The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum 1 Corinthians 12:31

I just finished reading "Charismatic Chaos" by John MacArthur. I thought it was a great book. Anyway, when he is discussing 1 Corinthians 12:31 he says that the proper translation should be "But you are eagerly desiring the greater gifts," which uses an indicative verb instead of an imperative verb. I'll admit that the translation using the indicative verb is tempting because it would indicate that Paul is scolding the Corinthians for desiring spiritual gifts too much. But is this really the correct translation? I don't know Greek so I am unable to determine which is correct myself. Most translations use the imperative, with the NIV giving the indicative in a footnote.


NIV "But eagerly desire[1] the greater gifts.
And now I will show you the most excellent way."

NASB "But (1) earnestly desire the greater gifts. And I show you a still more excellent way."

KJV " But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."

ESV "But earnestly desire the higher gifts.And I will show you a still more excellent way."

NKJV "But earnestly desire the best[1] gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way."

John

The “imperative mood” is supported by two parallel texts that use the same verb in the imperative (1 Cor 14:1, 39). Paul uses the Greek verb zeloo; (I strive after something), which in this context communicates a positive meaning. Paul encourages the believers to use their spiritual gifts for the edification of the Christian community (the Greek noun zelotes, where we derive zealot means to do eagerly that which is good (Tit 2:14; 1 Pet 3:13). Apparently, the Corinthians gave the gift of tongue-speaking preeminence, but Paul puts it last in his list (vs. 10, 28, 30). Thus, Paul does not discount the value of the gift, but nonetheless he regards it as “the lowest of God’s spiritual blessings.” Thus, he urges them to strive for the greater gifts.