“But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more excellent way.”– 1 Corinthians 12:31 (KJV)
“So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts. But now let me show you a way of life that is best of all.”– 1 Corinthians 12:31 (NLT)
“But now I want to lay out a far better way for you.”– 1 Corinthians 12:31 (MSG)
What Does 1 Corinthians 12:31 Mean?
In 1 Corinthians 12:31, the Apostle Paul encourages us to desire the best gifts within the church, but then he introduces the concept of a greater way. This serves as a vital reminder that while spiritual gifts are important for building up the church, there is an even more essential principle guiding our actions and service: love. The term ‘best gifts’ refers to spiritual gifts that are most beneficial for the community and the body of Christ. However, Paul’s message highlights that without love, these gifts lose their value.
This verse can be thought of as a bridge between the discussion of spiritual gifts leading into the beautiful chapter of love that follows. Paul is not claiming that we should not desire spiritual gifts. Instead, he is urging us to seek them with love and understanding. This approach shifts our focus from a self-centered desire to a truly altruistic mindset where love governs our pursuits. Paul’s contrast between gifts and love reminds us to act in ways that genuinely benefit one another.
1 Corinthians 12:31 Explanation and Commentary
When we read 1 Corinthians 12:31, we are swiftly led into a conversation about the nature of spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts are various abilities given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the good of everyone. They include teaching, healing, miracles, prophecy, and more, forming a beautiful mosaic of service within the church. Paul’s instruction to earnestly desire these gifts indicates their importance in enhancing our community and fulfilling God’s will.
However, Paul offers a noteworthy caution: the excellence of our gifts is incomplete without love. Love is the ultimate way, as it brings people together and fulfills Christ’s commandments. The more excellent way he alludes to indicates that while we may possess amazing gifts, our demonstration of love must take precedence. Love is the foundation, the driving force behind every action we take within the body of Christ.
This theme of love being paramount is explored in depth in the next chapter, 1 Corinthians 13, where Paul outlines love’s qualities. It becomes evident that possessing spiritual gifts without love makes those actions empty—like a clanging cymbal. Here, we understand that our motivation must be love, not pride or the need for recognition.
We are reminded that our gifts should build others up rather than promote ourselves. In essence, Paul invites us to seek spiritual gifts that bring glory to God and serve our neighbors effectively. The lesson he teaches is rooted in humility and service, intrinsic to a community that thrives on love. Therefore, when we think about desiring the best gifts, it is essential to couple that yearning with love, as love is the ultimate expression of our faith.
Context of 1 Corinthians 12:31
To fully appreciate the significance of 1 Corinthians 12:31, we need to analyze it within the broader context of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. The Corinthian church was a vibrant, multicultural community in Greece, facing various challenges, such as division, immorality, and confusion about spiritual practices. Paul writes this letter to address these issues, guide the church in its growth, and clarify the purpose of spiritual gifts.
In chapter 12, Paul describes the variety of spiritual gifts and emphasizes that each member of the church plays a unique role, just as different parts of the body serve distinct functions. By asserting that every believer has received spiritual gifts, Paul affirms that spiritual gifting is given to everyone, creating a sense of unity and interdependence. Thus, when Paul directs the Corinthians to desire the best gifts, he highlights the diverse ways in which they can act in love to support one another.
Furthermore, the lead-up to 1 Corinthians 12:31 highlights the significance of spiritual gifts and how they can sometimes become sources of pride. Some Corinthians were elevating particular spiritual gifts above others, creating an environment of competition and discord. Paul’s call for them to desire the best gifts serves to rectify this perspective, ensuring that they approach their gifts with the right intention— to serve and uplift the community through love.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of 1 Corinthians 12:31
Breaking down the key parts of 1 Corinthians 12:31 allows us to grasp the profound insights Paul seeks to share. The phrase ‘covet earnestly the best gifts’ indicates a passionate desire for the spiritual gifts that benefit not only ourselves but the community as a whole. The word ‘covet’ usually has a negative connotation, implying greed. In this instance, Paul uses it to emphasize an intense longing for the gifts that will help us serve others effectively.
Next, Paul introduces ‘yet show I unto you a more excellent way.’ The transition from desiring gifts to observing a more excellent way signifies that mere pursuit of gifts is misguided if it is not grounded in love. Thus, we internalize that the pursuit of gifts should be accompanied by a loving attitude, connecting our intentions with our actions.
This highlights the connection between gifts, love, and purpose. Each spiritual gift we possess must lead to an expression of love towards one another. Therefore, we should continually seek our gifts while being mindful of the underlying spirit of love that should motivate our actions.
Lessons to Learn From 1 Corinthians 12:31
The lessons we can learn from 1 Corinthians 12:31 are crucial for our personal and communal growth. First, it is vital to cultivate a desire for the spiritual gifts that contribute positively to our church and community. A vibrant spiritual life comes from seeking out these gifts while connecting with one another through love, kindness, and support.
Secondly, we need to remember that love has a significant influence on our spiritual journey. Love motivates us to edify others and be selfless, shining light in dark situations. Every interaction should be infused with love. Therefore, as we operate in our spiritual gifts, we should constantly ask ourselves if our actions are rooted in love or if they are mere show.
Lastly, we are encouraged to create a culture of unity within the church. Paul emphasizes that we do not operate in isolation; we are part of a greater body. The body of Christ thrives on collective support, and we should see ourselves as part of something more significant than individual ambitions. By uplifting one another with our gifts, we affirm that we are united in purpose. This unity fosters a nurturing and thriving community that reflects God’s love in action. God has gifted each one of us in unique ways, which collectively shape a stronger church that glorifies Him.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we discover that 1 Corinthians 12:31 calls us to a deeper understanding of spiritual gifts, love, and community. We learn that while gifts are essential, love takes precedence in serving one another and fulfilling God’s purposes. Paul’s exhortation to earnestly desire the best gifts is a reminder to focus on our spiritual growth while never forgetting the importance of love.
As we ponder over this verse, let us commit to actively nurturing our spiritual gifts with love, ensuring that our actions build up the body of Christ. Together, we can create a thriving community that expresses God’s love to those around us, encouraging one another in faith and service. If you are interested, feel free to explore other insightful passages like Acts 14:24 or Joshua 10:19 to continue deepening your understanding of God’s word.