1 Corinthians 12 and the Spiritual Gifts

[catholic_heart]

There has been lots of good discussion this week about the spiritual gifts enumerated in 1 Corinthians 12. I've certainly learned a great deal. I decided to consult the Church Fathers, and I came across this from St. John Chrysostom. He actually does a commentary on the entire chapter, but what I'm placing behind the cut is just two sections

Comments

[martiancyclist]

"It's a little long, but some may find it worthwhile."

Best description of Chrysostom I've ever heard.

[catholic_heart]

Hahaha, yep, pretty much :)

[susannah]

I like the way he points out that the gifts are not ends in themselves, as if something to take pride in, but are all part of the one service, the one ministry.

Whatever ways Godde uses us, we are empowered by the one Spirit, and it is to Godde we are drawn, if we seek to be available - not to the gifts for themselves to 'have' and to 'own'.

Therefore, our focus should simply be on Godde, and being available, and seeking to serve.

And then, if in having Godde we have all, we will be thankful simply to be used, and let Godde choose how he would empower us to be used and to serve and to love.