1 corinthians 12:8 - For to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom, and to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit;
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What does "1 corinthians 12:8" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 12:8, is part of Paul's discussion about spiritual gifts within the early church in Corinth. He's explaining that the Holy Spirit distributes different abilities and gifts to believers, all for the purpose of building up the church. Let's break down the meaning of this specific verse:
"For to one is given through the Spirit..." This emphasizes that these abilities are gifts. They are not earned or something people naturally possess in their own strength. They originate from and are empowered by the Holy Spirit.
"...the word of wisdom..." This doesn't necessarily refer to general wisdom, but rather a specific, supernatural ability to discern truth and apply it practically to complex situations. It's a gift of insight that goes beyond human understanding, providing godly counsel and solutions. It's often related to understanding God's will in particular circumstances and communicating it effectively.
"...and to another the word of knowledge..." Similar to wisdom, this isn't just general knowledge or information. It's a supernatural revelation of facts, understanding of doctrines, or insights into situations that could not be known through natural means. It's a special insight into the truth, providing an understanding of God's principles and purposes. It enables the person to speak with authority and clarity about God's truth.
"...according to the same Spirit." This is crucial! It emphasizes the unity of the Spirit. While the expressions of the gifts differ, the source is the same Holy Spirit. This means:
Harmony: These gifts should work together, not in competition.
Accountability: Those who receive these gifts are accountable to God and to the community of believers.
Humility: No one can boast about these gifts; they are a gracious bestowal from God.
Purpose: These gifts are for the common good of the church, not for individual gain or pride.
In Summary:
1 Corinthians 12:8 highlights that the Holy Spirit empowers different believers with specific abilities – the word of wisdom (the ability to apply divine insight to practical situations) and the word of knowledge (the ability to supernaturally know facts or insights beyond natural means). Both gifts are given by the same Spirit, emphasizing the unity and purpose behind these manifestations: to build up the church and glorify God. They are not to be sources of pride or division, but rather tools for serving the body of Christ.
Think of it this way:
Word of Wisdom: Knowing how to act in a situation, discerning the best course of action according to God's will.
Word of Knowledge: Knowing facts or information that are not naturally accessible, providing insight into a situation.
Both gifts, when operating properly, point people towards God and His truth.
1 corinthians 12:8 - For to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom, and to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit;
What does "1 corinthians 12:8" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 12:8, is part of Paul's discussion about spiritual gifts within the early church in Corinth. He's explaining that the Holy Spirit distributes different abilities and gifts to believers, all for the purpose of building up the church. Let's break down the meaning of this specific verse:
"For to one is given through the Spirit..." This emphasizes that these abilities are gifts. They are not earned or something people naturally possess in their own strength. They originate from and are empowered by the Holy Spirit.
"...the word of wisdom..." This doesn't necessarily refer to general wisdom, but rather a specific, supernatural ability to discern truth and apply it practically to complex situations. It's a gift of insight that goes beyond human understanding, providing godly counsel and solutions. It's often related to understanding God's will in particular circumstances and communicating it effectively.
"...and to another the word of knowledge..." Similar to wisdom, this isn't just general knowledge or information. It's a supernatural revelation of facts, understanding of doctrines, or insights into situations that could not be known through natural means. It's a special insight into the truth, providing an understanding of God's principles and purposes. It enables the person to speak with authority and clarity about God's truth.
"...according to the same Spirit." This is crucial! It emphasizes the unity of the Spirit. While the expressions of the gifts differ, the source is the same Holy Spirit. This means:
Harmony: These gifts should work together, not in competition.
Accountability: Those who receive these gifts are accountable to God and to the community of believers.
Humility: No one can boast about these gifts; they are a gracious bestowal from God.
Purpose: These gifts are for the common good of the church, not for individual gain or pride.
In Summary:
1 Corinthians 12:8 highlights that the Holy Spirit empowers different believers with specific abilities – the word of wisdom (the ability to apply divine insight to practical situations) and the word of knowledge (the ability to supernaturally know facts or insights beyond natural means). Both gifts are given by the same Spirit, emphasizing the unity and purpose behind these manifestations: to build up the church and glorify God. They are not to be sources of pride or division, but rather tools for serving the body of Christ.
Think of it this way:
Word of Wisdom: Knowing how to act in a situation, discerning the best course of action according to God's will.
Word of Knowledge: Knowing facts or information that are not naturally accessible, providing insight into a situation.
Both gifts, when operating properly, point people towards God and His truth.