How do we approach the role of spiritual gifts in church? Do some people have more value because they appear to take more prominence? In this passage Paul lays the foundation for everything he will go on to say in 1 Corinthians 12-14 about spiritual gifts and our use of them in church life. Who is “spiritual”? Who is able to be of use in church life? What are gifts anyway, and what are they for? What Paul says here is essential to know before we dive into wider discussions about spiritual gifts.