We closed out 1 Corinthians 12 with Paul prioritizing the spiritual gifts, once again in order of importance, in V.28-31 — 1. Apostles (Acts 1:21-26), 2. Prophets (Ephesians 4:11-12 — a temporary office as the Church Age was in its infancy), 3. Teachers (an office constant throughout the entire Dispensation of Grace responsible for teaching truth and edifying the body of Christ), and temporary gifts and support gifts.
1 Corinthians 12:28-31: And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? (No!) are all prophets? (No!) are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (No!) Have all the gifts of healing? (No!) do all speak with tongues? (No!) do all interpret? (No!) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Paul reminds us to desire earnestly the best gifts, and the gifts of the Spirit must be exercised in love, which brings us to chapter 13, the universally accepted agape or unconditional love chapter. The 9 manifestations of the fruit of the Spirit begins with love! Galatians 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
We are reminded that we are to use our liberty, our freedom to do what is right, to serve one another with unconditional love! Galatians 5:13: For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
Now, in chapter 13, Paul explains that without agape love, no matter what he accomplishes, it will be worthless. The four types of love are listed below, and agape love is the greatest love to exercise. Agape love is a coined term only found in the New Testament.
A thought to ponder — The reward is in the attitude, not in the action! Everything we do for Christ, may we do it with unconditional, agape love. The rewards of the judgment seat of Christ will be based on the attitude of our hearts as we exercise our spiritual gifts. 1 Corinthians 3:11-15