1 Corinthians 12:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul opens a new subject: the gifts the Spirit gives to believers, and he wants the Corinthians fully informed about them.
What Does 1 Corinthians 12:1 Mean?
Having addressed worship and the Lord's Supper, Paul turns to a question the church had raised about 'spiritual gifts.' The Corinthians were a lively, gifted congregation, but they had grown confused and even competitive about these endowments. Paul refuses to leave them in the dark.
His tender word 'brethren' frames everything that follows as family instruction, not rebuke. He wants no believer ignorant of how the Spirit works, because misunderstanding God's gifts breeds pride or fear. To know the Giver and His purposes is to receive the gifts rightly, with humility and gratitude.
1 Corinthians 12:1 in the Original Language
pneumatikon (πνευματικῶν), 'spiritual gifts' -- things belonging to or animated by the Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 12:1
What does 1 Corinthians 12:1 mean?
Paul opens a new subject: the gifts the Spirit gives to believers, and he wants the Corinthians fully informed about them.