Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 14:12
It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian church regarding their use of spiritual manifestations during corporate gatherings. He responds to their enthusiasm for tongues by redirecting their focus toward communal benefit.
The words — The Greek term ζηλωταὶ (zēlōtai) literally means "zealous," describing the Corinthians' active pursuit of spiritual gifts. Paul couples this description with the command to excel toward gifts that serve a specific function.
The thread — The text links the pursuit of gifts to 1 Corinthians 12:31, which urges believers to desire the greater gifts. It aligns with 1 Corinthians 14:3, which defines edification as speaking for encouragement and comfort, and 1 Corinthians 14:26, which governs every contribution during assembly.
Why it lands — The passage requires readers to measure spiritual enthusiasm by its tangible capacity to strengthen the community. It demands that personal pursuit be subordinated to the explicit goal of building up others.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
Cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 14:26 What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church.
- 1 Corinthians 12:31 But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way.
- 1 Corinthians 14:3 But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.
- 1 Corinthians 14:1 Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.
- 1 Corinthians 12:7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
- Titus 2:14 He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.