For the body does not consist of one member but of many. – 1 Corinthians 12:14
Today’s verse is one that the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian church in response to divisions arising about spiritual gifts. It appears that some in the church were envious of members gifted in ways other than they themselves were blessed. Their elevation of some gifts over others was causing dissension.
Even today, some Christians may become dissatisfied because they think God’s assignment for them in the body of Christ is not as important as someone else’s. Even though the believer is set apart to God in Christ with a new nature, the carnal nature may not immediately depart. Paul stated in a different letter that he had learned to be content, regardless of his circumstances (Philippians 4:11). John MacArthur says that Christians will know “the joy of ministry and of pleasing the Lord” if they ”use the gifts and opportunities God has given them.”
The Lord has inserted a diversity of gifts within the Body of Christ, His Church. Diversity can provide unity if members function in the capacity of their unique spiritual giftings. There are those who preach, teach, or administrate. Some have the gift of hospitality while others will undergird the Church with prayer. It is God who has “arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose” (1 Corinthians 12:18). He is infinitely wise and benevolent. Trust His purpose and provision.
Diversity has also made this country great… a melting pot of ideas and traditions to make a nation strong upheld by principles set forth by the Founding Fathers. Stand firm for what is right. Then pray for unity of spirit throughout this land.
Today’s Verse: 1 Corinthians 12:14
For the body does not consist of one member but of many.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Peter 4:7-11
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
