Wednesday, 24 December 2014
…but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, 1 Corinthians 12:24
In the previous verse, Paul spoke of the “unpresentable parts” of the body and how we cover them because they have “greater modesty.” He now notes that this is completely unnecessary for “our presentable parts.” Parts of the body which show no offense to others, which are not considered immoral when displayed openly, or those which we are not shy about presenting because they are somehow weaker or defective, are openly displayed.
And so there is a contrast in how we exhibit these parts. Likewise, there is a contrast in how our gifts are displayed. All of them are given by God. It is He who has “composed the body.” And in this, there is actually great wisdom because He has essentially “given greater honor to that part which lacks it.” As noted yesterday, we are showing honor to these unpresentable parts through their covering. Thus we are actually highlighting them through concealment.
Think of this on an individual basis. Suppose there is someone who has electrical skills in the church. He is quiet and doesn’t want his gift noted for everyone to see and compliment. When something electrical needs to be done, he will do it. The church may have a fantastic display of Christmas lights, innovative lighting of signs or areas of the building, or a truly unique layout of certain display units, etc. All of these have brought honor both to the body and to God, and yet at the same time, this part of the body was essentially covered from the view of others. Those who need to know the use of this gift will appreciate and acknowledge it directly while others will acknowledge it from afar.
Life application: Your gift has been given for the benefit of the whole. Use it for that purpose and to the honor of God who gave it.
Lord God, so many people have done marvelous things to keep the church running properly, looking good, and meeting the many needs which arise. Some of them are known to the church as a whole and some of them have been done quietly, without anyone seeing it. But You see it all. Please reward those who diligently use their gifts for the benefit of the whole body. Let them know what they have done is appreciated by all. Amen.