King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 12:5 Mean?

1 Corinthians 12:5 in the King James Version says “And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. administrations: or, ministries” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. administrations: or, ministries”

1 Corinthians 12:5 · KJV

Context

3

Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. accursed: or, anathema

4

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

5

And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. administrations: or, ministries

6

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

7

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

Read 1 Corinthians 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord—Diakoniai (διακονίαι, "ministries" or "services") emphasizes that gifts exist for servant-functions, not self-display. The term relates to diakonos (deacon/servant), stressing humble service over honor-seeking. While gifts differ (diaireseis, distributions), they share one Master: the same Lord (ho autos Kyrios).

This Trinitarian structure (Spirit-verse 4, Lord/Son-verse 5, God/Father-verse 6) reveals all three persons active in gifting the church. The title "Lord" for Jesus asserts His divine sovereignty over gift-distribution and use. Gifts are not personal possessions to deploy as we wish but assigned roles in Christ's service. The "difference" lies in the sphere and mode of service (teaching vs. healing vs. leading), yet all serve the same Lord's purposes.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Roman society operated through patronage networks where benefactors gave gifts expecting public honor and reciprocal obligation. Paul redefines spiritual gifts as service (diakonia) to Christ rather than tools for gaining social capital, directly challenging Corinthian honor-culture.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does viewing your spiritual gift as 'ministry' (service) change how you exercise it?
  2. In what ways might Christians today use gifts for self-promotion rather than serving Christ?
  3. What does it mean practically that Christ is 'Lord' over your spiritual gifting?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
καὶ1 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

διαιρέσεις2 of 8

“differences”

G1243

a distinction or (concretely) variety

διακονιῶν3 of 8

“of administrations”

G1248

attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco

εἰσιν4 of 8

“there are”

G1526

they are

καὶ5 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὁ6 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

αὐτὸς7 of 8

“the same”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

κύριος·8 of 8

“Lord”

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Corinthians 12:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 12:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 4:11-12Matthew 23:10Romans 12:6-81 Corinthians 12:28-29Romans 14:8-91 Corinthians 8:6

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1 Corinthians 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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