Apostle Paul bridges from spiritual gifts to the root of many of the Corinthian congregation’s problems. Their acts lack “the most excellent way, love”. They are being driven by a chauffeur who was told the right place to go, but given the wrong directions. They are in danger of ending up in the place they did not want to go. (13; Matthew 9:13, 12:7) A number of the Corinthian believers have fallen asleep (11:30).
God has given me different gifts at different times to help others. Yet, these gifts, whether tongues, prophecy, miraculous powers, healing, wisdom, or messages of knowledge, are all temporary (8b-9). They are tools meant for the greater good. All tools can be used for good or bad, including the gifts of the Spirit. All tools must be used in love.
All good gifts are from God, including health, wealth, prosperity, food, drink, children, and gifts of the Spirit. These gifts should be used in love. Sometimes they are not. If they are not, then I am going in the wrong direction in life. Then, my motives, my chauffer, is driving me in the wrong direction. On the way, I am not at the checkpoint where I should use my God-given gift to help others.
Love is a verb more than a noun. Love is patient, kind, protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Apostle Paul lists more actions provoked by love (4-8a). I need to examine my heart. Is my chauffeur going via the way of love?
