From the Pulpit...

By reminding the Corinthians of their former false worship, Paul sets the stage for the discussion about spiritual gifts. Whatever spiritual gifts are, the are not anything like the strange and unholy things that they had experienced in the mystery cults or idol worship services. The content of speech and doctrine connected with true gifts of the Spirit centers around the person and work of Jesus Christ. If the “gift” does not extol Jesus as Lord, then it is not of the Holy Spirit—for the Spirit takes what is Christ’s and passes it to the followers of Christ in order to glorify Christ. Spiritual gifts are not about the recipient of the gift; they are about serving the giver of the gifts!