1 Corinthians 12:20

20 As it is, there are many parts,[a] yet one body.

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 as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.
19 If all were a single member, where would the body be?
20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you," nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you."
22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Or members; also verse 22
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.