1 Corinthians 12:7
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
Original Language Analysis
δίδοται
is given
G1325
δίδοται
is given
Strong's:
G1325
Word #:
3 of 10
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
φανέρωσις
the manifestation
G5321
φανέρωσις
the manifestation
Strong's:
G5321
Word #:
5 of 10
exhibition, i.e., (figuratively) expression, (by extension) a bestowment
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεύματος
of the Spirit
G4151
πνεύματος
of the Spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
7 of 10
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
πρὸς
to
G4314
πρὸς
to
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
8 of 10
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:19Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.1 Corinthians 14:12Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.1 Corinthians 14:17For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.1 Corinthians 14:5I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Historical Context
The Greek concept of sympheron (common good) was central to civic life—citizens were expected to use wealth and abilities for the polis's benefit. Paul applies this civic virtue to the church: spiritual gifts serve the corporate body, not individual glory or experience.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing 'every believer' has a Spirit-manifestation change your view of yourself and others?
- What gifts might you be neglecting that would 'profit' your church community?
- How can churches evaluate whether gift-use truly serves 'the common good' or merely entertains?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man—Phanerōsis tou Pneumatos (φανέρωσις τοῦ Πνεύματος, "manifestation of the Spirit") means the Spirit's invisible presence becomes visible/tangible through gifts. Every believer (to every man, hekastō) receives some manifestation—no Christian is gift-less. This democratizes spiritual ministry against the Corinthians' elitist spirituality.
To profit withal (pros to sympheron, πρὸς τὸ συμφέρον) defines gifts' purpose: corporate benefit, not personal gratification. The phrase means "for the common good" or "for mutual advantage." Paul will argue (ch. 14) that unintelligible tongues-speaking without interpretation violates this principle since it doesn't build up others. Gifts are stewardships held in trust for the body's benefit. The criterion for evaluating any gift-use: Does it profit others? Does it build up the church?