The Greatest Gifts

August 4, 2015 Year B

1 Corinthians 12:27-31

God placed people in the church to encourage and equip the body. He lists their gifts in this order:

Apostles
Prophets
Teachers
Miracle Workers
Healers
Helpers
Managers
Language Speakers
Interpreters of Languages

They are all important. However, God has placed people with these gifts to help the church. What does Paul mean when he talks about desiring the greater gifts? I believe he is speaking about the first three gifts. The reason is because Paul lists these gifts in groups of three. He mentions the first three by number (first, second, and third) (1 Corinthians 12:28). Since he numbers these first gifts, and because these three gifts are also the same gifts listed as offices in Ephesians 4:11-12, I think these are the greatest gifts.

The other gifts (especially those of languages) are discussed further in the next two chapters. Paul even says that if one can do all of the later gifts of miracles, healing and languages – without love – then these gifts are worthless.

The greatest gifts move the church forward in its mission. The other gifts promote the one who has the gift.

Thank God that He has given me one of the greatest gifts to promote His kingdom.

Prayer: God, help me develop Your gift to me in a way that expands Your kingdom.