1Cor 12:31 | RWP | e4.org | The greater gifts ( τα χαρισματα τα μειζονα ). Paul unhesitatingly ranks some spiritual gifts above others. Ζηλοω here has good sense, not that of envy as in ; . And a still more excellent way ( κα ετ καθ' υπερβολην οδον ). In order to gain the greater gifts. "I show you a way par excellence ," beyond all comparison (superlative idea in this adjunct, not comparative), like καθ' υπερβολην εις υπερβολην ( ). Hυπερβολη is old word from υπερβαλλω , to throw beyond, to surpass, to excel ( ; ). "I show you a supremely excellent way." Chapter is this way, the way of love already laid down in concerning the question of meats offered to idols (cf. ). Poor division of chapters here. This verse belongs with chapter .

‏ 1 Corinthians 12:31

The greater gifts ( τα χαρισματα τα μειζονα ). Paul unhesitatingly ranks some spiritual gifts above others. Ζηλοω here has good sense, not that of envy as in Ac 7:9; 1Co 13:4.

And a still more excellent way ( κα ετ καθ' υπερβολην οδον ). In order to gain the greater gifts. "I show you a way par excellence," beyond all comparison (superlative idea in this adjunct, not comparative), like καθ' υπερβολην εις υπερβολην (2Co 4:17). Hυπερβολη is old word from υπερβαλλω, to throw beyond, to surpass, to excel (2Co 3:10; Eph 1:19). "I show you a supremely excellent way." Chapter 1Co 13 is this way, the way of love already laid down in 8:1 concerning the question of meats offered to idols (cf. 1Jo 4:7). Poor division of chapters here. This verse belongs with chapter 1Co 13.