The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts.
Comment: This follows on yesterday’s passage and obviously the two combined make up Paul’s answer to the Corinthians about respect for others with different gifts and consequent positions in the church – the body of Christ. Jesus the Christ is often referred to the as ‘the Head of the church’! I can remember about 80 years ago my grandmother being upset because a preacher used the word ‘pregnant’ in a radio sermon. So, in spite of the use of nakedness in the media and the advertising of many things which in my grandparents’, my parents’ time were offensive as being understood clearly, I think most people will understand what Paul is talking about when he uses these words – ‘greater modesty’ and ‘(un)presentable parts. The boy peddling for a peddle organ to work and the sweeper of the floor in the church are essential and to be honoured!
But then some positions in the church depend upon certain qualities being present. God may use people with needed qualities naturally or He may give them ‘special gifts’. But certainly He has the choice and the Holy Spirit is the power if such a chosen person is to do their job as God requires. Not in this earthly time do they ever do their ‘calling’ perfectly – so, honouring them, we must not expect perfection! Then Paul gives a numbered list of some of the people in the positions seen as more important in the church. But let’s not forget that if God appoints you or me as the gardener or the cleaner we are important to both God and necessary to the church functioning well! It is an honour to serve Him!
Prayer: I am honoured and delighted to be in Your service Jesus!
As I read it! 