In these chapters Paul has much to say about the calling on the church, the body of believers, the body of Christ. He details first what the authority structure should look like. Then about the Lord's supper and its administration and how it is set apart from any other meal. Then he explains about spiritual gifts and how the same Spirit manifests through believers in a diverse way for the common good. But he also warns against elevating some gifts at the disregard of others. Instead he encourages a unity in the body that acknowledges each part and its unique roll in the whole. He then explains that although these spiritual gifts are important here on earth they are only temporary and a dim reflection of their future glory in the world to come and what is most important is Love, a love that never ends.
"Pursue Love" Paul commands and "earnestly desire the spiritual gifts..." and in particular prophesy. Why prophesy? Because prophecy by definition is upbuilding, encouraging and consoling for the church and this is Paul's heart for the church. As Christians he commends us to "strive to excel in building up the Church." Why? Because as the "outsider enters (into the church) he will be convicted by all, he will be called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed and so falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among (his Church)"
What greater calling to the Church can there be!?
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