King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 12:8 Mean?
“For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;”
Context
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.
8
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **For to one is given by the Spirit.**—1Corinthians 12:8-10 illustrate the former statements as to varieties of endowments for the object of the manifestation of the Spirit, still, however, emphasising the unity of their origin, viz., the Holy Spirit. The following division (Meyer’s) of the gifts which are here mentioned is, perhaps, the best approach to a classification which can be made. In the Greek the genera (so to speak) are divided by the word *hetero,* the species by *allo,* both words being rendered in the English by the one word “another “:—
I.Gifts which have reference to intellectual power.
(1)The word of wisdom.
(2)The word of knowledge.
II.Gifts which depend upon special energy of faith.
(1) The faith itself.
(2) Operating in deeds.
(*a*)Healings.
(*b*)Miracles.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 12:8 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 12:8
Proverbs 2:6
→1 Corinthians 2:6-10
→1 Corinthians 1:5
→Ephesians 1:17-18
→Psalms 143:10
→2 Corinthians 8:7
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge