How does 1 Corinthians 12:7 define the purpose of spiritual gifts in believers? The Verse in Focus 1 Corinthians 12:7: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” Four Key Phrases Unpacked • “to each one” – Spiritual gifts are universal among believers; no follower of Christ is overlooked. • “manifestation of the Spirit” – Each gift is a visible, tangible expression of the Holy Spirit at work. • “is given” – Gifts are not earned; they are graciously bestowed by God. • “for the common good” – The central purpose: the benefit of the entire body of Christ, not personal prestige. Purpose Illustrated Throughout Scripture • 1 Corinthians 12:14-27 – Paul’s body analogy shows every part working so the whole body thrives. • Ephesians 4:11-13 – Apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherd-teachers are “to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ.” • Romans 12:4-8 – Diverse gifts (prophecy, service, teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, mercy) function “in proportion to our faith” for mutual edification. • 1 Peter 4:10 – “As good stewards of God’s varied grace, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” • Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-35 – Early believers share resources and minister through Spirit-empowered unity, leading to growth and favor. Practical Takeaways • Gifts are tools, not trophies. • Serving others is the God-ordained context in which gifts flourish. • When every believer exercises his or her gift, the church matures, truth is protected, and love is displayed. • Self-focused use of gifts contradicts their divinely stated purpose and grieves the Spirit (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Ephesians 4:30). • The Spirit sovereignly distributes gifts (1 Corinthians 12:11), ensuring the body lacks nothing essential. Summing Up the Purpose Spiritual gifts exist so that, through each Spirit-empowered believer, the whole church is strengthened, unified, and equipped to reflect Christ to the world—“for the common good.” |
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