1 Corinthians 12:11

But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

But {G1161} all {G3956} these {G5023} worketh {G1754} that one {G1520} and {G2532} the selfsame {G846} Spirit {G4151}, dividing {G1244} to every man {G1538} severally {G2398} as {G2531} he will {G1014}.

One and the same Spirit is at work in all these things, distributing to each person as he chooses.

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, who apportions them to each one as He determines.

but all these worketh the one and the same Spirit, dividing to each one severally even as he will.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 12:11 (KJV) is a pivotal verse in Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts, emphasizing the singular source and sovereign distribution of these diverse abilities within the church.

Context

This verse immediately follows a list of various spiritual gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, tongues, and interpretation of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:8-10). It serves as a concluding statement for that list before Paul transitions into the analogy of the church as the body of Christ, highlighting the unity amidst the diversity. The Corinthian church struggled with division and potentially elevating certain gifts over others, making this emphasis on the single source crucial.

Key Themes

  • Unity of the Spirit: All the different gifts originate from the same Holy Spirit, reinforcing the unity of believers despite their varied functions.
  • Diversity of Gifts: The Spirit intentionally distributes different gifts to different individuals, ensuring the body has all necessary parts.
  • Sovereignty of the Spirit: The distribution of gifts is not random, based on human desire, or earned, but is entirely according to the Spirit's divine will and purpose.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "that one and the selfsame Spirit" translates the Greek to auto pneuma, strongly emphasizing the singular identity of the Holy Spirit as the source of all gifts. "Dividing to every man severally as he will" uses the Greek words diairoun (dividing, distributing) and kathos bouletai (just as he wills or purposes). This highlights the deliberate, sovereign nature of the Spirit's work in equipping each believer uniquely according to his will, not based on human preference or merit.

Connections and Cross-References

This verse aligns with other New Testament passages that discuss the distribution and purpose of spiritual gifts, such as Romans 12:3-8 and Ephesians 4:7-13, which also emphasize diversity, unity, and divine distribution. It underscores the Spirit's active role in the church, mirroring the work of God the Father and Jesus Christ in building up believers. The concept of gifts being for the common good is introduced earlier in the chapter (1 Corinthians 12:7).

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse serves as a reminder to recognize that any spiritual ability or gift they possess comes directly from the Holy Spirit. It encourages humility, knowing that gifts are not earned but given by grace. It also fosters appreciation for the diverse gifts present in the church, understanding that each is a vital contribution appointed by the Spirit for the building up of the body. Trusting the Spirit's wisdom in gifting helps prevent comparison, envy, or pride regarding spiritual abilities.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 12:4 (7 votes)

    Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

  • Hebrews 2:4 (6 votes)

    God also bearing [them] witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?

  • 2 Corinthians 10:13 (5 votes)

    But we will not boast of things without [our] measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

  • Ephesians 4:7 (4 votes)

    But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:6 (3 votes)

    And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

  • John 3:27 (2 votes)

    John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.

  • James 1:18 (2 votes)

    Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.