Every time I read the following passage, I am amazed at how relevant it remains, despite being written in the early 1400s. Its timeless wisdom provides three profound lessons for our spiritual walk with Christ:

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” – 1 John 4:1

“You must not trust every word of others or feelings within yourselves, but cautiously and patiently ask if the matter is godly. Unhappily, we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak evil of others rather than their good. But Christ-like people do not pay attention to every bit of news, because they know that in human weakness they are prone to evil and untruthful words.

This is great wisdom for us: not to be hasty in our actions or stubborn in our own opinions. A part of this wisdom is also not to believe every word we hear, nor to tell others all that we hear, nor even what we believe. Take advice from a person who is wise and has a good conscience. Let us seek to learn from one wiser than ourselves rather than follow our own imaginations.

A good life makes us wise toward God and gives us experience in many things. The more humble we are and the more obedient we are toward God, the wiser we will be in all things, and the more our souls will be at peace.”

– The Imitation of Christ, Watkins, p. 62–63

Lesson 1: Discernment Through the Holy Spirit

In our modern world, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information from countless sources. News, social media, conversations, and even our own internal thoughts compete for attention. Kempis reminds us that the most critical filter for processing all this information is to ask: Is this godly?

God is the ultimate source of truth, and anything contrary to His nature cannot be trusted. Satan, the adversary, is skilled at crafting lies wrapped in a thin veneer of truth, exploiting our human vulnerabilities. This is why we need discernment, guided by the Holy Spirit, to distinguish truth from deception.

Practicing discernment may slow down our decision-making process, but as Kempis suggests, is that really a bad thing if it means getting closer to the truth? Rushing often leads to mistakes, while careful, prayerful reflection guided by the Spirit aligns us with God’s will.

(For more on this topic, see my related post: Patience and the Spiritual Gifts.)

Lesson 2: Wisdom in Thought and Action

Kempis warns us not to be hasty in our actions or stubborn in our opinions. Both haste and stubbornness can leave us vulnerable to deception. When we act impulsively, especially under the influence of strong emotions like anger, fear, or pride, we bypass the opportunity for thoughtful reflection and spiritual guidance.

Wisdom involves pausing to reflect and inviting the Holy Spirit into our decision-making process. Haste often leads to the spread of misinformation, unkind words, or actions that harm others. Kempis’ advice is a reminder to guard our hearts and words, being mindful of the consequences they may have on others and on our witness for Christ.

By exercising patience and thoughtfulness, we open ourselves to God’s wisdom and allow Him to guide our responses in a Christ-like manner.

Lesson 3: Humility, Obedience, and Peace

Kempis concludes by linking humility and obedience to God with wisdom and inner peace. In a world that often glorifies pride and self-sufficiency, humility can feel countercultural. Yet, it is through humility that we recognize our dependence on God and open ourselves to His guidance.

Obedience to God requires trusting in His wisdom over our own. When we surrender our will to His, we gain the peace that comes from knowing we are walking in alignment with His purpose. This peace is not the absence of challenges but the assurance that God is with us, guiding and sustaining us through every trial.

A Call to Live with Discernment

Kempis’ words remain as relevant today as they were over six centuries ago. In a noisy, fast-paced world, his call to discernment, wisdom, and humility invites us to slow down, seek God’s truth, and live in peace.

Let us take these lessons to heart as we strive to follow Christ more closely:

• Test the spirits and seek discernment from the Holy Spirit.
• Be wise, patient, and thoughtful in both actions and opinions.
• Embrace humility and obedience to God, trusting in His wisdom and finding peace in His presence.

May these timeless truths shape our hearts and minds, drawing us closer to Christ each day.

The post Living with Discernment: Timeless Lessons from Thomas à Kempis appeared first on The Spiritual Gifts Project.

