1 Corinthians 12:10- “To another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.”

Extended Explanation

Paul continues listing the spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit. In this verse, he mentions five specific gifts:

1. Miraculous powers – The ability to perform supernatural acts by God’s power, such as casting out demons, overcoming danger, or other miraculous signs that confirm God’s authority.
2. Prophecy – Speaking a message from God, which can involve predicting the future, but more often refers to speaking God’s truth to strengthen, encourage, or correct His people.
3. Distinguishing between spirits – The ability to discern whether something is from God, from the human mind, or from an evil spirit. This gift helps protect the church from deception.
4. Speaking in different kinds of tongues – The ability to speak in languages not previously known by the speaker. This could include earthly languages (as seen in Acts 2) or a heavenly prayer language.
5. Interpretation of tongues – The ability to understand and explain the meaning of what is spoken in tongues so that others in the church can be encouraged and built up.

Paul’s point is that not everyone has the same gift, but all of these gifts come from the same Spirit. These gifts were being used in the Corinthian church, but there was confusion, pride, and disorder, which is why Paul takes time to teach them how these gifts should function properly.

Historical Context

The city of Corinth was a diverse and highly spiritual place. Many people in Corinth were involved in pagan religions, which often included supernatural experiences, ecstatic speech, and spiritual manifestations. Some of the Corinthians may have brought their old religious ideas into their new faith, leading to misunderstandings about spiritual gifts.

The gift of tongues, in particular, seemed to be a major issue. Some in Corinth saw it as a sign of spiritual superiority, while others may have questioned its purpose. Paul later explains that tongues should be used properly—not as a way to show off, but to build up the church (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).

Paul also needed to warn against false prophecy and deception. Jesus Himself had warned about false prophets (Matthew 7:15), and Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that God gives some people the gift of discernment to help protect the church from spiritual deception.

Theological Implications

1. God’s Power is Real and Active – The gifts listed here remind us that God is still at work in supernatural ways. Miracles, prophecy, and spiritual discernment are evidence of His presence.

2. Spiritual Gifts Have a Purpose – These gifts are not given for entertainment or personal glory. They are meant to build up the church and spread the gospel.

3. The Church Needs Both Power and Order – Paul later explains that while these gifts are real and valuable, they must be used in an orderly and loving way (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40). Spiritual gifts should never cause confusion, pride, or chaos.

Literary Analysis

Paul continues using parallel structure to emphasize diversity and unity:

• “To another miraculous powers…”
• “To another prophecy…”
• “To another distinguishing between spirits…”
• “To another speaking in tongues…”
• “To another interpretation of tongues…”

By repeating “to another”, Paul makes it clear that not every believer will have the same gift. No one should boast about their gift, and no one should feel unimportant if their gift is different.

Paul also uses groupings in his list:

• Miracles and prophecy involve direct revelation or power from God.
• Discernment helps protect the church from false teachings and deception.
• Tongues and interpretation help ensure that spiritual experiences benefit the church rather than causing confusion.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 2:1-11 – The first occurrence of speaking in tongues at Pentecost, where people heard the gospel in their own languages.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 – Paul encourages believers to not despise prophecy but to test everything.
• 1 John 4:1 – John warns believers to test the spirits to see if they are from God.
• 1 Corinthians 14:27-28 – Paul gives instructions on how tongues should be used in the church—with interpretation and order.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that God still gives spiritual gifts today, but they must be used with wisdom and humility.

For modern believers, this means:

• Be open to God’s power – Miracles, prophecy, and discernment are real. God is not limited, and He still works through His people.
• Be wise and discerning – Not every spiritual experience or teaching is from God. The church needs people who can test and confirm what is truly from the Spirit.
• Use gifts for the church, not for self-promotion – Gifts like tongues, prophecy, and healing should always point people to God, not to the person using them.
• Seek order, not chaos – Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts should not cause division or confusion. They must be used in love and with respect for the church body (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God gives spiritual gifts because He loves His people. These gifts are not meant to divide the church or create competition—they are meant to help believers grow in faith and knowledge of God.

• Miracles show God’s power and compassion.
• Prophecy reveals God’s truth and guidance.
• Discernment protects the church from deception.
• Tongues and interpretation help bring unity and understanding.

All of these gifts are expressions of God’s love, given to help His people live in truth and power.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect example of all these gifts in action:

• He performed miracles – Healing the sick, casting out demons, calming storms (Matthew 8:23-27, John 9:1-7).
• He prophesied – Predicting future events and speaking God’s truth (Matthew 24, Luke 4:18-21).
• He discerned spirits – Recognizing the work of Satan and calling it out (Luke 4:33-35, Matthew 16:23).
• He spoke with divine authority – Even those who opposed Him recognized that His words carried power (John 7:46).

Ultimately, Jesus is the source of all true spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit gives gifts so that the church can continue the work of Christ on earth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How do you view spiritual gifts like prophecy, healing, and tongues? Do you believe they are still active today? Why or why not?
2. Have you ever seen or experienced a miraculous work of God? How did it impact your faith?
3. Why is discernment so important in today’s church? How can believers make sure they are following the true work of the Spirit and not being deceived?
4. How can spiritual gifts be used properly and in an orderly way in the church today?
5. How do these gifts reflect the character and mission of Jesus Christ?

This verse reminds us that God equips His people with different gifts for a reason. Rather than causing division or pride, these gifts should be used to strengthen the church, proclaim the gospel, and point people to Jesus.