The Body of Christ

1 Corinthians 12:12-31

Summary 
In 1 Corinthians 12:12–31, Paul uses the image of the body to help us understand who we are as the church. Because each believer has been given a manifestation of the Spirit for the common good, we have a foundation for unity that the world does not have, a true place to belong whether we feel like it or not, a deep need for one another no matter how strong we think we are, and the assurance that each of us is being used by God. As the body of Christ, there are no unnecessary members. Each of us has been brought in, gifted, and called to build up the whole.

Discussion Questions

• What stands out to you from Paul’s picture of the church as a body in this passage?
• Why do you think Paul emphasizes that “to each” is given a manifestation of the Spirit?
• How does the image of the body help us understand unity and diversity in the church?
• According to this passage, what is the foundation of our unity as Christians? How is this different from the way the world creates unity?
• What are some things that tend to divide the church today? How does this passage speak into those divisions?
• Why might someone feel like they don’t belong in the church? How does Paul respond to that idea?
• What does it mean that God has “arranged” the members of the body?
• Why is it hard for us to admit that we need other people in the church?
• What kinds of gifts or roles tend to be overlooked or undervalued? Why?
• What does it look like in practice to “suffer together” and “rejoice together”?
• What does this passage teach about your personal role in the church?
• How can you identify and begin using the gifts God has given you?
• How would our church look different if everyone truly believed they were needed and being used by God?
• What is one practical step you can take this week to build up the body of Christ?