Here we have probably the best known words Paul ever wrote. Paul has just spent the last chapter convincing the Corinthians that spiritual gifts come in many forms, and that each form is as valuable and worthy as any of the others.

Using his famous "body" analogy, Paul has made a strong case for the interdependence of all manifestations of the Spirit. Suddenly, as though afraid the Corinthians might miss something obvious, Paul abruptly re-directs his focus. Having validated the equality and equanimity of all spiritual gifts, he now notes the one hierarchical exception: love.

While the chapter comprises a complete unit in itself, it does contain several different, although Pauline, styles and strains within it. Style breaks occur between verses 3 and 4, and again between verses 7 and 8, cr…