Paul describes the church as a body of many parts in __.

• A. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
• B. Romans 12:4-5
• C. Ephesians 4:16
• D. Colossians 1:18

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is the church described as a single body made up of many parts, each with a distinct function, all connected by the Spirit so the whole can operate together. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Paul develops this image in depth: just as a body has many parts, so the church has many members; every part is necessary and none can claim it doesn’t belong. The Spirit distributes different gifts to each believer for the common good, and God arranges the members so that there is honor for the parts that seem weaker. This teaches interdependence, equality in value, and unity across diversity. Other passages also use the body metaphor, but with different emphasis: Romans 12:4-5 speaks to many members with different functions; Ephesians 4:16 focuses on growth as every part does its work; Colossians 1:18 presents Christ as the head of the body. Still, the exact image of a body with many parts is most directly expressed in 1 Corinthians 12:12-31.