1:7 part 1

Because the Corinthians believed in Christ, they (as a Body) did not lack any spiritual gift. This statement reminds the Corinthians that Jesus is the Source of all the spiritual gifts. The church should not be proud about having spiritual gifts, because all are from Christ. It is not absolutely certain that Paul is talking about spiritual gifts in the way we think of "spiritual gifts" -- perhaps he speaks of the best gift of redemption -- but in Fee's mind, and in mine (for what that's worth), I think that he is. The Corinthians were very interested in spiritual gifts (see chapters 12-14) and Paul's just mentioned how they were enriched in all speaking and knowledge.

All of this reminds us, though, that Jesus is the Gift, as I mentioned in a previous post. If we have Jesus, then we have all that we need (as John reminds us, "He who has the Son has life. He who does not have the Son of God does not have life." 1 John 5:12). If we don't have Jesus, then all we are and have will turn to dust. Except for the spiritual part of us, which will live forever separated from God in eternal death (hell). Ouch. Why would I say something like that? Because it is true. Certainly not because it's something anybody wants to hear or talk about.

Jesus is Immanuel, God With Us. He is really with His people. His presence brings all the gifts that we need. This is another way that the rock in the desert symbolized Christ - it provided the gift of water that the Israelites needed to survive. Note that the water was a physical gift. Suppose God had said, "Well, you have peace and joy in My Presence - can't you just forget about the physical needs?" But that's not how God is - He provides for what we need (see Matthew 6:25-34).