Here’s how spiritual gifts contribute to the production of the fruit of the Spirit:

1. Spiritual Gifts Are Tools, and the Fruit Is the Evidence of Transformation

Spiritual gifts empower believers to serve others effectively, but they must be exercised in love and with godly character to be truly effective. The fruit of the Spirit—qualities like love, joy, and patience—ensure that spiritual gifts are used in a way that glorifies God and benefits others. For example:

• A teacher with the spiritual gift of teaching becomes more effective when their instruction is infused with love, kindness, and gentleness.
• A leader with the gift of administration will inspire trust when they lead with faithfulness, peace, and self-control.

The presence of the fruit ensures that spiritual gifts are not misused or wielded selfishly.

2. Gifts Shape the Environment for Fruit to Grow

When spiritual gifts are exercised, they foster environments where the fruit of the Spirit can flourish:

• A pastor using the gift of shepherding creates a community that encourages love and peace among members.
• An evangelist’s boldness may inspire others to grow in faithfulness and joy as they see God’s work in action.

Spiritual gifts build the Church, and a Spirit-filled community helps individuals grow in their Christlike character.

3. Fruit Grounds the Use of Gifts in Godly Character

The Apostle Paul emphasized the importance of love (a fruit of the Spirit) as the foundation for all spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 13:

• Without love, gifts like prophecy and knowledge lose their value.
• The fruit of the Spirit ensures that gifts are used not for personal gain but to edify others and glorify God.

For example, someone with the gift of exhortation will be most effective when delivering their encouragement with kindness, gentleness, and self-control.

4. Fruit Reflects the Outcome of Gifted Service

When spiritual gifts are used in alignment with God’s will, they produce fruit in the lives of others. A spiritually gifted counselor, for instance, might help someone grow in peace and joy. Similarly, a teacher using their gift might inspire their students to exhibit greater faithfulness and self-control.

In this way, the fruit of the Spirit is both the foundation and the result of spiritual gifts being used effectively.

5. The Holy Spirit Is the Source of Both Gifts and Fruit

Both spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit originate from the same source: the Holy Spirit. When believers submit to the Spirit, He empowers them with gifts for ministry and nurtures fruit in their lives. The more we align with the Spirit, the more our gifts and fruit work in harmony.

For example:

• As a believer exercises their gift of servanthood, they may also experience personal growth in patience and kindness.
• Using the gift of healing might cultivate deeper faithfulness and love as the healer witnesses God’s power at work.

Conclusion

Spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit are complementary aspects of a Spirit-filled life. Gifts empower believers to serve others and build the Church, while the fruit ensures that their service reflects the character of Christ. Together, they enable believers to fulfill their God-given purpose in a way that glorifies Him and blesses others.

As you discover and use your spiritual gifts, allow the Holy Spirit to cultivate His fruit in you. This balance ensures that your ministry is not only impactful but also deeply rooted in the character of Christ.

Reflection Questions: Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit through Spiritual Gifts

As you consider how the spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit work together in your life, here are some reflection questions to help you grow in your faith and service:

1. How are you currently using your spiritual gifts to serve others?
   Reflect on the areas in your life where you are actively using your gifts. Are you serving with love, humility, and a heart of service, or do you need to realign your motives with God’s will?
2. What fruit of the Spirit do you feel most called to grow in right now?
   Think about the qualities listed in Galatians 5:22. Is there a particular fruit (love, joy, peace, patience, etc.) that you feel God is calling you to cultivate more deeply in your life? How can you intentionally nurture it?
3. How can you ensure that your spiritual gifts are exercised in love?
   Paul emphasizes that love is the key to the effectiveness of all spiritual gifts. Are there areas in your service where you may be operating without a Christlike love? How can you bring greater love into your work for others?
4. In what ways can your spiritual gifts foster an environment for the fruit of the Spirit to grow in others?
   Think about your interactions with others. How can your use of gifts like teaching, leadership, or hospitality help create a space where others can experience peace, joy, and growth in Christ?
5. Do you sometimes feel that your gifts are disconnected from your personal growth in Christ?
   If you’ve been serving in a ministry or role for some time, consider whether you’re growing in the fruit of the Spirit as you serve. How can you stay grounded in Christ’s character while using your gifts?
6. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to empower both your gifts and the fruit in your life?
   Reflect on your reliance on the Holy Spirit. Are there areas where you are trying to serve or grow in your own strength? How can you invite the Spirit into your daily life to empower both your service and your character?
7. What practical steps can you take today to allow the fruit of the Spirit to be more visible in your life?
   Consider practical ways to express love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and the other fruits of the Spirit in your relationships and actions this week. How can you align your actions with God’s Spirit in a tangible way?

By reflecting on these questions, you can deepen your understanding of how spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit work together to transform your life and impact the lives of others. The Holy Spirit’s work in us is a continuous process—let’s continue to grow, serve, and live out the fruit of the Spirit with joy and purpose.

The post The Spiritual Gifts and the Fruit of the Spirit appeared first on The Spiritual Gifts Project.

TONGUES: CONSIDERING THE CESSATIONIST VS. CONTINUATIONIST VIEWS

National Association of Christian Ministers Summary Series: Theology

By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder

One of the most probing questions of this age is whether or not God is still using “sign gifts” to confirm the Gospel and communicate with his church.  This topic goes to the very core of all evangelical denominations forcing them to accept or reject these gifts in their worship services.  Every congregation must express a Continuationist (continuing the gifts) or Cessationist (ceasing from the gifts) position, there is no room for indecisiveness on this subject.  The author understands the sensitivity of this matter and its importance to the expression of Christian assembly and worship.  For this reason, it seems appropriate to examine the issue very carefully.

Jesus instructed his disciples in Mark 16 to preach the Gospel to the world.  This must have been an amazing instruction to his Jewish disciples who viewed salvation primarily for the Jews.  As if Jesus’ commission was not strange enough he went on to say: “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mr 16:17, 18) These comments seem much like many non-Christian cult practices that were then and still are performed by Gentiles, also alluded to by Paul. (1 Co 12:1-3) The disciples must have found this instruction strange. Nevertheless, Jesus said it and it was entered into the canon of scripture.

The Cessationist might argue that verses 9-20 of the Gospel of Mark does not appear in some of the older manuscripts; however, there are two serious problems with this view.  “One of the core distinctives of evangelical theology is the conviction that the Bible is the inspired Word of God.” (Boyd. 9)  If people are allowed to decide for themselves what to add and remove from the Bible, where does it stop?  If God is in fact sovereign over all things, then certainly he was sovereign over the canonization of scripture.  Mark 16 exists in all respectable translations of the Bible; it cannot be ignored.

The second problem is that if verses 9-20 were not originally a part of this book, then it is not much of a Gospel account.  If these verses are removed, then Mark fails to testify of anyone witnessing the risen Lord other than an angel.  As Paul said, “if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.” (1 Co 15:14) Tongues: Considering the Views

Interestingly, speaking in tongues was not mentioned in the Bible up until Mark 16:17 which was after the resurrection of Christ.  Then it comes up again in Acts 2 with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.  This is where a lot of confusion begins among continuationist and Cessationist.  It should be noted here that Acts 2 in no way describes the “miracle of tongues” that took place as “new”.  Jesus described the tongues as new in Mark 16:17. The tongues of Acts 2 resulted in people hearing a language that they were familiar with in their own dialect, not a new one in which that they had never heard.  The miracle of Acts 2 does not seem to appear again throughout the rest of the Bible.  Later there are other descriptions of tongues and of “praying in the Holy Spirit” but these examples do not seem to compare with Acts 2. (Jude 1:20)

In approaching this topic, it is inevitable that the book of 1 Corinthians will be considered.  Paul says in chapter 12

“Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:” (1) Later after going into detail about how all the gifts fit and function in the body he said: “If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant. Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.” (1 Co 14:37-39)

Paul clearly did not want the body to be ignorant about the gifts so he took the time to carefully explain them.  Then he declared that one of “the commandments of the Lord” was that the gifts should not be forbidden.  What right does man have to alter the commandments of God?

