(1Co 12:7) “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” “Withal”: for all. He Who loves man enough to bear their sins on a cross, now lives inside those who are Born Again, spiritually made alive, saved. He does so in the person of the Holy Spirit. His person in us gives us abilities (gifts), not for self, but for ministry to others. He lives, works, using our minds, ears, mouth, hands, and feet.

(1Co 12:6) “And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.”  The Holy Spirit knows just what we, and the church for that matter, need. So, He gives us the abilities needed for that work. He even moves us from place to place to fit us where we can be best used. To God be the glory!

(1Co 12:5) “And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.”  The same Holy Spirit that works in one person works in another. This does not mean they will do things the same way, for their circumstances may lead to Him directing them differently. Also, He will use that person’s personality and character traits for His Own glory.

(1Co 12:4) “Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.”  The same Holy Spirit that dwells in me dwells in my saved brothers and sisters. The same blessed Spirit that gives me the ability to speak God’s Word, gives another the ability to give sacrificially. The glory is not ours, but God’s Who gave the ability. We are but instruments – tools, vessels for the Master’s use.

 (1Co 12:3) “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.”  The exaltation of the Lord Jesus is by the Spirit of God. Whether it be stated by saved or unsaved, the Spirit of God did the prompting (Mk 9:38-39). He deserves to be praised!

(1Co 12:2) “Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.”  I once worshipped the idol of self’s pleasure. I had believed in Jesus all my life, but had not repented of my sin, asking Jesus to save my soul. Oh, I had once prayed the prayer, but no one had confronted me at the time with my sin.

(1Co 12:1) “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.”  Each of God’s gifts are spiritual. But our text is about to single out the misuse of “special gifts” which are given until the fall of Jerusalem as a sign to the Jewish people or nation.

 (1Co 11:34) “And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.” Could there be anything more sacred than that which represents the body and the blood of Christ Jesus? Same with baptism. Could there by anything more sacred than that which depicts the death and resurrection of our Lord? We should approach those times reverently.