Definition: Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from 1 Corinthians 12:30. It's a really fascinating and complex passage about how God intends to use his people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that God wants each person in the church to have a specific role or function, and that these roles are interconnected. It’s not just about having gifts; it's about using them together in a way that benefits the whole community of believers. Let’s break it down word by word: “Have all the gifts of healing?” - This refers to various abilities – perhaps things like physical healing, emotional comfort, or spiritual guidance – that God has given to His people. It suggests a wide range of ways people can help each other. “do all speak with tongues?” - Tongues are a language they can use in prayer and worship. It means they can communicate with God through spoken words, perhaps in a way that’s deeply spiritual or meaningful. “do all interpret?” – This is the key part! Interpreting means understanding something – like a message, a promise, or a truth. It suggests that each person has a particular way of understanding God's word and applying it to their lives. Putting it All Together - A Simple Explanation: Imagine a choir in a church. Each voice is beautiful and important. But if they all sing the same song – the same message – it’s not as rich or full as when each person has their own unique melody. This verse says that God wants everyone to have different ways of expressing His truth, allowing for a diverse and vibrant expression of faith. Each person's gifts (speaking with tongues) are vital because they work together to help the whole church grow in understanding and love for God. It emphasizes that our individual talents aren’t wasted – they’re meant to be used to glorify God. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that we're not all equal in our spiritual gifts. It encourages humility, recognizing that everyone has something valuable to offer, and that working together strengthens the whole church community. It also highlights the importance of each person’s unique role and perspective. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss the historical context (when was this verse written)? Explore why this idea is important in a modern-day church setting?