1 Corinthians 12:6

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

And {G2532} there are {G1526} diversities {G1243} of operations {G1755}, but {G1161} it is {G2076} the same {G846} God {G2316} which {G3588} worketh {G1754} all {G3956} in {G1722} all {G3956}.

And there are different modes of working, but it is the same God working them all in everyone.

There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people.

And there are diversities of workings, but the same God, who worketh all things in all.

1 Corinthians 12:6 is a profound statement emphasizing the unity of God amidst the rich variety of spiritual manifestations within the church. It highlights God's singular role as the ultimate source and orchestrator of all divine workings.

Context

This verse is part of a larger discourse in 1 Corinthians Chapter 12, where the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church concerning spiritual gifts. The Corinthians, perhaps struggling with pride or misunderstanding, were creating divisions based on differing manifestations of the Spirit. Paul systematically explains that while there are "diversities of gifts" (verse 4) and "differences of administrations" (verse 5), the source of all these is one and the same God. Verse 6 specifically focuses on the "diversities of operations," reinforcing this foundational truth about God's comprehensive work.

Key Themes

  • Unity in Diversity: The verse powerfully asserts that despite the myriad ways God works through believers, the ultimate source and power is always one God. This principle fosters harmony and discourages competition within the body of Christ.
  • Divine Sovereignty: "It is the same God which worketh all in all" underscores God's absolute control and active involvement in every spiritual manifestation and outcome. He is not merely a distant observer but the active agent behind all effective ministry, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled.
  • God's Comprehensive Activity: The phrase "all in all" signifies that God's work is complete and pervasive. He is at work in every believer, in every gift, and in every outcome, for His purposes and for the common good of the church.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek term translated as "operations" is energēmata (ἐνεργήματα), which refers to the actual workings, effects, or accomplishments of divine power. It highlights the dynamic results or outcomes of God's activity. The verb "worketh" comes from energeō (ἐνεργέω), meaning to be active, effective, or to produce results. This emphasizes God's continuous and forceful action. The repetition of the root word underscores the active, powerful nature of God's involvement in all spiritual manifestations. The phrase "all in all" (panta en pasin) further stresses the comprehensive scope of God's work, permeating every aspect and every individual within the church.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 12:6 serves as a vital reminder to focus on God as the ultimate source of all spiritual power and effectiveness. It promotes humility, as any success or impact is ultimately attributed to God's working, not human ability alone. It encourages unity and mutual respect within the church, recognizing that diverse ministries and gifts are all part of God's singular plan. Instead of comparing or competing, believers are called to celebrate the various ways God manifests His power, understanding that He "worketh all in all" for His glory and the edification of His people. This verse helps to prevent pride in one's own gifts and envy of others, fostering a healthy, interdependent community focused on God's will and purpose.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:11

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

  • John 5:17

    ¶ But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:7

    So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

  • Ephesians 4:6

    One God and Father of all, who [is] above all, and through all, and in you all.

  • Colossians 3:11

    Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.

  • Colossians 1:29

    Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

  • Philippians 2:13

    For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.
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