1 Corinthians 12:3 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The decisive test of the Spirit is what one confesses about Jesus: His Spirit never curses Christ but leads people to own Him as Lord.
What Does 1 Corinthians 12:3 Mean?
Paul gives a plain measure for discerning genuine inspiration. No one moved by God's Spirit will call Jesus accursed, and no one can sincerely confess 'Jesus is Lord' apart from the Holy Ghost. The confession of Christ becomes the touchstone.
This anchors every gift to its center. Spiritual power is not measured by intensity or display but by allegiance to Jesus. To name Him Lord from the heart is itself a work of the Spirit -- a quiet miracle in every believer. All true gifts flow from, and point back to, this one confession.
1 Corinthians 12:3 in the Original Language
kyrios (κύριος), 'Lord' -- a title of sovereign authority, used for the divine Name.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 12:3
What does 1 Corinthians 12:3 mean?
The decisive test of the Spirit is what one confesses about Jesus: His Spirit never curses Christ but leads people to own Him as Lord.