The Cessationist might argue that this instruction was only for the Corinthians during the early church years.  Where is that contingency stated in scripture?  If something is clearly commanded then it should also be clearly explained when it changes, otherwise people are responsible to uphold the clear instruction.  Cessationists understand this point and often they point back to chapter 13:8-10 which states:

“Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.” 

Cessationists hold the view that this passage demonstrates that the sign gifts would fail, cease, and vanish upon the completion of the scripture being interpreted as “that which is perfect”.  By eisegesis, this passage must be forced to render this interpretation, and it in no way implies this position upon a natural reading of the text.  In verse one Paul specifically references two kinds of tongues, those of men and those of angels.  He did not specify the tongues in which he was referring.  Considering the negative events that caused God to divide the tongues of men at Babel, it seems more logical to believe that Paul was saying that these tongues would cease. (Gen 11)

He also spoke of prophecies and knowledge failing or vanishing away.  This could not happen before the prophecy of Joel 2:28-32 is fulfilled.  It is not reasonable to think that Joel’s prophecy has already been fulfilled.  History does not tell of a time when the sun was darkened, and the moon turned to blood with wonders in the heavens of fire and pillars of smoke. And most certainly the day of the Lord has not yet come. (Joe 2:30, 31)

If 1 Corinthians 13:8 is compared to Joel 2:30 it becomes apparent that the anticipation of “that which is perfect” is the coming Lord himself.  Until then the church is to continue to obey the command of the Lord to forbid not the gifts.  Paul very specifically explains in Ephesians that God has gifted people i.e. “prophets…for the equipping of the saints…till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (4:12, 13)

If “that which is perfect” was somehow not to be interpreted as Jesus, the next logical interpretation would be the coming of “a perfect man” or complete body mentioned above.  Paul has clearly emphasized the necessity of the gifts working in the body of Christ for the purpose of growing into maturity.  Satan is very aware of Paul’s words and has caused discord over these gifts for the sake of keeping the church immature.

In the parable of the wheat and the tares an enemy sowed tares in the field, but the owner said “’Let both grow together until the harvest.” (Mt 13:30) This implies that Jesus will not be coming for his harvest until it grows to maturity.  The enemy is trying to keep the body of Christ immature so that he may prolong his time before Jesus returns.

In disagreement among brethren Cessationists often go so far as to argue that “Demons are capable of mimicking authentic spiritual experiences and masquerading as angels of light.” (Boyd. 223)  This idea seems totally ridiculous.  The gifts are called “sign gifts” because they are signs of faith. Jesus said, “these signs shall follow them that believe.” (Mr 16:17) If these signs promote faith in the hearts of people while Satan is the supposed author, then is he not divided against himself?  This form of accusation is nothing new; the Pharisees also accused Jesus of working his sign gifts by the power of the devil. (Lu 11:18)

In conclusion the question of whether God is currently using the sign gifts in the church is a major point of division among believers.  Continuationists believe that the Bible is clear that he is, and that they are necessary for the maturity of the body of Christ.  Cessationists believe that some of these gifts have ceased with the completion of the writing of scripture.  This view requires stringent interpretation of specific verses with much explanation to conclude.  A natural reading of the Bible will not demonstrate this position.  It should be concluded that the sign gifts are still an active part of God’s ministry, and they will continue at least until the complete fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy. (2:28-32)

Works Cited

Boyd, Gregory A. Eddy, Paul R. Across the Spectrum. Grand Rapids Michigan: Baker Academic

Publishing Group, 2006.

Strong’s Complete Greek and Hebrew Lexicon. The Bible Collection Deluxe. CD-Rom. Value

             Soft. Copyright 2002.

