1 Corinthians 12:20
1 Corinthians 12:20 in Multiple Translations
As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
But now they are many members, but one body.
But now they are all different parts, but one body.
However, since there are many parts, they make up the body.
But now are there many members, yet but one body.
and now, indeed, [are] many members, and one body;
But now they are many members, but one body.
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
But now there are many members indeed, yet one body.
But the truth is that there are many parts in our body, but it is still only one body.
Yes, a body has a lot of parts, but they make only one body.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Corinthians 12:20
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1 Corinthians 12:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)
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Greek Word Reference — 1 Corinthians 12:20
Study Notes — 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Corinthians 12:20 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
- Sermons on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Context — The Body of Christ
20As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
21The eye cannot say to the hand, “I do not need you.” Nor can the head say to the feet, “I do not need you.” 22On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Corinthians 12:14 | For the body does not consist of one part, but of many. |
| 2 | 1 Corinthians 12:12 | The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. |
1 Corinthians 12:20 Summary
[1 Corinthians 12:20 teaches us that even though there are many different parts, we are all one body in Christ. This means that every believer has a special role to play, and we all work together to serve and glorify God. Just like our physical bodies have many different parts that work together, the body of Christ is made up of many different people with different gifts and talents, as seen in Romans 12:4-5. By recognizing and appreciating our diversity, we can build each other up and fulfill our unique roles in the body of Christ.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that there are many parts but one body in 1 Corinthians 12:20?
This verse emphasizes the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role to play, just as different parts of the human body work together in harmony, as seen in Romans 12:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 12:18-19.
How does this verse apply to the local church?
In the context of a local church, 1 Corinthians 12:20 reminds us that every believer has a vital role to play, regardless of their gifts or abilities, and that together, we form a unified body that serves and glorifies God, as taught in Ephesians 4:16 and 1 Corinthians 12:21-22.
What is the significance of the phrase 'one body' in this verse?
The phrase 'one body' in 1 Corinthians 12:20 highlights the importance of unity and cohesion among believers, emphasizing that despite our differences, we are all part of the same spiritual body, with Christ as our head, as seen in Colossians 1:18 and Ephesians 5:30.
How can I practically live out this verse in my daily life?
To live out 1 Corinthians 12:20, focus on recognizing and appreciating the diverse gifts and roles within your church community, and seek to use your own gifts and talents to serve and support others, as encouraged in 1 Peter 4:10 and Romans 12:6-8.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can recognize and appreciate the diverse gifts and roles within my church community?
- How can I use my own unique gifts and talents to serve and support others in the body of Christ?
- What are some potential consequences of neglecting or devaluing the contributions of other members of the body of Christ?
- In what ways can I promote unity and cohesion within my church community, and how can I work to build others up in their faith?
- What does it mean for me to be a vital part of the body of Christ, and how can I fulfill my role effectively?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:20
Sermons on 1 Corinthians 12:20
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Making My Christian Commitment Stick by Ralph Sutera | The video titled "On Making My Christian Commitments Stick" by Ralph Sotera addresses the issue of how to maintain and uphold Christian commitments. Sotera emphasizes the importanc |
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Let's Not Bite and Devour One Another by Michael L. Brown | Michael L. Brown addresses the importance of exposing error within the body of Christ without causing division, emphasizing the need to hold onto convictions while respecting those |
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Gifts of the Holy Spirit - Part 1 by J. Vernon McGee | In the video, a listener shares her realization that she needs to be more involved in her husband's efforts to evangelize his family. She was inspired by a radio sermon that emphas |
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One Body Many Members - Many Members One Body by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the resurrection of believers. He highlights that in the early church, ev |
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(Om Orientation) Action - Part 2 by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ. He highlights that every member, regardless of their perceived importance, is necessary fo |
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Corinthians - God Has Arranged the Parts of the Body by J. Glyn Owen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the unity and diversity of the body of Christ. The apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 12:14 and 20, states that the body is not made up of just o |
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Vital Differences by K.P. Yohannan | K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the vital differences within the Body of Christ, illustrating how each member, regardless of size or visibility, plays an essential role in the overall fun |






