In the Bible, “severally” means individually or separately. It often refers to different spiritual gifts or functions given to believers as described in passages like 1 Corinthians 12:11, where it emphasizes that each person receives gifts according to God’s will.
Scripture
4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;
5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;
6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.
7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit,
9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit,
10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.
11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
Biblical Meaning of “Severally”
The term “severally” in the biblical context underscores the individuality and diversity of the spiritual gifts bestowed upon believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:11, the Apostle Paul writes, “But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually (or severally) as He wills.” This verse emphasizes that the Holy Spirit distributes gifts uniquely to each person, contributing to the overall function and health of the Body of Christ. The use of “severally” highlights that, while all gifts come from the same Spirit, they serve different purposes and are given to individuals based on God’s sovereign choice.
This concept of diversity is further reinforced in Romans 12:6, where Paul states, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” Each believer has a role to play that is vital for the unity and effectiveness of the church. The idea of “severally” not only celebrates individual contributions but also promotes the understanding that these gifts are meant to be used in service to others, building up the community in love and faith. Thus, the broader meaning of “severally” reflects God’s intention for unity amidst diversity within the church, encouraging believers to recognize and embrace their unique roles while working collectively for the advancement of the Kingdom of God.
The biblical notion of “severally” speaks to the profound complexity within the Body of Christ, illustrating that diversity is not merely tolerated but celebrated as part of God’s grand design. In scripture, we see this theme echoed through the life of various biblical figures, each equipped with distinct abilities and callings. For instance, the varied roles of the apostles demonstrate that individual gifts can greatly impact the church’s mission and growth. Peter’s bold proclamation of the Gospel contrasts with Timothy’s pastoral care, showcasing how these “severally” given gifts are crucial in fulfilling the Great Commission. By recognizing the distinct contributions of each apostle, believers are reminded that their unique talents, when aligned with God’s purpose, serve the greater whole.
Moreover, the Old Testament narrative presents numerous examples of individuals who were given specific gifts or roles “severally” to accomplish God’s purposes. Consider Bezalel and Oholiab, who were divinely endowed with skill and wisdom to construct the Tabernacle. Their craftsmanship illustrates that God equips individuals with unique abilities suited for particular tasks—reinforcing the idea that such gifts are meant to be actively employed within the community. This biblical principle reveals a cohesive narrative: God’s intention for His people encompasses a beautiful tapestry of varied gifts and talents, all working harmoniously. Therefore, “severally” not only signifies individual possession but also encourages communal interdependence, where each believer is both a supplier and recipient of grace, promoting a deeper unity that transcends individual differences.
Individual Gifts and Talents
In the Bible, the term “severally” often refers to the unique gifts and talents that individuals possess. This concept emphasizes that each person is endowed with specific abilities that contribute to the overall functioning of the community or body of believers. The diversity of these gifts highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing individual contributions, fostering a sense of unity in diversity within the faith community.
Divine Distribution of Grace
Another broader meaning of “severally” relates to the divine distribution of grace. It signifies that God’s grace is given in various forms and measures to different individuals according to His purpose and will. This understanding encourages believers to appreciate the unique ways in which God’s grace operates in their lives and the lives of others, reinforcing the idea that each person’s experience of grace is valid and significant in the context of the larger community.
Unity in Diversity
The concept of “severally” also underscores the theme of unity in diversity within the body of Christ. While individuals may have different gifts and roles, they are all part of a single body working together for a common purpose. This notion promotes harmony and cooperation among believers, reminding them that their differences are not a source of division but rather a means to enrich the community and fulfill God’s mission collectively.
How to Embrace Your Spiritual Gifts as a Christian
Embracing your spiritual gifts as a Christian is a beautiful journey that begins with self-reflection and prayer. Take time to seek God’s guidance, asking Him to reveal the unique talents and abilities He has bestowed upon you. Remember, these gifts are not just for your benefit but are meant to serve others and glorify God. Engage with your church community, as they can provide insight and encouragement in discovering how you can best use your gifts. Whether it’s teaching, serving, encouraging, or leading, each gift plays a vital role in the body of Christ. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; sometimes, it’s in those moments of vulnerability that we truly shine. Trust that God has equipped you for a purpose, and as you embrace your gifts, you’ll find deeper fulfillment and connection in your walk with Him.
Bible References to Severally Defined:
Romans 12:4-8: 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;
7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;
8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Peter 4:10-11: 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:
11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 4:11-13: 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,
12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
1 Corinthians 7:7-9: 7 I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.
8 To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am.
9 But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
Matthew 25:14-30: 14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property.
15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away.
16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more.
17 So also he who had received the two talents made two talents more.
18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money.
19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.
20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’
21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’
22 And he also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed,
23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’
24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed,
25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’
26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed?
27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.
28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents.
29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.
30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
1 Corinthians 12:27-31: 27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.
28 And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?
30 Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?
But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.
1 Corinthians 12:12-20: 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.
13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many.
15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
16 and if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell?
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.
1 Corinthians 12:21-26: 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,
23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty,
24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it,
25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.
26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.