1 Corinthians 12:31

But desire earnestly the greater gifts. And moreover. most excellent way show. unto you.

'desire earnestly' -'aim hard' (Ber); 'You should set your hearts on the best spiritual gifts.' (Phi)

'the greater gifts' -

Points to Note:

1. All the striving in the world would be futile for some of the gifts mentioned, i.e. apostles.

2. 'The greater gifts..shows that not every gift is of equal importance depending on the perspective. In the assembly, tongues are less fruitful than prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:1-5).' (McGuiggan p. 173)

'And moreover' -'And yet beyond all this. am showing you. way (a way to reach the highest goal, to achieve the noblest ambition.)' (F.F. Bruce p. 124)

'most excellent' -'I show you. way par excellence, beyond all comparison' (Robertson p. 174) 'but. shall show you. way which surpasses them all.' (Phi)

Points to Note:

1. Possession of the gifts didn't necessarily make you. better Christian (it made some worse.)

2. The "way", is the way of love discussed in the next chapter. It is not the way to better spiritual gifts. Rather it is: (1) The motive that the gifts must be exercised with, to be of any profit to the individual or the congregation (Chapter s 13-14). (2) The way that will outlast such gifts. (3) The way, if followed, that will make you. better Christian.

People that exercised spiritual gifts, could end up lost. (Matthew 7:22) But Christians who exercised love (as defined by Paul), will end up saved.