THE STORY OF JESUS: 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
“Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. And yet I will show you the most excellent way.” (1 Corinthians 12:31)
When you think of ‘greater gifts’, what comes to mind?
Miracles, raising the dead, healing the sick, predicting the future?
When I read this chapter, that is NOT the impression I get.
Paul lists a variety of manifestations of the Spirit, but they are occasional, situational.
Not for always, not for everyone, and only as the Spirit determines.
And they are functional, they serve a greater purpose… the common good.
What does Paul see as the greater gift, or the “most excellent way”?
Everyone is entrusted with the gifts of love, joy, peace, patience, etc.
These are not just occasional, situational, if the Spirit determines.
These are forever, for everyone.
“Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.” (1 Corinthians 13:8)
I may not always be able to heal someone, but I can always love someone.
Whatever is needed at the moment to express love and support, that is the greatest gift.
If I offer myself in love to someone who is struggling, the Spirit may do something miraculous through me.
But whether or not He does, I have still offered myself in love – the most excellent gift!
It seems the Corinthians were more eager to show off their ‘gifts’, and were not loving each other.
Is love the primary gift that your church strives to express… how about me?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, in all my training on building and being church, it was never presented as simply as this. Help me to love people, and leave the manifestations up to You!