1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul lists different roles and gifts that God has given to the church. He is emphasizing that God Himself is the one who arranges the members of the church and gives them their roles and spiritual gifts.

Paul starts with three specific leadership roles:

1. Apostles – These were the men chosen by Jesus to establish the early church. They had seen the risen Christ and were sent out to spread the gospel (Acts 1:21-22).
2. Prophets – In the early church, prophets spoke messages from God to guide and encourage believers (Ephesians 4:11).
3. Teachers – Those who explained and taught God’s Word to help believers grow in their faith.

After these, Paul lists various supernatural gifts and acts of service that are vital to the life of the church:

• Miracles and healing – Acts of divine power that confirmed God’s presence and authority.
• Helping – Serving and caring for others in practical ways.
• Guidance – Also translated as “administration,” referring to leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Different kinds of tongues – Speaking in languages given by the Holy Spirit, which was important in the early church for communication and worship.

Paul does not rank these roles and gifts by importance in terms of value, but rather in how they functioned in establishing and strengthening the early church. Every role is essential, and every gift comes from God for the good of the body.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was struggling with pride, division, and competition over spiritual gifts. Some believers were elevating themselves because they had more noticeable gifts, while others felt inferior.

In Greek and Roman culture, status and hierarchy were everything. People fought for recognition and influence. Sadly, this mindset had crept into the church, causing some to think that certain roles (like speaking in tongues) made them more spiritual than others.

Paul corrects this thinking by reminding them that God, not people, assigns roles in the church. No one should boast about their gifts, and no one should feel unimportant. The church is a body, and every part is needed.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights key truths about how God works in the church:

1. God is the one who places people in the church – We don’t choose our own spiritual gifts or positions—God assigns them according to His wisdom.
2. Every role is important – Even though Paul lists apostles, prophets, and teachers first, he later explains that all gifts are necessary for the church to function properly.
3. Spiritual gifts are not about personal glory – The purpose of these gifts is to build up the church, not to elevate individuals.
4. God uses both supernatural and practical gifts – Miracles and healing are mentioned alongside helping and administration, showing that God values both the extraordinary and the ordinary acts of service.

This verse reminds us that God is in control of His church, and every believer has a role to play.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording is important in this verse:

• “God has placed in the church” – This reinforces that God is the one who gives gifts and assigns roles, not human effort or ambition.
• The use of numbers (“first, second, third”) – These indicate the historical importance of apostles, prophets, and teachers in establishing the church, not a ranking of personal value.
• A mix of leadership, supernatural, and service gifts – Paul lists different types of gifts together, showing that all are necessary for the church’s health.

This verse fits into Paul’s larger teaching in 1 Corinthians 12:

1. The church is like a body, with many parts working together (vv. 12-27).
2. God is the one who assigns roles and gifts (v. 28).
3. Love is the greatest gift (1 Corinthians 13), meaning gifts should always be used in love, not pride or competition.

Paul’s message is clear: every role and gift matters, and they should all be used to serve others.

Biblical Cross-References

• Ephesians 4:11-12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
• Romans 12:6-8 – “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy… if it is serving, then serve… if it is teaching, then teach.”
• 1 Peter 4:10 – “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
• 1 Corinthians 14:12 – “Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.”

These passages confirm that spiritual gifts exist to build up the church, not to create division or pride.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse speaks directly to how we view our roles in the church today.

• If you feel unnoticed in the church, remember that your gift is important. Every role matters, from teaching to helping behind the scenes.
• If you struggle with pride, remember that God is the one who assigns gifts. They are given for service, not self-promotion.
• If you are unsure of your spiritual gift, ask God for wisdom and serve where you are needed. Gifts are often discovered through serving others.
• If you see division in the church, be a voice for unity. Encourage others to value every person’s contribution.

This verse is a call to humility, service, and teamwork in the body of Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He carefully arranges His church.

• God does not overlook anyone. He gives every believer a role to play.
• God values both supernatural and practical service. He honors those who serve behind the scenes as much as those in visible roles.
• God’s love brings unity, not competition. His desire is for the church to work together in harmony.

This verse reminds us that God’s love is seen in how He equips and uses each believer for His glory.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the head of the church (Colossians 1:18), and He is the one who calls and equips His followers.

• Jesus personally called and sent the apostles. They were the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20).
• Jesus taught and served with humility. He didn’t seek status, but came to serve (Mark 10:45).
• Jesus gave His disciples spiritual gifts. After His resurrection, He sent the Holy Spirit to empower His followers (Acts 1:8).
• Jesus calls His people to love one another. Paul follows this passage with 1 Corinthians 13, the famous chapter on love, showing that gifts must be used with Christ-like love.

If Jesus, the Son of God, came to serve, how much more should we use our gifts to serve one another?

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What role do you believe God has given you in the church?
2. Have you ever felt like your spiritual gift is less important than someone else’s? How does this verse challenge that thinking?
3. How can you use your gifts to build up the church rather than seeking personal recognition?
4. Are there gifts or roles in the church that you tend to overlook? How can you encourage those who serve in less visible ways?
5. What is one practical step you can take to serve more effectively in your local church?