1 Corinthians 12:1-7

1: Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware.
2: You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led.
3: Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is accursed”; and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

4: Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5: And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord.
6: There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.
7: But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

*** 

Paul moved on to the next topic regarding spiritual gifts. He laid the groundwork by saying he didn’t want them to be unaware, or ignorant, of these gifts. It was important that they properly understood them, as it is for us today as well.

He mentioned the idols they worshiped before becoming Christians. Mute idols—unable to speak—which is a complete contrast to the living God we serve who does speak. Since Paul was addressing how the Spirit of God speaks and moves among His people through gifts in His people, he clarified that no one speaking by the Spirit of God can curse Jesus. No one can acknowledge His lordship and say He is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. This is a guideline for judging whether a person is speaking by the Spirit of God or not.

Jesus Himself said the Spirit from the Father—the Spirit of truth—would testify about Him. He would glorify Jesus and disclose to His people what is His, and what is to come (John 15:26, 16:13-15). Anything that turns a person away from Jesus, dishonors Him, or tries to refute His lordship is not from the Spirit of God.

Paul laid this important foundation first and then went on to explain more. There are varieties of gifts, ministries, and effects, but it is the same Spirit, Lord, and God working through His people. We see the full function of the Godhead operating. The gifts themselves, the administration of them, and their actual effects, is the work of God through His people. We need to allow for the variety of gifts and various expressions of them, realizing that these variations are legitimate, yet not depart from the Spirit of God getting off into error.

There is a learning process involved for people to identify and properly function in the gifts they’ve been given. We need to be patient with each other while at the same time watching out for error, helping each other. These gifts are a way God has chosen to speak to us and move among us, which we should accept and be thankful for. Each person is given gifts –manifestations of the Holy Spirit—for the common good. They are to benefit the church, not for any personal glory or gain.


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