1 Corinthians 12:5
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
διακονιῶν
of administrations
G1248
διακονιῶν
of administrations
Strong's:
G1248
Word #:
3 of 8
attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Roman society operated through patronage networks where benefactors gave gifts expecting public honor and reciprocal obligation. Paul redefines spiritual gifts as service (diakonia) to Christ rather than tools for gaining social capital, directly challenging Corinthian honor-culture.
Questions for Reflection
- How does viewing your spiritual gift as 'ministry' (service) change how you exercise it?
- In what ways might Christians today use gifts for self-promotion rather than serving Christ?
- What does it mean practically that Christ is 'Lord' over your spiritual gifting?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord—Diakoniai (διακονίαι, "ministries" or "services") emphasizes that gifts exist for servant-functions, not self-display. The term relates to diakonos (deacon/servant), stressing humble service over honor-seeking. While gifts differ (diaireseis, distributions), they share one Master: the same Lord (ho autos Kyrios).
This Trinitarian structure (Spirit-verse 4, Lord/Son-verse 5, God/Father-verse 6) reveals all three persons active in gifting the church. The title "Lord" for Jesus asserts His divine sovereignty over gift-distribution and use. Gifts are not personal possessions to deploy as we wish but assigned roles in Christ's service. The "difference" lies in the sphere and mode of service (teaching vs. healing vs. leading), yet all serve the same Lord's purposes.