Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:4KJV
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1 Corinthians 12:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 12:4 mean?

1 Corinthians 12:4 says that there are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but all of them come from the same Holy Spirit. This means that even though people in the church may have various abilities or roles, they all share a common source in God’s Spirit.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, a group dealing with disagreements and pride about spiritual experiences. Here, Paul wants them to understand that diversity in gifts is not a sign of division or superiority, but part of God’s design for the church. The focus is on unity: many gifts, but one Spirit behind them all.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 12:4

  • "diversities" (διαρέσεις, diareseis): This word means differences or varieties. Paul uses it to highlight that spiritual gifts are not all the same, but intentionally diverse.
  • "gifts" (χαρίσματα, charismata): This refers to gracious gifts or abilities given freely by God’s Spirit, not earned or deserved.
  • "same" (αὐτὸ, auto): The Greek word here stresses that despite the variety, there is one and the same Spirit giving these gifts, underlining unity.
  • "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma): This is the Holy Spirit, the source of all spiritual gifts, making clear that the diversity comes from one divine origin.

Why 1 Corinthians 12:4 matters

  • This verse corrects the idea that some spiritual gifts are more important or come from different sources; all are from the same Spirit.
  • It sets the stage for Paul’s larger teaching about unity and cooperation in the church, even when people have different roles or abilities.
  • Understanding this helps prevent division or jealousy in a church community, reminding everyone that diversity in gifts is intentional and good.

Where else these words appear

“diversities” Greek G1243 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 12:5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

“gifts” Greek G5486 · used in 17 verses

  • Romans 1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
  • Romans 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
  • 1 Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

“are” Greek G1526 · used in 146 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • John 6:64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.
  • Galatians 4:24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.