The universal church

In verse 27, Paul writes, “Now you are Christ’s body, and individually parts of it.” This is a reaffirmation of both the diversity and the unity of spiritual gifts. The “body of Christ” mentioned here does not refer merely to a local church, but to the universal church that extends throughout the whole world. The church at Corinth was one local congregation that made up this universal church. When we read this passage from that perspective, we begin to see the greatness and the vast scope of God’s redemptive plan. We learned yesterday the truth, “If one part of the body suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if a part is honored, all the parts rejoice with it.” This must be lived out not only within the local church, but also on a level that extends beyond its boundaries. Even now, in the twenty-first century, many Christians are suffering persecution in totalitarian states and Islamic nations. They too are members of the body of Christ. How much concern have we shown for them? Is it not time for us to repent of a narrow and limited view of the church?

The gifts and ministries

Next, Paul lists various ministries and spiritual gifts to illustrate the diversity of gifts within the church. (1) He begins with three ministries: apostles, prophets, and teachers. Moreover, he ranks them by saying, “first,” “second,” and “third.” This indicates that these three ministries are regarded as the most important for the building up of the church. (2) The remaining gifts are then listed with the phrase, “then.” In other words, apart from the first three ministries, the order does not appear to indicate a strong ranking. (3) Following those who perform miracles and those who have gifts of healing, Paul mentions those who help and those who lead. Those who speak in tongues are listed last, likely to correct the Corinthians’ tendency to place excessive emphasis on the gift of tongues. (4) These gifts are diverse; not everyone has the same ministry or the same spiritual gift. (5) Finally, Paul encourages believers to earnestly desire the greater gifts. His purpose is the good and edification of the whole church. More important than seeking the greater gifts is how we use the gifts we have been given. Paul calls this “a far better way.” That way is the way of love. Without love, even the greatest spiritual gifts will bring confusion to the church.