Pursue love and desire spiritual gifts but especially that you may prophesy[1]
[1] The Greek word, propheteuo, G4395 (verb), is one of several words translated as prophesy. It means to foretell; break forth under divine impulse; speak forth under divine inspiration; declare a thing which can only be known by divine revelation. Some say it has a simple meaning of preaching, and indeed, all preaching should be speaking forth under divine inspiration, but that is not always the case. In any case, the Bible differentiates between preachers, teachers, prophets, and their respective gifts. All are ministry gifts of the Holy Spirit, given to the Church [until Jesus returns and makes all things complete] but they are not the same gift.
In this passage, Paul encourages believers to desire but not pursue spiritual gifts. Pursue only love and desire spiritual gifts and most especially desire that they might be used in the gift of prophecy, as this gift builds up and encourages others.
This is an excerpt from The Hungry Hearts Bible Commentary edited by this author.
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