A more excellent way
In the same verse also, in which he calls this, the way of love, a more excellent way, he directs the Corinthians to desire other gifts besides it, yes, to desire them earnestly. Earnestly desire, he says, the best gifts, and yet I show you a more excellent way (1 Corinthians 12:31). More excellent than what? Than the gifts of healing, of speaking with tongues (1 Corinthians 12:28), and of interpreting, mentioned in the preceding verse. But not more excellent than the way of obedience. Of this the apostle is not speaking. Neither is he speaking of outward religion at all. So that this text is quite wide of the present question.
1771 text
In the same verse also, wherein he terms this, the way of love, a more excellent way, he directs the Corinthians to desire other gifts besides it: Yea to desire them earnestly. Covet earnestly, saith he, the best gifts: and yet I shew unto you a more excellent way. More excellent than what? Than the gifts of healing, of speaking with tongues, and of interpreting, mentioned in the preceding verse. But not more excellent than the way of obedience. Of this the apostle is not speaking. Neither is he speaking of outward religion at all. So that this text is quite wide of the present question.
About this text
Rendered in modern English, to be read and heard. Open the 1771 text under each part to check the claims and the scripture.
Rendered in modern English. The 1771 panel is his own Pine printing of the Works. It is public domain.
Catalogue & scope
Sermon 24 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:13-16.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.