1 Corinthians 12:28

KJV

And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532}{G3739} God {G2316} hath set {G5087} some {G3303} in {G1722} the church {G1577}, first {G4412} apostles {G652}, secondarily {G1208} prophets {G4396}, thirdly {G5154} teachers {G1320}, after that {G1899} miracles {G1411}, then {G1534} gifts {G5486} of healings {G2386}, helps {G484}, governments {G2941}, diversities {G1085} of tongues {G1100}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And God has placed in the Messianic Community first, emissaries; second, prophets; third, teachers; then those who work miracles; then those with gifts of healing; those with ability to help; those skilled in administration; and those who speak in various tongues.

Berean Standard Bible

And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues.

American Standard Version

And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, divers kinds of tongues.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
God's sovereign establishment of various spiritual gifts and ministries within the Christian church, detailing a specific enumeration of foundational roles like apostles, prophets, and teachers, followed by miraculous manifestations such as miracles and gifts of healings, and practical ministries including helps, governments, and diversities of tongues. This verse underscores the divine origin and diverse nature of spiritual endowments, all purposed for the edification and effective functioning of the Body of Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal statement within Paul's extensive discourse on spiritual gifts in [1 Corinthians 12-14](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - The Unity and Diversity of Spiritual Gifts"). Preceding [1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church"), Paul emphasizes the unity of the Spirit despite the diversity of gifts, using the powerful analogy of the human body in [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ Analogy"). He asserts that just as a body has many members, each with a unique function, so too the church, as the Body of Christ, comprises diverse members endowed with different gifts by the same Spirit. [Verse 28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") then serves as a concrete enumeration, providing examples of the "members" and their "functions" within this divine organism, transitioning from the general principle of diversity to specific roles and manifestations.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a vibrant but problematic community, marked by spiritual fervor, yet also by divisions, pride, and misuse of spiritual gifts, particularly tongues. Some members elevated certain gifts (like speaking in tongues) above others, leading to disorder and a sense of superiority or inferiority among believers. Paul writes to correct these abuses, restore order, and promote unity and love. In the Greco-Roman world, various cults and philosophical schools often featured ecstatic experiences, and the Corinthians may have been influenced by these, misinterpreting true spiritual manifestations. Paul's emphasis on "order" and "edification" ([1 Corinthians 14:26](/1_corinthians/14-26 "1 Corinthians 14:26 - Order in Worship")) directly addresses the chaotic worship services and the competitive spirit prevalent in Corinth.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") contributes significantly to several key themes within [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians "1 Corinthians - Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians"). Foremost is the **Divine Sovereignty and Appointment** of gifts, highlighted by the phrase "God hath set some in the church," emphasizing that these roles are not self-appointed but divinely ordained. Another crucial theme is the **Diversity in Unity** of the church, where various gifts and ministries, though distinct, are all essential for the health and growth of the single Body of Christ, echoing the principle in [1 Corinthians 12:4-6](/1_corinthians/12-4-6 "1 Corinthians 12:4-6 - Diversity of Gifts, Unity of Spirit"). The verse also subtly introduces the theme of **Order and Edification**, as the listing implies a structured, purposeful arrangement of ministries designed to build up the church, rather than cause chaos or division, a concept further developed in [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Prophecy and Tongues").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **set (Greek, _títhēmi'_):** (G5087) This verb signifies a deliberate, purposeful placement or appointment. It conveys God's active and intentional role in establishing the various ministries and gifts within the church. It is not a haphazard distribution but a sovereign, ordered arrangement, emphasizing divine design over human initiative or ambition.
* **church (Greek, _ekklēsía'_):** (G1577) Derived from a compound meaning "a calling out," this term refers to a popular assembly, specifically a religious congregation. In the New Testament, it denotes the community of Christian believers, whether local or universal. Its use here underscores that these gifts are given for the benefit and functioning of this divinely called-out assembly, the Body of Christ.
* **governments (Greek, _kybérnēsis'_):** (G2941) This unique term, derived from a word relating to "piloting" or "steering a ship," refers to the gift of directorship, administration, or wise guidance. It highlights the necessity of leadership and organizational ability within the church to navigate its affairs, ensure order, and direct its mission effectively, much like a pilot guides a vessel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And God hath set some in the church":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and authority behind the distribution of spiritual gifts and ministries. It is God Himself who actively and intentionally places individuals and their corresponding endowments within the community of believers, underscoring His sovereignty over the church's structure and function.
