1 Corinthians 12:31 – “Now eagerly desire the greater gifts. And yet I will show you the most excellent way.”

Extended Explanation

Paul ends this chapter on spiritual gifts with an important statement: while spiritual gifts are important, there is something even greater.

• “Eagerly desire the greater gifts” – Paul encourages the Corinthians to pursue gifts that build up the church. Some gifts have a greater impact on strengthening and edifying believers.
• “And yet I will show you the most excellent way” – Here, Paul sets up what comes next: 1 Corinthians 13, the famous “love chapter.” He is about to explain that love is the foundation of everything. No matter what spiritual gifts a person has, if they do not use them in love, they are worthless.

Paul is not saying that some gifts make a person more important. Instead, he is emphasizing that gifts should be used to serve others and glorify God, not to elevate oneself.

This verse transitions the discussion from spiritual gifts to the attitude that should define all Christian service—love.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was struggling with pride, division, and competition over spiritual gifts. Some believers thought their gifts made them more spiritual than others, especially those who spoke in tongues. Others felt left out or inferior.

In Greek culture, rhetoric, wisdom, and status were highly valued. This led some Corinthians to believe that certain gifts—especially those that involved speaking—were superior. They were using their gifts to impress others rather than to build up the church.

Paul corrects this attitude by redirecting their focus. Instead of competing for gifts that make them look important, they should seek gifts that build up the church—and, more importantly, they should use them in love.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights some key truths about how God wants believers to use their gifts:

1. Spiritual gifts should be desired, but for the right reasons. God gives gifts to build up the church, not to boost egos.
2. Some gifts have a greater impact on strengthening the church. These gifts should be used wisely and responsibly.
3. Love is greater than all spiritual gifts. The focus should not be on personal ability but on serving others in love.
4. God cares about how we use our gifts, not just what gifts we have. The right motive—love—matters more than the gift itself.

This verse prepares the reader for the teaching in 1 Corinthians 13, where Paul explains that love is greater than any spiritual gift.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is important:

• “Eagerly desire” – Paul encourages believers to actively seek gifts that are beneficial to the church.
• “The greater gifts” – This likely refers to gifts that have a broader impact on strengthening the church, such as teaching or prophecy (see 1 Corinthians 14:1-5).
• “The most excellent way” – This phrase sets up the contrast between spiritual gifts and love. Paul is shifting the focus from what gifts believers have to how they use them.

This verse serves as a bridge between 1 Corinthians 12 and 1 Corinthians 13. Paul moves from discussing the diversity of gifts to the heart behind those gifts—love.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 – Paul explains that without love, spiritual gifts are meaningless.
• 1 Corinthians 14:1 – “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.”
• Romans 12:6-8 – “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us… if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
• Ephesians 4:11-12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service.”

These verses reinforce that spiritual gifts exist to serve and build up others, and love must be the foundation of all service.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Many Christians today misunderstand spiritual gifts. Some chase after certain gifts because they seem more exciting or prestigious, while others feel like their gifts don’t matter.

This verse reminds us that:

• Gifts should be used to serve, not to show off. The goal is to strengthen the church, not gain personal recognition.
• Love is the most important thing. Even the most impressive gift is meaningless if it is not used with love.
• God wants us to desire spiritual gifts. It’s good to pray for gifts that help the church grow, but they must be pursued with the right heart.
• What matters most is how we treat others. A loving attitude is more powerful than any spiritual gift.

Instead of focusing on what gifts we have, we should focus on how we use them—to love and serve others.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows that God values love above all else.

• God’s gifts are given in love. He equips believers to serve each other, not to elevate themselves.
• God is more concerned with character than ability. A loving, humble person is more pleasing to God than someone with many talents but no love.
• God wants His church to reflect His love. Spiritual gifts are tools, but love is the purpose behind them.

This verse reveals God’s heart for His people—He desires love to be the foundation of everything they do.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect example of love in action.

• Jesus had all spiritual gifts, but He always acted in love. His miracles, teachings, and leadership were all motivated by love.
• Jesus prioritized love over power. He didn’t seek to impress people with His abilities—He humbled Himself to serve (John 13:14-15).
• Jesus showed that love is greater than any gift. He sacrificed Himself on the cross, demonstrating that love is the highest calling (John 15:13).
• Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to equip His followers. He gives gifts to His people, but always with the purpose of building up His church (Acts 1:8).

If Jesus used His gifts in love, we should do the same.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever felt pressure to seek certain spiritual gifts? How does this verse challenge that mindset?
2. How can you use your spiritual gifts to serve others rather than seeking personal recognition?
3. What does it mean to “desire the greater gifts”? How can you pursue gifts that build up the church?
4. How does this verse help you understand the importance of love in using spiritual gifts?
5. How can you reflect Christ’s love as you serve in your church and community?