1 Corinthians 12:23

KJV

And those [members] of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely [parts] have more abundant comeliness.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} those {G3739} members of the body {G4983}, which we think {G1380} to be {G1511} less honourable {G820}, upon these {G5125} we bestow {G4060} more abundant {G4055} honour {G5092}; and {G2532} our {G2257} uncomely {G809} parts have {G2192} more abundant {G4055} comeliness {G2157}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and upon body parts which we consider less dignified we bestow greater dignity; and the parts that aren’t attractive are the ones we make as attractive as we can,

Berean Standard Bible

and the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor. And our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty,

American Standard Version

and those parts of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 12:23 profoundly illustrates God's counter-cultural design for the church, likening it to a human body where those members typically considered less honorable or uncomely are intentionally given greater esteem and care. This verse highlights a divine principle that challenges human tendencies to value outward appearance or prominent roles, asserting instead that true honor and comeliness are bestowed upon the less visible parts, ensuring mutual respect, interdependence, and the holistic well-being of the entire community of believers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's comprehensive discourse on spiritual gifts and the unity of the church in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts and the Body of Christ"). Following his foundational declaration in [1 Corinthians 12:12](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12 - The Body of Christ Analogy") that "as the body is one, and hath many members," Paul elaborates on the necessity of every member, countering the Corinthian church's tendency to elevate certain gifts (like speaking in tongues) while devaluing others. Verses [1 Corinthians 12:14-22](/1_corinthians/12-14-22 "1 Corinthians 12:14-22 - No Part is Insignificant") establish that no part of the body, however seemingly insignificant, can say it has no need of another. Verse 23 then builds upon this, demonstrating God's intentional design to bestow special honor on these "less honourable" parts, leading into the conclusion that all parts should have the same care for one another ([1 Corinthians 12:25](/1_corinthians/12-25 "1 Corinthians 12:25 - Mutual Care in the Body")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was plagued by divisions, pride, and a hierarchical mindset, partly influenced by the surrounding Greco-Roman culture which highly valued public display, eloquence, and social status. Within this context, certain spiritual gifts, particularly those that were outwardly impressive or audible, were likely seen as more prestigious. Paul's analogy of the body directly confronts this cultural bias, challenging believers to adopt a counter-cultural perspective rooted in divine wisdom. Unlike the world, which often discards or ignores the weak and unimpressive, God's design elevates them, reflecting a kingdom value system where the last shall be first and the humble are exalted. This also stands in contrast to the philosophical schools of the day, which often emphasized intellectual elitism.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 12:23](/1_corinthians/12-23 "1 Corinthians 12:23 - Honoring the Less Honorable") contributes significantly to several major theological themes. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Wisdom and Design**, revealing God's deliberate and counter-intuitive plan for community where perceived weakness is given strength and dignity. Secondly, it champions **Mutual Honor and Interdependence**, calling believers to actively value and care for one another, especially those who might be marginalized or serve in less visible roles, thereby fostering true unity. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God's care for the humble and lowly, as seen in passages like [Psalm 113:7-8](/psalms/113-7-8 "Psalm 113:7-8 - God Lifts the Poor"). Thirdly, the verse reinforces the concept of **Unity in Diversity**, demonstrating that the health and effectiveness of the entire body of Christ depend on the recognition and proper functioning of every single member, regardless of their perceived status or outward "comeliness."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **less honourable (Greek, _átimos'_):** Derived from a negative particle and the word for "honor," this term signifies "unhonored," "dishonored," or "held in less esteem." In the context of the body, it refers to parts that are not typically displayed or celebrated, such as internal organs or private parts, which are essential but not outwardly glorious. Metaphorically, it points to church members whose contributions might be overlooked or undervalued by human standards.
* **bestow (Greek, _peritíthēmi'_):** This verb literally means "to place around" or "to put about." By implication, it means "to present" or "to confer." Paul uses it to describe a deliberate, intentional act of giving or investing honor. It's not a passive recognition but an active, conscious effort to dignify and elevate.
* **comeliness (Greek, _euschēmosýnē'_):** Meaning "decorousness," "propriety," or "gracefulness," this word refers to the quality of being presentable or seemly. In the context of the body, "uncomely parts" (from _aschḗmōn_, meaning "unpresentable" or "indecent") are given "more abundant comeliness" through covering or protection, which lends them dignity and respect. Spiritually, it speaks to the intrinsic worth and beauty that God confers upon all His children, especially those we might deem "uncomely" in a worldly sense.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And those [members] of the body, which we think to be less honourable":** This clause introduces the subject of Paul's counter-cultural principle. It refers to the parts of the human body that are not typically exposed or celebrated, perhaps even considered "shameful" in a societal sense (e.g., internal organs, reproductive organs). The phrase "we think to be" (from _dokéō_, "to think, to seem") highlights a human perception or judgment, implying that this "less honorable" status is a human construct, not a divine one. Paul is challenging the Corinthians' (and our own) natural inclination to value outward appearance or visible function over intrinsic worth.
* **"upon these we bestow more abundant honour":** Here, Paul reveals the divine reversal of human values. Instead of neglecting or hiding these less esteemed parts, we are called to actively "bestow" (from _peritíthēmi_, "to place around," "to confer") "more abundant honour" (from _perissóteros timḗ_, "more exceeding honor"). This is a deliberate, intentional act of dignifying and valuing. In the church, it means actively recognizing, appreciating, and elevating those members whose contributions might be unseen, quiet, or deemed less significant by worldly metrics, ensuring they feel deeply valued and respected.
* **"and our uncomely [parts] have more abundant comeliness":** This second part of the verse reiterates and expands on the same principle. "Uncomely" (from _aschḗmōn_, "unpresentable," "indecent") refers to parts that we instinctively cover for modesty or protection. Paul states that these parts "have" (from _échō_, "to possess") "more abundant comeliness" (from _perissóteros euschēmosýnē_, "more exceeding decorousness"). This "comeliness" is not inherent in their outward appearance but is conferred upon them through the act of covering, clothing, or protecting them, which gives them a special dignity and propriety. Spiritually, it means that the church, by intentionally caring for and dignifying its "uncomely" or vulnerable members, brings out a profound beauty and integrity that surpasses mere outward appearance.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's masterful use of **Analogy** is central to this verse, extending the metaphor of the human body to the church. By comparing the diverse and interdependent functions of bodily organs to the varied roles and gifts within the Christian community, he makes abstract theological concepts relatable and concrete. The verse also employs **Paradox**, presenting a counter-intuitive truth: that which is "less honourable" or "uncomely" is precisely that upon which "more abundant honour" and "more abundant comeliness" are bestowed. This paradoxical statement challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the divine wisdom that operates contrary to human judgment. Furthermore, there is an element of **Antithesis** as Paul contrasts human perception ("we think to be less honourable") with divine design and appropriate human action ("upon these we bestow more abundant honour"), emphasizing the radical shift in values required within the body of Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Corinthians 12:23 unveils a profound theological truth about God's valuing of all humanity, particularly within the redeemed community. It asserts that God's design for His church is one of radical inclusivity and counter-cultural honor. Unlike the world, which often elevates the strong, the beautiful, and the publicly acclaimed, God intentionally dignifies and empowers the seemingly weaker, less visible, or even "uncomely" members. This principle flows from the very nature of God, who consistently demonstrates His strength through weakness and chooses the humble to confound the proud. It is a testament to divine grace, ensuring that no one feels insignificant or dispensable in the body of Christ, and that the church's unity is built on mutual esteem rather than competitive striving. This divine valuation also serves as a model for how believers are to interact with one another, reflecting God's own impartial love and care.