 The Holy Bible, Modern King James Version. The Bible Collection Deluxe. CD-Rom. Value

             Soft. Copyright 2002.

Vaprin, Nathanael . Introduction to Argumentative Fallacies. Vanderbilt University. Revised:

            6 may 2004.

            <http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~nat.vaprin/fall.html>

Writings on the Spiritual Gift of Tongues – SGP

Tongues: Considering the Views

Meta: Tongues: Considering the views

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God + Others

When the spiritual gifts truly begin to manifest in a person, your faith is at a point where you are moving from a “God + Me” state of faith to more of a “God + Others”. Your faith is much more than just rational thought or awareness of God. You have a keen awareness of Christ being at the center of your faith and the consequences not knowing Him. The death of Christ is the only means of redeeming humanity from eternal death. You understand that your past sins have been pardoned not by the good works you do but because of Jesus Christ.

When you heart changes so does your perspective. Good deeds and works are done because of your faith, not in order to gain favor with God. You understand that no amount of good deeds that you do will provide any sort of salvation. The salvation only comes through Jesus Christ. With this knowledge you have compassion for others and are moved to do good works in His name. That is the difference.

James 2:14-16 illustrates this point.

Faith and Deeds

¹⁴ What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? ¹⁵ Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. ¹⁶ If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? ¹⁷ In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. ¹⁸ But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. ¹⁹ You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. ²⁰ You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? ²¹ Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? ²² You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. ²³ And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. ²⁴ You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone. ²⁵ In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? ²⁶ As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

James 2:14-26 NIV

The manifestation of the spiritual gifts within you are a clear sign of this change in your faith journey. God provides you with a means to follow the longing in your heart to help your fellow man. It’s an activation of your faith on a higher level. Your spiritual senses are activated and directed to their proper purpose through faith. The application of the spiritual gifts in your daily life is the next step.

Still not sure what your gifts might be? Take our free online assessment now and start your journey.

Love is the Fuel

Love is the fuel of this newfound spiritual awareness and use of the spiritual gifts. Paul writes of love’s connection with the gifts in 1 Corinthians 13:

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. ³ If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. ⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ⁸ Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹ For we know in part and we prophesy in part, ¹⁰ but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. ¹¹ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. ¹² For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. ¹³ And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NIV

Consider these 3 guideposts in the application of the spiritual gifts:

Pray for Guidance

God has provided you with a spiritual gift for a specific purpose. The only way you are going to know how to use that gift is if he provides you with that answer. Earnest prayer asking God to reveal his purpose is the first and most important step.

Look for Opportunities

Keep your spiritual gift(s) forefront in your mind in your daily lives. Look for ways that you can apply your gift to assist others. Remember that the body of Christ is four walls of a church building. The body of Christ is a living, breathing organism representing all that follow Him. Do not limit your use of the gifts to only your local congregation.

Opportunities will Present Themselves

I have found in my own experience and in the experience of others that opportunities to use your gifts will manifest regularly in your lives. There are probably opportunities right in front of your eyes that you did not see before the gifts manifested in your faith journey. Keep an open mind and expect opportunities to arise.

Share Your Experiences

Please share your thoughts in the comments below on how the gifts are manifesting in your life and faith journey. Help others learn from your experiences.

Thank you!

The post Application of the Spiritual Gifts appeared first on The Spiritual Gifts Project.

In addition to the external forces, the new church in Corinth was struggling internally. The spiritual gifts were very prevalent among the members but they were being misused by some. There was internal strife and power struggles with various gifts being treated as more important. Paul addresses these items within this chapter.

Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. ² You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. ³ Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:1-4 NIV)

Paul begins this chapter by talking about how easy it is during this time to be led astray by others. In verse three, Paul emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is present in those that believe and the Holy Spirit leads us. This verse can be confusing to some degree as we all know that pretty much anyone can say the words Paul notes here. Charles Hodge in his commentary on 1 Corinthians explains this very well:

“What the apostle says, is that no man can make this acknowledgement but by the Holy Ghost. This of course does not mean that no one can utter these words unless under special divine influence; but it means that no one can truly believe and openly confess that Jesus is God manifest in the flesh unless he is enlightened by the Spirit of God.”¹ (Emphasis mine)

All Gifts from the Holy Spirit

⁴ There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. ⁵ There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. ⁶ There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. ⁷ Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. ⁸ To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, ⁹ to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, ¹⁰ to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. ¹¹ All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NIV)

In this passage, Paul begins by stating very clearly that God distributes the spiritual gifts as He sees fit. As the Greeks give various emotions and human traits to various gods in their temples, the spiritual gifts were different as they came from the one true God. There was no place for division on the origin of the gifts.

Secondly, Paul makes a very important statement in verse seven that all of the gifts are “given for the common good”. The gifts are not to be used selfishly by the person given the gift. The gifts are to be used in harmony with all followers for the greater good of the whole. He then goes on to call out many of the gifts individually and reiterate the fact that they are given by the same Holy Spirit as God wishes them to be given.

Hodge writes on these verses the following:

“They are not designed exclusively or mainly for the benefit, much less for the gratification of their recipients; but for the good of the church. Just as the power of vision is not for the benefit of the eye, but for the man. When, therefore, the gifts of God, natural or supernatural, are perverted as a means of self-exaltation or aggrandizement, it is a sin against their giver, as well as against those for whose benefit they were intended.”²

Comparison to the Human Body

¹² Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. ¹³ For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. ¹⁴ Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. ¹⁵ Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. ¹⁶ And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. ¹⁷ If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? ¹⁸ But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. ¹⁹ If they were all one part, where would the body be? ²⁰ As it is, there are many parts, but one body. (1 Corinthians 12:12-20 NIV)

The emphasis in this passage is the comparison of the human body to that of the body of Christ, the church. No one part of the human body is more important that the other and so it is with the spiritual gifts and the body of Christ. Every part of the body has a specific purpose for the whole to function correctly. Paul reminds the church that God has given the gifts as He wanted to give them, and there is no gift more important than another.

All Spiritual Gifts are Important

²¹ The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” ²² On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, ²³ and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, ²⁴ while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, ²⁵ so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. ²⁶ If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1 Corinthians 12:21-26 NIV)

Paul continues with his analogy of the human body and the church body in this passage. He makes it clear that even though you may see your gift as “weaker” or less desirable than others, it is just as important to the functioning of the whole body as the gift that may seem more important. Roy Laurin in his book First Corinthians – Where Life Matures writes about the gifts that may be less visible: “A steel truss in a building supports its roof, yet is not sen. Without the truss the roof would be impossible.”³ This is so true relating to the gifts that may be seen as not as important as others. Without them nothing would get done.

Greater Gifts

²⁷ Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. ²⁸ And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. ²⁹ Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹ Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. (1 Corinthians 12:27-31)

Now you might be saying to yourself “Wait a minute – Jeff just got through writing about how no gift is more important than another one, and here is Paul talking about the ‘greater gifts’!” That’s right – I did, and I still feel that way although this passage seems to contradict that. What Paul is calling out here are not that some gifts are “better” than others, but they are “greater”. To me, greater is describing the responsibility the gift carries with it, not some sort of perceived stature of the gift. We will discuss the greater gifts in later posts.

I hope that this brief study of 1 Corinthians 12 has helped you understand the spiritual gifts and their purpose. In my next post we will study the spiritual gifts noted in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians.

1. Hodge, Charles, A Commentary of 1&2 Corinthians, Versa Press Inc., East Peoria, IL, 1964, p.241
2. Hodge, Charles, A Commentary of 1&2 Corinthians, Versa Press Inc., East Peoria, IL, 1964, p. 243-244
3. Laurin, Roy L., First Corinthians – Where Life Matures, Dunham Publishing Company, Findlay, OH, 1950 p. 226

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