1 Corinthians 1:7

So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

1 Corinthians 1:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to Paul’s opening thanksgiving to the Corinthian church. In the preceding verses, Paul affirms that the Corinthians were enriched in all utterance and all knowledge (1 Corinthians 1:5). Verse 7 then draws a conclusion: because of that enrichment, they come behind in no gift. The word “gift” here refers to spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, and speaking in tongues, as detailed later in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. Paul’s point is that the Corinthian believers were not deficient in any spiritual gift compared to other churches.

Meaning

The phrase “come behind” translates a Greek word meaning to be lacking, deficient, or in want. Paul assures the believers that they lack no spiritual gift. This assurance is not a boast about their merit but a recognition of God’s generous work among them. The second half of the verse, “waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,” is literally “waiting for the revelation” of Christ. This refers to the second coming, when Jesus will appear in glory, raise the dead, and judge both the living and the dead. At that time, spiritual gifts will cease because they will no longer be needed (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). Thus, the present experience of spiritual gifts is a foretaste of the coming age and a reason for eager expectation.

Biblical connections

Paul connects the present possession of gifts with the future hope of Christ’s return. In verse 8, he assures that God will confirm believers unto the end, that they may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 9 adds that God is faithful, who called them into fellowship with His Son. The anticipation of Christ’s coming also appears in 1 Thessalonians 1:10, where believers are described as waiting for God’s Son from heaven. This waiting is not passive but motivates faithful living and readiness to give an account before the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:5).

Application

This verse encourages believers to recognize the spiritual gifts they have received from God and to use them for the edification of the church. It also calls them to live in eager readiness for Christ’s return, knowing that their present gifts are a foretaste of the fullness to come. The assurance that they lack no gift should produce gratitude and humility, not pride, because every gift is given by God’s grace.

Reflection

How do you view the spiritual gifts God has given you? Do you see them as a sign of His grace and a preparation for the coming of Christ? Let this verse remind you that your present blessings are not an end in themselves but point forward to the day when you will see the Lord face to face.