1 Corinthians 12:20

20 But now the members [are] many, and the body one.

1 Corinthians 12:20 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 12:20

But now are they many members
Of different make and shape, in different parts and places, and of different use and service: yet but one body;
all are united together, and make up one complete body, and which without each of them would not be perfect: so there are many members in the body of Christ, the church; some are teachers, others are hearers; some give, and others receive; but all make up but one church, of which Christ is the head; nor can anyone of them be spared; was anyone wanting, even the meanest, there would be a deficiency, and the church would not be the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

1 Corinthians 12:20 In-Context

18 But now God has set the members, each one of them in the body, according as it has pleased [him].
19 But if all were one member, where the body?
20 But now the members [are] many, and the body one.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, I have not need of thee; or again, the head to the feet, I have not need of you.
22 But much rather, the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary;

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Or '[There are] many members, and one body.'
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.