“ to another the ability to speak with knowledge according to the same Spirit”
λόγος γνώσεως [logos gnoseos] – word of knowledge
What does that mean? I have told you over the months to use the versions to help you with difficult passages. the word of knowledge, a word of knowledge and understanding, speak with knowledge, the utterance of knowledge, giving a message full of knowledge, the Spirit gives a message of special knowledge.
I like the NLT translation above – “the Spirit gives a message of special knowledge”. But what does it mean? The other versions are not all that helpful as they just repeat the phrase and don’t elaborate on it. That is because they are translations and that is what is written in the original text. They are not commentaries. To explore the options or to look at the possible interpretations we need to turn to the commentaries. There are numbers of Commentaries available free on E-Sword. Just download them.
Gill
To another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; meaning either knowledge of future events; or an universal knowledge of the Scriptures . . . and the doctrines contained in them . . . by him who is the spirit of prophecy, and by whom the prophetical writings were dictated; and therefore he is the best interpreter of them, and who only can lead into the true knowledge thereof.
JFB
word of knowledge — ready utterance supernaturally imparted of truths ALREADY REVEALED (in this it is distinguished from “the word of wisdom,” which related to NEW revelations). [There is more but I chose not to include it. You can read it for yourself if you wish, as long as you have Jamieson, Fausett and Brown’s commentary loaded in E-Sword. It’s free!]
Clarke
By the doctrine of knowledge we may understand either a knowledge of the types in the Old Testament; or what are termed mysteries; the calling of the Gentiles, the recalling of the Jews, the mystery of iniquity, of the beast, etc., and especially the mystical sense or meaning of the Old Testament, with all its types, rites, ceremonies etc.
Barnes
To another the word of knowledge – Another would be distinguished for knowledge. He would be learned; would have a clear view of the plan of salvation, and of the doctrines and duties of religion. The same variety is observed in the ministry at all times. One man is eminent as a wise man; another as a man of intelligence and knowledge; and both may be equally useful in their place in the church.
None of the input from these commentaries satisfies me. I have done my study. I have examined and looked at the text in detail. These comments are trite. They don’t serve to distinguish between the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge. Reading these commentaries it appears they are giving an intellectual explanation; the wisdom of men. It is hard to determine any difference between the word of wisdom and word of knowledge. And in what way can any of them be “demonstrating God’s presence”. In what way are they manifestation gifts, those which reveal the supernatural nature of God? How do such gifts therefore fit with the miraculous: great faith, healing, the miraculous, prophecy, distinguishing between spirits, tongues and the interpretation of tongues?
Wait till tomorrow for my input, based on my reading of the Scripture and my experience. This gem is already long enough for one day.
Envy comes from people’s ignorance of, or lack of belief in, their own gifts.
Jean Vanier
The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul.
G.K. Chesterton
Happy New Year’s Day to all you Gemers. May this coming year be especially blessed for you and may you end the year knowing Jesus more.
Ian Vail