If all the members of the human body were the same, it would not be able to function as a body. It would be incapable of getting anything accomplished. For example, if all had the gift of tongues, the gift that the Corinthians valued so highly, the body would not function. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
1Cor 12:12-19 - Many Members In One Body
The use of gifts must never be dictated by personal ambition or the desire for selfish gain. As every member of the physical body is united to the head by two sets of nerves, the afferent, which bring to the brain the slightest sense impressions, and the efferent, which bear to the extremities the commands of the mind, so is every member of the Church, even the feeblest and most distant, bound to his glorious Lord. The head of the swimmer is in one element-the air-and the members may be in another-the water-yet the head is able to control and co-ordinate them; so with the unseen Christ and His visible Church on earth. He must direct and use us. We have nothing to do with the work He confides to others, and must concentrate on that which He wants to achieve through us. If this means co-operation with other members or service to them; if it means hidden obscurity or temporary disuse, we must be equally content. It is for Him to do as He will. There is no room for envy or jealousy; they must give place to loving fellowship and mutual help, and the quiet peace and rest which come from recognizing the good pleasure of the Creator. [source]
Chapter Summary: 1Cor 12
1Spiritual gifts, 4are diverse, 7yet to profit all 8And to that end are diversely bestowed; 12as the members of a natural body tend all to the mutual decency, 22service, 26and helpfulness of the same body; 27so we should do for one another, to make up the body of Christ
Greek Commentary for 1 Corinthians 12:19
One member [εν μελος] Paul applies the logic of 1 Corinthians 12:17 to any member of the body. The application to members of the church is obvious. It is particularly pertinent in the case of a “church boss.” [source]
What do the individual words in 1 Corinthians 12:19 mean?
Greek Commentary for 1 Corinthians 12:19
Paul applies the logic of 1 Corinthians 12:17 to any member of the body. The application to members of the church is obvious. It is particularly pertinent in the case of a “church boss.” [source]