1 Corinthians 13:1-13 - ”Love: The Oil That Permeates the Body - The Gifts, Part 5” - Brent Stephens / October 8, 2023

Paul has already affirmed that God gives a variety of gifts to the Church for the common good of all believers. Early church fathers and modern commentators agree that Paul is writing not to dissuade the use of these gifts, but rather to instruct on their proper application within the context of the gathered church. It appears that certain individuals have overstepped their roles in the use of the gifts, actually hurting the church rather than propelling her forward. This is why Paul says he will show them “a more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:31). When gifts are used to shine a spotlight on a personality or interrupt a service, it is altogether unhelpful to the whole body. This is why love must guide the way in the use of spiritual gifts. God gives gifts for the good of all, not merely for the individual who receives the gift. Therefore, gifts must be rightly used through the vehicle of love for the good of all present within the worship service.