But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:7KJV
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1 Corinthians 12:7 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 12:7 mean?

1 Corinthians 12:7 says that every person in the church is given a visible sign or effect of the Holy Spirit’s presence, and these gifts are meant to benefit everyone, not just the individual. The verse emphasizes that spiritual gifts are for the good of the whole community.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, explaining how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers. He wants them to understand that spiritual gifts are not for personal pride or private use, but are given so the entire church can be helped and strengthened. This prepares the way for his later teaching about unity and diversity in the church.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 12:7

  • "manifestation" (φανέρωσις, phanerōsis): This Greek word means a clear showing or revealing. Paul is saying the Spirit’s work is not hidden but made visible in each believer for others to see.
  • "profit withal" (συμφέρω, sympherō): This word means to bring together for benefit or advantage. Paul uses it to stress that the Spirit’s gifts are meant to help the whole group, not just the person who receives them.

Why 1 Corinthians 12:7 matters

  • This verse corrects the idea that spiritual gifts are only for personal experience or status; Paul insists they are given for the common good.
  • It sets the stage for Paul’s later arguments about unity and cooperation in the church, showing that every member’s gift is valuable.
  • By saying “to every man,” Paul highlights that no believer is left out—everyone has something to contribute to the life of the church.

Where else these words appear

“manifestation” Greek G5321 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

“withal” Greek G4851 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

“man” Greek G1538 · used in 78 verses

  • Matthew 16:27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
  • Romans 2:6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
  • Galatians 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.