1 Corinthians 12:8

For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

For {G1063} to one {G3739}{G3303} is given {G1325} by {G1223} the Spirit {G4151} the word {G3056} of wisdom {G4678};{G1161} to another {G243} the word {G3056} of knowledge {G1108} by {G2596} the same {G846} Spirit {G4151};

To one, through the Spirit, is given a word of wisdom; to another, a word of knowledge, in accordance with the same Spirit;

To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by the same Spirit,

For to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; and to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit:

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:8 (KJV)

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 12:8, introduces two specific spiritual gifts: the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge. This verse is part of a larger discourse (1 Corinthians 12-14) where Paul addresses the proper understanding, use, and value of spiritual gifts within the early Christian community in Corinth.

Context

Paul begins addressing the topic of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:1, aiming to correct misunderstandings and disorder prevalent in the Corinthian church regarding these supernatural manifestations. He emphasizes that all genuine spiritual gifts originate from the one Holy Spirit and are given for the common good of the church, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 12:7. This verse sets the stage for a diverse distribution of gifts among believers, all working together for the building up of the body of Christ.

Key Themes

  • Divine Source: The phrase "given by the Spirit" underscores that these abilities are not natural talents or acquired skills, but supernatural endowments from the Holy Spirit. This emphasizes God's sovereignty in distributing gifts as He wills, as further stated in 1 Corinthians 12:11.
  • Diversity of Gifts: The distinction "to one... to another" highlights the variety of ways the Spirit manifests Himself through believers. No single person possesses all gifts, fostering interdependence within the community.
  • The Word of Wisdom: This gift is a supernatural revelation or insight into divine purpose and will, applied to specific situations. It is not merely human sagacity or accumulated knowledge, but a divine utterance (logos - word) that provides spiritual discernment and guidance for practical application, often in complex or challenging circumstances.
  • The Word of Knowledge: Distinct from the word of wisdom, this gift involves a supernatural revelation of facts or truth that could not be known through natural means. It is a divine utterance of understanding (gnosis - knowledge), often pertaining to divine mysteries, hidden truths, or specific information relevant to a situation or individual.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek terms used here are logos sophias (λόγος σοφίας) for "word of wisdom" and logos gnoseos (λόγος γνώσεως) for "word of knowledge." The term logos (word/utterance) suggests a divine communication or insight, rather than a continuous state of being wise or knowing everything. This means the gifts are given as specific, divinely-inspired expressions or disclosures, pertinent to a particular moment or need, rather than a permanent, exhaustive intellectual capacity.

Practical Application

Understanding 1 Corinthians 12:8 encourages believers today to recognize and appreciate the diverse ways God works through His people.

  • Identify and Utilize Gifts: Believers should prayerfully seek to understand their own spiritual gifts and how they can be used to serve the church and glorify God.
  • Value Others' Contributions: This verse fosters humility and interdependence, reminding us that no single gift is superior and all are vital for the healthy functioning of the Christian community.
  • Seek Divine Insight: While these are specific gifts, the principles encourage all believers to seek God's wisdom and knowledge through prayer and study of His Word when facing decisions or seeking to understand His will.
  • Common Good: All spiritual gifts, including the word of wisdom and knowledge, are ultimately given not for personal gain or display, but for the edification, guidance, and spiritual growth of the entire body of Christ.
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.

  • Proverbs 2:6

    For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:6

    ¶ Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:

  • 1 Corinthians 2:10

    But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

  • Ephesians 1:17

    That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

  • Ephesians 1:18

    The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

  • Psalms 143:10

    Teach me to do thy will; for thou [art] my God: thy spirit [is] good; lead me into the land of uprightness.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:7

    ¶ Therefore, as ye abound in every [thing, in] faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and [in] all diligence, and [in] your love to us, [see] that ye abound in this grace also.
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