An Exegetical Glimpse into the Pauline Usage of Charismata and Oikodomen in 1 Corinthians 12:1-7: A solution for Ecclesiastical Disunity in 21st Century
But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
The word ‘δὲ’ (but) is a coordinating conjunction, it is indicating a shift in process of thought and discussion from one to another. Paul here uses it to mean that though all the gifts flow from the one God, the manifestation by which the spirit acts varies in each individual. Ἑκάστῳ -“each one” which can also be translated “everyone” (it is used in 1 Cor. 12:18 in this way) It is used in this to show that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are not reserved for a few outstanding people. From here, Paul now mention the purpose of the gifts – “συμφέρον” verb participle present active accusative neuter singular from συμφέρω which is polyvalent in meaning- 1. bring together (a look at the prefix “συv” which means together) Acts 19:19.—2. confer a benefit, be advantageous or profitable or useful—a. impersonal construction συμφέρει (it) is good, etc. Mt 5:29; 19:10; 1 Cor 6:12; 2 Cor 8:10.—b. the participle “συμφέρων” -profitable, etc. τὰ συμφέροντα means “what is good for you”- Acts 20:20. τὸ συμφέρον- profit, advantage 1 Cor 10:33. In this place, the term refer to both “bring together” and “profiting.” This shows that while it is true that a man who has spiritual gift is thereby profited, the advantage is wider. Other people are also profited. Spiritual gifts are always given to be used, and for edification of the whole body of Christ, not for egocentric use of the possessors.
Pauline emphasis here in using the term ‘συμφέρον‘ is to call the people to the understanding of the real purpose for which the charismata are given. It is for the common goods. συμφέρον can also mean “with a view to what is for the best” when it is used with the preposition “πρὸς” and article “τὸ.” (1 Cor. 6:12). Some scholars are of the opinion that this purpose is an aspect of oikodome (up building) which in turn focuses attention on the well-being and maturity of the entire community, not the individual.[22] Pride or envy is not to be encouraged. This would form and foment divisions and parties; but for profit and advantage not a man’s own but public that is the good of the whole. The term συμφέρον here reinforces the fact that spiritual gifts are not end themselves but a means to an end and the end is “bringing together,” that is to be a unifying factor in the church of God. Promotion of unity is one of the aspect of oikodomen (building up) which Paul emphasized much in chapter fourteen.
The Reality of Disunity in the 21st Century Church
A relatively new thing has happened to the church of Jesus in the world during the last decades. The Holy Spirit has taken His place. The most prevalent facet of this new thing is the charismata and charismatic movements. The church ministers nowadays are acting in several ways that ignored or contradicted what is the biblical standard of using the spiritual gifts. Envy, unhealthy rivalry and spiritual hierarchization have permeated the whole of the atmosphere of the church in this century. The fact that the Spirit reserves the right to give or withhold the charisma has been undermined. They (ministers) are envy of one another. Some are feeling slighted or passed over because they do not enjoy the more spectacular gifts.
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