How does 1 Corinthians 14:1 encourage the pursuit of spiritual gifts and love?

Love: The Supreme Pursuit

• “Earnestly pursue love” (1 Corinthians 14:1).

• Love is the most excellent way introduced in 1 Corinthians 12:31 and defined in 1 Corinthians 13.

• Without love, even the greatest gifts amount to “a resounding gong” (1 Corinthians 13:1).

• Pursuing love means choosing daily actions that reflect patience, kindness, and truth (1 Corinthians 13:4-6).

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Gifts: Earnestly Desired, Not Neglected

• “Eagerly desire spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 14:1).

• God distributes gifts “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7).

• Romans 12:6-8 and 1 Peter 4:10 encourage believers to use gifts faithfully as stewards of God’s grace.

• Pursuing gifts honors the Giver, strengthens the church, and advances the gospel.

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Prophecy: Highlighted for the Church’s Good

• Paul singles out prophecy as a gift that “speaks to people for their edification, encouragement, and comfort” (1 Corinthians 14:3).

• Prophecy builds up the entire congregation, contrasting with tongues that edify the speaker unless interpreted (1 Corinthians 14:4-5).

• By prioritizing prophecy, believers focus on clarity, instruction, and the upbuilding of others.

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Balance of Heart and Practice

• Love supplies the motive; gifts supply the means.

• Galatians 5:22 names love first among the fruit of the Spirit, showing character precedes capability.

• 1 Timothy 4:14-15 urges believers not to neglect their gift but to progress in it, integrating devotion and disciplined practice.

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Walking It Out Today

• Regularly meditate on 1 Corinthians 13 to shape motives.

• Identify and cultivate God-given abilities, seeking confirmation from mature believers.

• Serve in the local church, letting love guide every exercise of gifting.

• Remain teachable, evaluating all prophetic words against Scripture’s unchanging truth (Acts 17:11).