Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
Or he that exhorteth--Since all preaching, whether by apostles, prophets, or teachers, was followed up by exhortation (Acts 11:23; Acts 14:22; Acts 15:32, etc.), many think that no specific class is here in view. But if liberty was given to others to exercise themselves occasionally in exhorting the brethren, generally, or small parties of the less instructed, the reference may be to them.
he that giveth--in the exercise of private benevolence probably, rather than in the discharge of diaconal duty.
with simplicity--so the word probably means. But as simplicity seems enjoined in the next clause but one of this same verse, perhaps the meaning here is, "with liberality," as the same word is rendered in 2 Corinthians 8:2; 2 Corinthians 9:11.
he that ruleth--whether in the Church or his own household. See 1 Timothy 3:4-5, where the same word is applied to both.
with diligence--with earnest purpose.
he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness--not only without grudging either trouble or pecuniary relief, but feeling it to be "more blessed to give than to receive," and to help than be helped.
Having then gifts differing according to the grace given to us--Here, let it be observed, all the gifts of believers alike are viewed as communications of mere grace.
whether--we have the gift of
prophecy--that is, of inspired teaching (as in Acts 15:32). Anyone speaking with divine authority--whether with reference to the past, the present, or the future--was termed a prophet (Exodus 7:1).
let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith--rather, "of our faith." Many Romish expositors and some Protestant (as CALVIN and BENGEL, and, though, hesitatingly, BEZA and HODGE), render this "the analogy of faith," understanding by it "the general tenor" or "rule of faith," divinely delivered to men for their guidance. But this is against the context, whose object is to show that, as all the gifts of believers are according to their respective capacity for them, they are not to be puffed up on account of them, but to use them purely for their proper ends.
Other commentary entries containing this verse:
Deuteronomy 15:7-11
Romans 12:21
1 Corinthians 12:28
2 Corinthians 8:2
2 Corinthians 9:11
1 Timothy 4:13
James 1:5
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