1 Corinthians 14 12

1 Corinthians 14:12 kjv

Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.

1 Corinthians 14:12 nkjv

Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel.

1 Corinthians 14:12 niv

So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.

1 Corinthians 14:12 esv

So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

1 Corinthians 14:12 nlt

And the same is true for you. Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church.

1 Corinthians 14 verses

1 Corinthians 14 12 Meaning

This verse directs believers who are passionate about spiritual gifts to earnestly pursue those gifts that primarily contribute to the spiritual growth and strengthening of the church community. Paul affirms their zeal but reorients its focus from individual expression, especially in uninterpreted tongues, to corporate edification. The ultimate purpose of all spiritual gifts is the building up of the collective body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 14 12 Context

First Corinthians chapter 14 specifically addresses the proper use and relative value of spiritual gifts, particularly distinguishing between speaking in tongues and prophecy, in the corporate assembly of believers. The Corinthian church was enthusiastic about spiritual gifts, but their use often lacked order and failed to build up the entire congregation, with an overemphasis on tongues without interpretation. Prior to this verse, Paul establishes that prophecy, because it is understandable, edifies the church, while uninterpreted tongues only edify the speaker (vv. 1-11). This verse serves as a crucial summary and transition point, urging the Corinthians to direct their genuine zeal for spiritual gifts towards those that visibly and functionally strengthen the entire church. It sets the stage for Paul's further instructions on order and interpretation in the following verses.

1 Corinthians 14 12 Word analysis

• So also you (Ὥσπερ καὶ ὑμεῖς - Hōsper kai hymeis): This phrase connects the verse directly to Paul's preceding argument, emphasizing that the Corinthians, despite their particular issues, are to apply the same principle Paul just articulated regarding the relative value of gifts (vv. 6-11) to their own conduct. It acts as a logical consequence, urging them to follow the implication of his teachings.

• since you are zealous (ζηλωταί ἐστε - zēlōtai este):

  • Zēlōtai refers to those who are zealous, passionate, eager, or ardent. This term acknowledges and even affirms the Corinthians' strong desire for spiritual manifestations. Paul isn't condemning their zeal itself, which is commendable, but seeking to redirect it.
  • This zeal, if misdirected, could lead to envy or rivalry (compare Acts 21:20 regarding Jewish zealots or Rom 10:2 about zeal without knowledge). Here, Paul guides their well-intentioned enthusiasm toward a productive, selfless end.

• for spiritual gifts (πνευματικῶν - pneumatikōn):

  • Refers broadly to "things of the Spirit" or "spiritual gifts," a term used extensively by Paul in 1 Corinthians (1 Cor 12:1, 14:1). While referring to gifts in general, in chapter 14 it often tacitly highlights the specific gifts of prophecy and tongues, which were contentious issues in Corinth.

• seek to excel (ζητεῖτε ἵνα περισσεύητε - zēteite hina perisseuēte):

  • Zēteite is an imperative verb meaning "seek" or "strive for." It indicates a deliberate, active pursuit. Paul isn't just suggesting; he's commanding an intentional effort.
  • Perisseuēte means "to abound," "to excel," "to be preeminent," or "to have in abundance." This emphasizes that their goal should be not just participation, but to be plentiful or outstanding in gifts that serve the right purpose. It’s about more than superficial involvement; it’s about a fruitful overflowing in communal benefit.

• in gifts that build up (πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν - pros tēn oikodomēn):

  • Oikodomēn means "building," "edification," "construction," or "strengthening." This is a key theme throughout 1 Corinthians 14 (cf. vv. 3, 4, 5, 26). It signifies the spiritual growth, unity, and internal strength of the believers as a collective. Gifts are not for mere display or personal spiritual euphoria but for the corporate body’s development.

• the church (τῆς ἐκκλησίας - tēs ekklēsias): The assembly, the congregation, the body of Christ. This underscores the communal, corporate nature of Christian life and worship, stressing that gifts are not for isolated individual experience but for the strengthening and benefit of the entire fellowship. The well-being of the whole body is paramount.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel": This grouping highlights the tension Paul addresses. He validates their passion ("zealous") but directs it toward a specific aim ("seek to excel"). It shows a pastoral approach that channels existing energy rather than suppressing it, guiding it toward what is constructive.
  • "in gifts that build up the church": This phrase encapsulates the core criterion and purpose for exercising spiritual gifts. It's a fundamental principle throughout Paul's teaching on gifts, asserting that usefulness is defined by its contribution to the body's maturity and unity, reflecting Christ's love.

1 Corinthians 14 12 Bonus section

This verse serves as an example of Paul's nuanced pastoral approach. He doesn't rebuke the Corinthians for their zeal itself, which can be a powerful force for good, but provides discernment and direction. This demonstrates that genuine spiritual desire must be guided by biblical wisdom and the overarching principle of Christian love. The "building up" (oikodomē) motif used repeatedly by Paul speaks to the organic, progressive nature of the church as it matures. It's a continuous process where each member contributes to the structural integrity and spiritual flourishing of the whole, much like stones fit together to form a dwelling. This principle extends beyond merely spiritual gifts to any talent, resource, or effort a believer possesses; its true worth is measured by its capacity to strengthen and serve the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 14 12 Commentary

Paul, in 1 Corinthians 14:12, acknowledges the Corinthian believers' earnest desire and passion for spiritual gifts. He does not extinguish this zeal but rather seeks to refine and re-direct it. His instruction pivots their focus from gifts that might bring personal prominence, particularly uninterpreted tongues, to those that primarily edify the entire church congregation. The core principle established here is that the value and appropriateness of any spiritual manifestation in public assembly is determined by its ability to foster spiritual growth, unity, and strength within the collective body of believers. This aligns with his overarching theme in chapter 13, that love—which prioritizes others' well-being—must govern all expressions of gifts. This verse, therefore, acts as a crucial pastoral guideline, ensuring that divine endowments serve divine purposes, cultivating a healthy, growing church that mirrors Christ's selfless love.

For practical application, believers are called to:

• Identify gifts they possess that clearly serve others.
• Intentionally cultivate and exercise gifts in ways that genuinely bless the community, not just for personal enjoyment.
• Prioritize opportunities for service that build up fellow believers.