Paul teaches about spiritual gifts and the unity of the church. Every genuine spiritual gift comes from the Holy Spirit and ultimately points to Jesus Christ as Lord.
Though there are many gifts and many forms of service, the same Spirit works through all believers. Gifts are not given for status or personal glory but for the strengthening of the whole church.
Paul compares the church to a human body. Every member is necessary, and no believer is unimportant or self-sufficient. God intentionally designed the body so believers would depend upon and care for one another.
The chapter ends by pointing toward “a more excellent way” — love, which will be fully explained in chapter 13.
Major themes:
Spiritual gifts from one Spirit
Unity in diversity
The church as the body of Christ
Mutual dependence among believers
Gifts used for the common good
1 Corinthians 12
(Verse 1)
Now concerning spiritual gifts,
I do not want you unaware.
You once were led by silent idols,
Carried wherever they would steer.
But now you confess by Spirit’s power:
“Jesus Christ is Lord.”
No one can speak that truth in faith
Except by God’s own Spirit.
(Verse 2)
There are different gifts —
But the same Spirit.
Different service —
But the same Lord.
Different workings —
But the same God
Who works in all.
(Chorus)
One Spirit.
One Lord.
One God over all.
Many gifts —
But one body.
Each given
For the good of all.
(Verse 3)
To one is given wisdom’s word.
To another, knowledge.
To another, faith.
To another, gifts of healing.
To another, mighty works.
To another, prophecy.
To another, discernment.
To another, tongues and interpretation.
But the Spirit distributes
As He wills.
(Verse 4)
The body is one — yet many parts.
The foot cannot say, “I do not belong.”
The ear cannot withdraw in shame.
The eye cannot say, “I have no need of you.”
God has arranged the body
Just as He desired.
(Bridge)
If one member suffers,
All suffer together.
If one is honored,
All rejoice together.
You are the body of Christ —
And individually members of it.
(Ending)
God appointed roles in the church:
Apostles, prophets, teachers,
Works of power, helps, guidance, tongues.
But earnestly desire the greater gifts —
And I will show you
A still more excellent way.
