In his first letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul provides one of the most profound treatises on love (charity in the KJV) found in Scripture. Yet amidst his poetic discourse on love's supremacy, he also gives valuable insight into the spectacular gifts granted by the Holy Spirit. Agape is the Greek word translated into English as charity. However, agape love is a very distinct concept from other types of love. Agape is a selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love that is a choice of the will, not based on emotions or circumstances. It is the highest form of love.

From this passage, we can clearly discern that the miraculous gifts of the Spirit - prophecy, tongues, knowledge - will one day be rendered obsolete. However, the great virtues of faith, hope, and charity will endure for eternity. This raises an important question - if the spiritual gifts will ultimately cease, does that mean they are not operative today?

To answer, we must consider the context. Paul's intent was to emphasize charity's eternal primacy over the temporary spiritual gifts. He was not stating that the gifts would categorically cease in the present age before Christ's return. In fact, Paul himself expected the charismata (spiritual gifts) to remain active among believers until the Lord's second coming.

This is evident from 1 Corinthians 1:7 - "So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." The miraculous spiritual gifts were manifesting among the Corinthian believers as they awaited Christ's glorious return, which has yet to occur. The gifts were not ceased but remained vital signs of the powerful Holy Spirit at work.

Love's preeminence did not negate the importance of the spiritual gifts for the church age. As Paul taught in 1 Corinthians 14:1, "Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." The way of love (charity) was to be pursued, but the gifts were to be eagerly desired as well.

Though the eternal virtues of faith, hope, and charity will outlast the present spiritual gifts, Scripture does not relegate these supernatural enablements to the past. The gifts are very much operative among believers as we await Christ's return, at which time "that which is perfect is come" (1 Corinthians 13:10).

But when is this time of perfection? Paul reveals it in verse 12 - "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." The miraculous gifts are vital until we finally see the Lord face to face and know Him fully, just as He knows us. Only then will the partial gifts "be done away" as their purpose is made complete in His glorious presence (1 Corinthians 13:10).

Until that day, we are to eagerly desire and freely exercise the powerful gifts of the Spirit for the edification of the church:

• Word of Wisdom - By the Spirit's wisdom, we discern the mind of Christ for guidance on matters requiring supernatural strategy (1 Corinthians 12:8). This divine insight directs the body to make Spirit-led decisions and moves according to God's perfect will.
• Word of Knowledge - The Spirit reveals facts and information that could not be known by natural means (1 Corinthians 12:8). Through this gift, that which is hidden is supernaturally revealed for instruction, correction, and edification.
• Faith - Not saving faith, but a supernatural endowment of the Spirit to receive miracles and confidently move spiritual mountains that cannot be moved by natural abilities (1 Corinthians 12:9). It is the faith that does not waver in believing God's promises.
• Gifts of Healings - By the Spirit's power, the physical, emotional, and mental sicknesses and afflictions of others are miraculously healed (1 Corinthians 12:9). This confirms the Lord's compassion and might over all manner of disease.
• Working of Miracles - The Spirit enables the supernatural interruption and alteration of natural laws (1 Corinthians 12:10). These signs and wonders manifest God's power and authenticate His message.
• Prophecy - The Spirit reveals divine mysteries, counsels, and exhortations that edify believers (1 Corinthians 12:10). This apocalyptic gift unveils the heart and plans of God.
• Discerning of Spirits - By the Spirit's discernment, one can perceive the operations and sources of spiritual forces and influences at work (1 Corinthians 12:10). This equips one to combat evil and stand firm against spiritual deception.
• Diverse Kinds of Tongues - The supernatural ability to speak in languages previously unknown to the speaker for spiritual edification through praise, prayer, and prophecy (1 Corinthians 12:10). This gift builds up one's spirit and facilitates communion with God.
• Interpretation of Tongues - The Spirit grants the ability to interpret the supernatural utterances spoken in tongues into the common tongue (1 Corinthians 12:10). This provides meaning and understanding of the tongues for the body's edification.

These gifts are not mere parlor tricks but divine manifestations that glorify God, build up the church, and authenticate His message.

One day the partial gifts will be obsolete when we finally see the Lord face to face and know Him perfectly, just as we are known (1 Corinthians 13:12). But until that glorious day arrives, let us fervently desire each gift of the Spirit, exercising them in perfect love. As we await Christ's imminent return, we desperately need the Spirit's fullness - the eternal way of love, and the powerful, supernatural gifts that confirm His presence among us.

For now, we see through a glass darkly. But then, face to face, the perfect will have finally come! Until that day, let the gifts have their proper place among the body of Christ.