What does "common good" mean in the context of 1 Corinthians 12:7? Setting the Context “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7) Paul is mid-discussion about spiritual gifts. The Spirit distributes gifts to every believer, but His purpose runs deeper than individual experience. He targets the shared life of the church. Unpacking the Phrase “Common Good” • Greek term: sympheron—something that “brings together” or “carries together” for benefit • Picture a body whose parts cooperate so the whole thrives (1 Corinthians 12:12-26) • Emphasis is corporate, not private; gifts are entrusted to me but meant for us Spiritual Gifts Are Community Gifts • They build up faith and knowledge (Ephesians 4:12-13) • They strengthen unity and love (Colossians 2:2) • They protect from false teaching (Ephesians 4:14) • They advance gospel witness by displaying Christ’s life through His people (Acts 4:33) Scripture Echoes • 1 Corinthians 14:12—“Since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel in gifts that build up the church.” • 1 Corinthians 14:26—“Let all things be done for edification.” • Romans 12:4-5—Many members, one body, “members of one another.” • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” • Galatians 6:10—“Let us do good to everyone, especially to those who belong to the household of faith.” Practical Implications for Today • Serve, do not showcase • Measure ministry by growth in others, not applause for self • Seek opportunities where your gift meets another’s need • Welcome and encourage every member’s contribution • Guard against envy or superiority; both destroy the common good Signs of the Common Good at Work • A congregation marked by increasing love and mutual care • Believers maturing in truth and character • The weak supported, the strong humbled, Christ exalted • Outsiders noticing a tangible expression of God’s kingdom The Spirit gifts each believer so that all believers flourish together. That is the common good Paul celebrates. |
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