1 Corinthians 12:7-8

"A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial: to one is given a message of wisdom through the Spirit,
to another, a message of knowledge by the same Spirit" ~ 1 Corinthians 12:7-8

Paul follows his discussion on the variations of gifts and ministries within the body of Christ, to a discussion on the certain manifestations of the Spirit and what sort of fruit is produced by the Spirit in the life of the believer.

Verse 7 is an encouraging verse which reminds the believer that the Spirit is active and working in the life of the believer. The Spirit works in the sanctification of the believer, the equipping of the believer, and intercession are all works of the Spirit that are of benefit to the believer and to the body of Christ as a whole. The word "manifestation" is a continual verb, meaning that the Spirit is at constant and lasting work in my life. It is humbling knowing that this is a gracious gift of the Spirit...I have done nothing to attain such a gift. Yet not only my good is produced by His gifting but also "for the training of the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). God grants us these gifts as an encouragement and sign of His working but also to tend to His other sheep. This mutual blessing shapes the body of Christ and makes it stronger.

Verse 8 begins to talk about the different manifestations of the Spirit. This verse has a pair of somewhat similar gifts: wisdom and knowledge. Wisdom is referring to the one who has great insight into matters of theological doctrine. This would certainly the man who delves into the depths of Scripture and discern its meaning. Such a manifestation would be made up of the equipping to do such and a passion to pursue the depths of Scripture. The manifestation of knowledge is referring to an undestanding of life and how to apply God's Word to it. Where wisdom would be shown in Peter's Pentecost sermon or Paul on Mars Hill, knowledge is seen in action as Jesus and the disciples minister to the people or the setting up of the deacon ministry in Acts.

We often think of the gifting of the Spirit as an actual action that we can complete. Yet, in this verse we are reminded that those who seek to immerse themself and others in Scripture are men and women who the Spirit has set aside for such things.