The Verse in Focus (1 Corinthians 14:12)
οὕτω καὶ ὑμεῖς, ἐπεὶ ζηλωταί ἐστε πνευμάτων, πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας ζητεῖτε ἵνα περισσεύητε
οὕτω καὶ ὑμεῖς: Drawing the Reader In
The phrase οὕτω καὶ ὑμεῖς — “so also you” — connects this verse with the preceding discussion on tongues and prophecy. Paul now turns directly to the Corinthian believers, drawing a logical parallel: just as certain principles apply generally, so too must they apply to you.
This opening sets the tone: Paul is not condemning their spiritual zeal but reshaping its direction.
ἐπεὶ ζηλωταί ἐστε πνευμάτων: Recognizing Zeal
ἐπεὶ means “since” or “because,” introducing the reason for the exhortation. The phrase ζηλωταί ἐστε (“you are zealots/enthusiasts”) uses the noun ζηλωτής to describe intense desire or eagerness. The genitive πνευμάτων (“of spiritual gifts” or “of spirits”) likely refers to spiritual manifestations — such as tongues, prophecy, and discernment.
Paul affirms their spiritual passion, but does not leave it unqualified. The phrase acknowledges their desire but prepares to redirect it.
πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας: The Goal of Edification
πρὸς (“toward”) introduces purpose or aim. The noun οἰκοδομή (“building up,” “edification”) is a favorite of Paul when discussing the goal of spiritual gifts. This phrase — πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας — pinpoints the direction their zeal should take: toward the building up of the church.
It is not experience for its own sake, nor personal elevation, but corporate strengthening that is Paul’s aim.
ζητεῖτε ἵνα περισσεύητε: Pursue and Abound
ζητεῖτε is a present active imperative of ζητέω, meaning “seek,” “strive for,” or “pursue.” The imperative mood signals Paul’s call to action. What should they pursue? The answer comes in the subordinate clause: ἵνα περισσεύητε — “that you may abound.”
περισσεύητε is a present active subjunctive of περισσεύω, meaning “to overflow” or “abound.” The use of the subjunctive with ἵνα marks the intended result of their pursuit. Paul doesn’t just want them to use spiritual gifts — he wants them to overflow with them in a way that builds others up.
The Overflow That Builds
Paul’s sentence in 1 Corinthians 14:12 is a masterclass in pastoral redirection. He acknowledges spiritual fervor (ζηλωταί) but steers it with theological clarity. The grammar reveals not only action (ζητεῖτε) and purpose (ἵνα περισσεύητε), but also destination: οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας. In this single sentence, the apostle redefines greatness in the Spirit — not as mystical experience, but as overflowing contribution to the body of Christ.
