Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 12:27-31

"Now ye are the body of Christ, and severally members thereof. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, [divers] kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all [workers of] miracles? have all gifts of healings? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But desire earnestly the greater gifts. And moreover a most excellent way show I unto you." — 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 (ASV)

Contempt, hatred, envy, and strife are very unnatural in Christians. It is like the members of the same body being without concern for one another or quarreling with each other. The proud, contentious spirit that prevailed regarding spiritual gifts was thus condemned.

The offices and gifts, or favors, dispensed by the Holy Spirit are noted. These include:

• Chief ministers.
• Persons enabled to interpret Scripture.
• Those who labored in word and doctrine.
• Those who had power to heal diseases.
• Those who helped the sick and weak.
• Those who disposed of the money given in charity by the church and managed the affairs of the church.
• And those who could speak various languages.

What holds the last and lowest rank in this list is the power to speak languages—how vain if a person does so merely to amuse or to exalt himself!

Observe that these gifts are not distributed to everyone alike (see verses 29-30). This would be to make the church all one, as if the body were all ear or all eye. The Spirit distributes to everyone as he will. We must be content though we are lower and less than others. We must not despise others if we have greater gifts.

How blessed the Christian church would be if all its members did their duty! Instead of coveting the highest stations or the most splendid gifts, let us leave to God the appointment of His instruments and also those in whom He works by His providence. Remember, those who seek the chief places will not be approved hereafter; rather, approval is for those who are most faithful to the trust placed in them and most diligent in their Master's work.