles, see Co1 11:4, Co1 11:5; and especially Co1 14:3 : He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. This was the proper office of a preacher; and it is to the exercise of this office that the apostle refers in the whole of the chapter from which the above quotations are made. See also Luk 1:76; Luk 7:28; Act 15:32; Co1 14:29. I think the apostle uses the term in the same sense here - Let every man who has the gift of preaching and interpreting the Scriptures do it in proportion to the grace and light he has received from God, and in no case arrogate to himself knowledge which he has not received; let him not esteem himself more highly on account of this gift, or affect to be wise above what is written, or indulge himself in fanciful interpretations of the word of God. Dr. Taylor observes that the measure of faith, Rom 12:3, and the proportion of faith, Rom 12:6, seem not to relate to the degree of any gift considered in itself, but rather in the relation and proportion which it bore to the gifts of others; for it is plain that he is here exhorting every man to keep soberly within his own sphere. It is natural to suppose that the new converts might be puffed up with the several gifts that were bestowed upon them; and every one might be forward to magnify his own to the disparagement of others: therefore the apostle advises them to keep each within his proper sphere; to know and observe the just measure and proportion of the gift intrusted to him, not to gratify his pride but to edify the Church. The αναλογια της πιστεως, which we here translate the proportion of faith, and which some render the analogy of faith, signifies in grammar "the similar declension of similar words;" but in Scriptural matters it has been understood to mean the general and consistent plan or scheme of doctrines delivered in the Scriptures; where every thing bears its due relation and proportion to another. Thus the death of Christ is commensurate in its merits to the evils produced by the fall of Adam. The doctrine of justification by faith bears the strictest analogy or proportion to the grace of Christ and the helpless, guilty, condemned state of man: whereas the doctrine of justification by Works is out of all analogy to the demerit of sin, the perfection of the law, the holiness of God, and the miserable, helpless state of man. This may be a good general view of the subject; but when we come to inquire what those mean by the analogy of faith who are most frequent in the use of the term, we shall find that it means neither more nor less than their own creed; and though they tell you that their doctrines are to be examined by the Scriptures, yet they give you roundly to know that you are to understand these Scriptures in precisely the same way as they have interpreted them. "To the law and to the testimony," says Dr. Campbell, "is the common cry; only every one, the better to secure the decision on the side he has espoused, would have you previously resolve to put no sense whatever on the law and the testimony but what his favourite doctrine will admit. Thus they run on in a shuffling, circular sort of argument, which, though they studiously avoid exposing, is, when dragged into the open light, neither more nor less than this; 'you are to try our doctrine by the Scriptures only; but then you are to be very careful that you explain the Scripture solely by our doctrine.' A wonderful plan of trial, which begins with giving judgment, and ends with examining the proof, wherein the whole skill and ingenuity of the judges are to be exerted in wresting the evidence so as to give it the appearance of supporting the sentence pronounced before hand." See Dr. Campbell's Dissertations on the Gospels, Diss. iv. sect. 14, vol. i, page 146, 8vo. edit., where several other sensible remarks may be found.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Having then gifts differing according to the grace given to us--Here, let it be observed, all the gifts of believers alike are viewed as communications of mere grace. whether--we have the gift of prophecy--that is, of inspired teaching (as in Act 15:32). Anyone speaking with divine authority--whether with reference to the past, the present, or the future--was termed a prophet (Exo 7:1). let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith--rather, "of our faith." Many Romish expositors and some Protestant (as CALVIN and BENGEL, and, though, hesitatingly, BEZA and HODGE), render this "the analogy of faith," understanding by it "the general tenor" or "rule of faith," divinely delivered to men for their guidance. But this is against the context, whose object is to show that, as all the gifts of believers are according to their respective capacity for them, they are not to be puffed up on account of them, but to use them purely for their proper ends.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having then gifts, differing,.... As in a natural body, the various members of it have not the same office, and do not perform the same actions, thus they have not the same, but different faculties; one has one faculty, another another; the eye has the faculty of seeing, the ear of hearing, &c. thus in the spiritual body the church, as there are different members, these members have not the same work and business assigned them; some are employed one way, and some another; also they have diversities of gifts for their different administrations and operations, and all from Christ their head, by the same Spirit, and for the service of the whole body, according to the grace that is given unto us; for all these gifts are not the effects of nature, the fruits of human power, diligence, and industry, but flow from the grace of God, who dispenses them when, where, and to whom he pleases in a free and sovereign manner; and therefore to be acknowledged as such, and used to his glory, and for the good of his church and people. Wherefore whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith. The offices here, and hereafter mentioned, are not of an extraordinary, but ordinary kind, such as are lasting, and will continue in the church unto the end of time: and are divided into two parts, which are after subdivided into other branches. The division is into "prophesying" and "ministering". By "prophesying" is meant, not foretelling things to come, thought this gift was bestowed upon some, as Agabus, and others in the Christian church; but this, as it is of an extraordinary nature, so it is not stinted and limited according to the proportion of faith; but preaching the Gospel is here designed, which is the sense of the word in many places of Scripture, particularly in Co1 13:2. Now such who have this gift of prophecy, or of opening and explaining the Scriptures, ought to make use of it, and constantly attend toil: "let us prophesy"; diligently prepare for it by prayer, reading and meditation, and continually exercise it as opportunity offers; nor should any difficulty and discouragement deter from it: or whereas this last clause is not in the original text, it may be supplied from Rom 12:3; thus, "let us think soberly", who have this gift, and not be elated with it, or carry it haughtily to those who attend on the exercise of it: but behave with sobriety, modesty, and humility, in the discharge thereof: "according to the proportion of faith". There must be faith, or no prophesying; a man must believe, and therefore speak, or speak not at all; a Gospel minister ought not to be a sceptic, or in doubt about the main principles of religion; such as concern the three divine persons, the office, grace, and righteousness of Christ, and the way of salvation by him: he should be at a point in these things, should firmly believe, and with assurance assert them, nor fear to be called dogmatical on that account: he is to preach according to his faith, the proportion of it: which may be the same with the measure of it, Rom 12:3. And so the Syriac version reads it, , "according to the measure of his faith"; to which the Arabic version agrees; that is, according to the measure of the gift of Christ he has received; according to the abilities bestowed on him; according to that light, knowledge, faith, and experience he has; he ought to preach up unto it, and not in the least come short of it; or by "the proportion", or "analogy of faith", may be meant a scheme of Gospel truths, a form of sound words, a set of principles upon the plan of the Scriptures, deduced from them, and agreeably to them; and which are all of a piece, and consistent with themselves, from which the prophesier or preacher should never swerve: or the Scriptures themselves, the sure word of prophecy, the rule and standard of faith and practice: the scope of the text is to be attended to, its connection with the preceding or following verses, or both; and it is to be compared with other passages of Scripture, and accordingly to be explained: and this is to follow the rule directed to.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:6 The ability to prophesy was one of the most important of the New Testament gifts (see also 1 Cor 12:28; Eph 4:11). Although prophets are mentioned in several passages in Acts as predicting the future (see Acts 11:28; 21:10-12), the prophet’s most fundamental responsibility is to communicate God’s message to the community of believers (1 Cor 12:3, 24-25, 29-30; see also 1 Cor 14:1-40). • as much faith as God has given you (literally in proportion to the faith): Proportion (Greek analogia) is a word drawn from mathematics and logic, where it refers to the correct proportions in a relationship among things, quantities, or ideas. Paul uses the phrase to remind prophets to make sure that their utterances are in right proportion to faith, whether the amount of individual faith the prophet has been given, or the Christian faith in general (see study note on Rom 12:3). This passage has given theology the phrase the analogy of faith, which refers to the importance of bringing the interpretation of any particular passage into line with the teaching of all of Scripture.