* **"first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers":** Paul begins with what appear to be foundational and authoritative roles, indicating a certain order or priority. Apostles were those specially "sent" by Christ, often eyewitnesses of His resurrection, foundational to the church's establishment. Prophets were inspired speakers who "forth-told" God's message, providing divine insight and instruction. Teachers were gifted in explaining and applying God's Word, ensuring sound doctrine and understanding. This sequence suggests a progression of foundational authority and instruction.
* **"after that miracles, then gifts of healings":** Following the foundational leadership and teaching roles, Paul lists miraculous manifestations. "Miracles" (dýnamis) refers to mighty works or displays of divine power, while "gifts of healings" (chárisma íama) specifically denotes the supernatural ability to restore health. These demonstrate God's active presence and power within the church, validating the divine message and bringing relief.
* **"helps, governments, diversities of tongues":** The list concludes with practical and diverse ministries. "Helps" (antílēpsis) refers to acts of practical assistance, support, and aid to others, highlighting the importance of service-oriented ministries. "Governments" (kybérnēsis) signifies the gift of administration, leadership, or wise guidance in managing the church's affairs. "Diversities of tongues" (génos glōssa) refers to various kinds or types of languages, often miraculous speech in unknown human languages or divine utterances, a gift Paul addresses further in [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Prophecy and Tongues"). This final grouping emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's provision for the church's spiritual, practical, and administrative needs.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Enumeration** in [1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") to provide a clear, albeit not exhaustive, list of the diverse ministries and spiritual gifts God has established in the church. The use of **Ordinal Numbers** ("first," "secondarily," "thirdly") suggests a hierarchical or foundational order, implying that certain roles (apostles, prophets, teachers) were primary in the establishment and instruction of the early church, while other gifts followed in sequence of importance or manifestation. This structured listing serves as a practical application of the broader **Analogy of the Body of Christ** presented earlier in the chapter, demonstrating how different "parts" (gifts/ministries) contribute to the whole. The verse also implicitly uses **Metonymy**, where the "gifts" stand for the individuals who possess and exercise them, emphasizing that these are not merely abstract abilities but active functions performed by members within the community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") profoundly illustrates God's sovereign design for His church, emphasizing that its structure and function are divinely ordained, not humanly contrived. The diversity of gifts listed, from leadership and teaching to miraculous manifestations and practical service, underscores the comprehensive provision God makes for the church's health, growth, and mission. This divine appointment ensures that the church is equipped to fulfill its purpose in the world, reflecting God's wisdom and power through its various members working in unity. The theological implication is that every believer, regardless of their specific gifting, plays a vital role in the Body of Christ, and all gifts, whether seemingly "greater" or "lesser," are essential and interdependent.

* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6-8 "Romans 12:6-8 - Diverse Gifts for Service")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for Equipping the Saints")
* [1 Peter 4:10-11](/1_peter/4-10-11 "1 Peter 4:10-11 - Stewards of God's Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") serves as a powerful reminder that the church is not merely a human organization but a divine organism, purposefully designed and empowered by God Himself. For contemporary believers, this means recognizing that God continues to sovereignly place individuals within the church body with diverse gifts and callings for His purposes. We are called to value every role, understanding that each gift, whether prominent or behind-the-scenes, is essential for the holistic functioning and vitality of the church. This understanding should foster humility, discourage comparison or competition, and promote a spirit of mutual dependence and collaboration. It challenges us to prayerfully discern our own spiritual gifting and actively seek opportunities to deploy them for the common good and the edification of the Body of Christ, contributing to the church's mission with diligence and love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's sovereign "setting" of gifts impact your view of your own role or the roles of others in the church?**
* **Which of the gifts listed in [1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") do you see most evidently at work in your local church today, and how are they contributing to its health?**
* **In what ways can a church community better affirm and utilize the full spectrum of gifts God has placed within it, moving beyond a focus on only a few visible ministries?**

