1 Corinthians 12:8-10

Diversities of gifts and offices, spoken of in verses 1 Corinthians 12:4-5.

The word of wisdom-the word of knowledge; the exact distinction between those two gifts has been a matter of doubt. Probably "wisdom" refers rather to the practical, and "knowledge" to the doctrinal in Christianity. According to this view "the word of wisdom" would be peculiar skill in explaining to men the way of life, exhibiting the motives to induce them to walk in it, and guiding their conduct in difficult situations: "the word of knowledge," on the other hand, would be that which comes from a deep insight into the doctrines of the gospel, including an understanding of the prophecies, types, and spiritual meaning of the Scriptures, and their true application and fulfilment.

Faith; in a special sense. We are probably to understand an extraordinary measure of confidence in God, such as raises its possessor above the fear of man, and inspires him with the firm hope of success in the midst of dangers, difficulties, and hinderances.

Gifts of healing; power to cure diseases.

The working of miracles; in a general sense, miracles not confined to the healing of diseases.

Prophecy; the inspired utterance of God's will in respect to the way of salvation, including also, as an occasional part of it, the foretelling of future events. See note to verse 1 Corinthians 12:28.

Discerning of spirits; whether men who professed to exercise spiritual gifts, were guided by the Holy Ghost or by a false spirit. Compare 1 John 4:1.

Divers kinds of tongues; power to speak various languages.

Interpretation of tongues; power to translate, or tell the meaning of one language in the words of another.