How does 1 Corinthians 12:30 connect with Romans 12:6-8 on spiritual gifts? Reading the two passages together “Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?” “We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If someone’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” What 1 Corinthians 12:30 underscores • The verse is framed as three rapid-fire rhetorical questions. • Each expects the same obvious answer: No, not everyone has every gift. • Paul’s aim is to correct the idea that one gift—especially tongues—defines true spirituality. • The context (vv. 29-31) lists several gifts in parallel, making clear diversity is God’s design. How Romans 12:6-8 dovetails with that message • Paul again lists gifts, but emphasizes how each believer should exercise his or her own gift “according to the grace given.” • Instead of asking questions, he issues gentle commands: “let him teach … let him serve … let him lead.” • The focus is positive use, not comparison. Variety is assumed and celebrated. Shared truths in both passages • Same source: “one and the same Spirit” (1 Colossians 12:11) / “grace given us” (Romans 12:6). • Same purpose: build up the body, not elevate the individual (1 Colossians 12:7; Romans 12:5). • Same conclusion: diversity within unity. No single gift, office, or ministry is universal. Key links to other scriptures • 1 Corinthians 12:11—The Spirit “apportions to each one as He determines.” • 1 Corinthians 14:12—“Since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel in building up the church.” • Ephesians 4:7, 11-13—Christ gives varied gifts to equip the saints. • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” Implications for believers today • Expect variety. Seeking the same gift for everyone ignores God’s stated plan. • Value every role. A teacher, server, giver, or mercy-shower is as Spirit-empowered as a tongue-speaker or healer. • Discover and deploy. Identify the gift God has entrusted, then “let him” or “let her” use it wholeheartedly. • Guard unity. Diversity of gifts is intended to strengthen, not divide, the body of Christ. |
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