1 Corinthians 12:7

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

But {G1161} the manifestation {G5321} of the Spirit {G4151} is given {G1325} to every man {G1538} to {G4314} profit withal {G4851}.

Moreover, to each person is given the particular manifestation of the Spirit that will be for the common good.

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.

But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit to profit withal.

1 Corinthians 12:7 serves as a foundational statement regarding the purpose and distribution of spiritual gifts within the Christian community. It highlights that the active presence and power of the Holy Spirit are given to every believer, not for personal gain or self-exaltation, but for the collective benefit and edification of the entire church.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's extensive teaching on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14. The Corinthian church was experiencing significant issues, including divisions and a misunderstanding or misuse of spiritual manifestations. Some members might have valued certain gifts over others, leading to pride or inferiority. Paul addresses these problems by emphasizing the unity of the Spirit, the diversity of gifts, and their common purpose. He aims to correct their perspective, reminding them that all gifts originate from the same Spirit and are intended to build up the body of Christ, not to create hierarchy or division.

Key Themes

  • Divine Empowerment: The phrase "manifestation of the Spirit" underscores that these abilities are not natural talents but supernatural workings of the Holy Spirit, making God's presence evident.
  • Universal Distribution: "Given to every man" (or every believer) emphasizes that no one in the body of Christ is left without a Spirit-given capacity for service. It’s a universal endowment for all who belong to Christ, affirming that each member has a vital role.
  • Corporate Purpose: The crucial phrase "to profit withal" (KJV) or "for the common good" (NIV/ESV) highlights the ultimate goal of these gifts. They are not for personal display or individual benefit, but for the mutual edification, strengthening, and growth of the entire community. This aligns with Paul's later emphasis on love as the greatest gift, which always seeks the good of others.
  • Unity in Diversity: Though the gifts are diverse (as detailed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10), their source is one (the Spirit) and their purpose is unified (building up the church).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "manifestation" is phanerosis (φανέρωσις), which means a "making visible" or "disclosure." It implies that the Holy Spirit, though invisible, makes His presence and power known through the diverse spiritual gifts. The phrase "to profit withal" comes from the Greek sympheron (συμφέρον), meaning "that which is useful," "advantageous," or "profitable for the whole." This strongly reinforces the communal and edifying purpose of the gifts, moving away from any individualistic interpretation.

Practical Application

This verse calls believers to several important reflections:

  • Identify Your Gift: Every believer is equipped by the Spirit. Understanding and discerning one's spiritual gift(s) is crucial for effective service within the church.
  • Serve Others: The primary purpose of these gifts is not self-promotion but selfless service to others in the body of Christ. They are tools for ministry and mutual support.
  • Promote Unity: Recognizing that all gifts come from the same Spirit and serve the same purpose fosters unity and discourages comparison, envy, or pride among believers.
  • Edify the Church: Ultimately, the proper use of spiritual gifts contributes to the health, strength, and spiritual growth of the entire Christian community, enabling it to fulfill its mission.
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 Peter 4:10

    As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

  • 1 Peter 4:11

    If any man speak, [let him speak] as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

  • 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 14:19

    Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that [by my voice] I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an [unknown] tongue.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:12

    Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual [gifts], seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:17

    For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
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