* [Romans 12:3](/romans/12-3 "Romans 12:3 - Humility in Gifts")
* [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3-4 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Humility and Looking to Others' Interests")
* [Matthew 20:26-28](/matthew/20-26-28 "Matthew 20:26-28 - Greatness Through Service")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For contemporary believers and the church, 1 Corinthians 12:23 serves as a powerful call to radical self-examination and intentional action. It challenges us to critically assess our own biases and the subtle ways we might inadvertently devalue or overlook members of our spiritual community. Are we quick to celebrate the visible leaders and gifted speakers, while neglecting those who serve faithfully in quiet, behind-the-scenes roles? Do we extend genuine honor and care to the vulnerable, the marginalized, the sick, or those whose contributions might not fit conventional measures of success? This verse compels us to cultivate a culture of deep appreciation for every single member, recognizing that the true beauty and strength of the church lie in its holistic health, where every part is not only tolerated but actively honored and cherished. Living out this truth transforms the church into a vibrant reflection of God's inclusive love, fostering a community where every individual feels seen, valued, and indispensable.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my church community, unconsciously devalue certain members or ministries?**
* **Who are the "less honourable" or "uncomely" parts of my local church body, and how can I intentionally bestow more abundant honor and comeliness upon them?**
* **How does embracing this principle of honoring the overlooked challenge my own understanding of significance and success, both within and outside the church?**

### FAQ
**Does "less honourable" refer to specific people or just roles?**

Answer: While Paul uses the analogy of body parts, the application is clearly to people within the church. "Less honourable" refers to individuals or groups whose gifts, roles, or circumstances might lead them to be overlooked, undervalued, or even marginalized by human standards. This could include those serving in quiet, unseen ministries, those with perceived weaknesses or disabilities, or those lacking social status or outward charisma. The point is that God's design ensures that these members, who might be considered "less honorable" by the world, are precisely the ones upon whom the church is to bestow "more abundant honour," demonstrating a divine reversal of values. This principle applies to any member who might feel insignificant or unappreciated.

**How does this verse relate to humility and pride in the church?**

Answer: This verse directly confronts pride and cultivates humility. Pride often manifests in elevating oneself or certain gifts while devaluing others, leading to division and a sense of superiority. By commanding believers to bestow "more abundant honour" on the "less honourable" parts, Paul calls for a radical humility that mirrors Christ's own self-emptying love. It challenges the natural human tendency to seek recognition for oneself and instead encourages a focus on elevating others, especially those who might not receive public acclaim. This fosters an environment where humility is celebrated, and the focus shifts from individual glory to the collective well-being and honor of the entire body, as seen in [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3-4 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Humility and Valuing Others").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Corinthians 12:23 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the divine embodiment of this principle, perfectly demonstrating how God bestows abundant honor upon the "less honourable" and "uncomely." Christ, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). He deliberately associated with the marginalized, the sick, the outcasts, and those deemed "unclean" by society, bestowing upon them dignity, healing, and inclusion. His ministry consistently elevated the humble and challenged the proud, epitomized by His teaching that "the last shall be first" ([Matthew 20:16](/matthew/20-16 "Matthew 20:16 - The Last Shall Be First")). Furthermore, on the cross, Christ, who was "despised and rejected by men" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")), became the ultimate "uncomely" part, bearing the shame and sin of humanity. Yet, through this very act of self-abasement and apparent dishonor, God bestowed upon Him "the name that is above every name" ([Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - Christ's Exaltation")), thus demonstrating that true glory and honor are found not in outward display but in humble, self-sacrificial love for the sake of others. The church, as Christ's body, is called to mirror this divine pattern, extending Christ's radical love and honor to every member, especially those the world would dismiss.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 3:21

¶ Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

Genesis 3:7

And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they [were] naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.