### FAQ
**Are the gifts listed in [1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") still active in the church today?**

Answer: While there is theological debate on the continuation of all "sign gifts" (like apostleship in its foundational sense, and some aspects of prophecy and tongues), many scholars and denominations believe that the Holy Spirit continues to empower believers with a variety of gifts for the edification of the church. Gifts like teaching, helps, and governments are clearly ongoing. The miraculous gifts (miracles, healings, tongues) are also seen by many as continuing, though their manifestation and interpretation may vary. Paul's emphasis throughout [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - The Unity and Diversity of Spiritual Gifts") is on the Spirit's sovereign distribution of gifts as He wills ([1 Corinthians 12:11](/1_corinthians/12-11 "1 Corinthians 12:11 - The Spirit Distributes Gifts")), suggesting that their presence is tied to His ongoing work in the church.

**Does the order "first, secondarily, thirdly" imply a hierarchy of importance for these gifts?**

Answer: While the ordinal numbering ("first," "secondarily," "thirdly") suggests a certain order, it's generally understood to indicate a foundational or logical sequence rather than a strict hierarchy of value. Apostles, prophets, and teachers were foundational to the establishment and instruction of the early church. All gifts are essential for the body to function, as Paul emphasizes in the body analogy ([1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ Analogy")). The "more excellent way" is love ([1 Corinthians 12:31](/1_corinthians/12-31 "1 Corinthians 12:31 - The More Excellent Way")), which is superior to any gift. Therefore, while some gifts may have greater public visibility or foundational significance, none are inherently "more important" in terms of their necessity for the church's overall health and mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 12:28](/1_corinthians/12-28 "1 Corinthians 12:28 - God's Divine Appointments in the Church") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the reality that all spiritual gifts and ministries are given by God through the Holy Spirit to build up the Body of Christ, of which Jesus Himself is the Head ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")). The very purpose of these diverse endowments is to equip the saints for the work of ministry, leading to the maturity and unity of faith, "unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ" ([Ephesians 4:11-13](/ephesians/4-11-13 "Ephesians 4:11-13 - Gifts for Equipping and Unity")). Jesus, as the perfect embodiment of all divine wisdom and power, is the supreme Apostle, Prophet, and Teacher, fulfilling these roles perfectly in His earthly ministry ([Hebrews 3:1](/hebrews/3-1 "Hebrews 3:1 - Christ, the Apostle and High Priest"), [Luke 24:19](/luke/24-19 "Luke 24:19 - Jesus, a Prophet Mighty in Word and Deed"), [Matthew 7:29](/matthew/7-29 "Matthew 7:29 - Jesus Teaches with Authority")). His miracles demonstrated the kingdom of God breaking into the world ([Matthew 11:4-5](/matthew/11-4-5 "Matthew 11:4-5 - Jesus' Works Confirm His Identity")), and His ultimate act of "helps" was laying down His life for humanity ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). The "governments" within the church ultimately reflect the wise and just governance of Christ, the King of kings ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). Thus, every gift listed serves to manifest Christ's ongoing work in the world, drawing believers into deeper conformity with His character and advancing His kingdom until He returns in glory ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ is the Head of the Body")).

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

Ephesians 4:11

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Ephesians 4:13

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Romans 12:6

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

Romans 12:8

Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Corinthians 12:18

But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1 Corinthians 12:7

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

1 Corinthians 12:11

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