Footsteps #136

Paul uses 4 metaphors to represent the church. The first in 1Cor.12:12-19 was the body. Many tend to think of “unity” and “diversity” as two opposites, two extremes.  If one stresses unity too much, diversity is surely harmed.  If diversity becomes the watchword, unity is threatened.  The two must be held in delicate balance.  The genius of Paul’s body metaphor is to expose the fallacy of such thoughts when applied to spiritual gifts and ministries.  Taking into account Paul’s earlier discussion on factionalism and this one on diversity in unity we must conclude that God’s living Church has parts, but it has no parties. In 1Cor.12 Paul highlights both the unity and the diversity of the human body to underline the need for a variety of spiritual gifts and ministries in God’s church.  We must be active in taking up the inherent challenge in the chapter – to discover and affirm our own gifts and (without coveting) those of others in the body of Christ.  

The second metaphor Paul uses had already been mentioned in1Cor3:9-17. The building. In 2Cor11:2 he will use a 3^rd metaphor: the bride. In Eph.3:15 & 5:27 he uses the metaphor of the family.

The centre piece of his discussion on spiritual gifts is “the more excellent way” (12:31). I have done countless weddings where the couple have chosen 1Cor13 and especially vs4-7 to be read during the ceremony. It almost seems like a wishful prayer for how they want to be treated in the day to day turmoil of life. One inspired writer said it would be a good thing for us to read 1Cor.13 every day. There can be no greater pursuit in the Christian life than seeking to have the gospel and love of God find hands and feet and voice through us. This chapter invites us to participate in sharing God’s unconditional love.

The glowing words of 1Cor13 are impressive, possibly the most wonderful chapter in the NT. It could well be the greatest, strongest, deepest thing Paul ever wrote.  This chapter will teach us that Christ-like love is of heavenly birth, and that without it all other qualifications are worthless.