The Apostle now reveals the greatness of charity by comparing it with the very gifts that men most admire. Prophecy, tongues, and knowledge were highly esteemed among the Corinthians because they appeared marvelous and powerful. Yet all these things belong to the present life and are given only for a time. They are remedies for weakness, helps for instruction, signs for unbelievers, and guides for those still journeying toward perfection. But charity belongs not merely to this life—it belongs also to eternity. Therefore, while the other gifts pass away, charity remains forever. (St. John Chrysostom)

“Charity never falleth away.” The Fathers dwell especially upon these words because they reveal that charity already participates in the life of heaven. In this world faith believes what it cannot yet see, and knowledge remains partial and imperfect. But in eternal life the soul shall behold God face to face. Then prophecy will no longer be needed, for all things shall be fulfilled; instruction will cease, because truth itself shall be possessed directly. Yet charity will not disappear when these things pass away. Rather, it will be perfected. For heaven itself is nothing other than the soul’s complete union with God in love. (St. Augustine)

The Apostle does not despise spiritual gifts; indeed, they come from God and are good in their proper place. But he wishes to heal the soul from attachment to what is temporary. Men easily become fascinated by what is extraordinary, visible, and admired by others. Thus they may begin to seek spiritual gifts for their own exaltation rather than for the love of God. Charity alone cannot be corrupted in this way, because true charity always bends the soul outward toward God and neighbor instead of inward toward pride. (St. John Chrysostom)

Augustine teaches that all the commandments, all the labors of the Christian life, and all the gifts given by God are ordered toward one final end: perfect charity. The soul was created for communion with God, and therefore it remains restless until it rests in Him through love. Everything else belongs to the road; charity belongs both to the road and to the homeland. Thus the Christian life is not merely preparation for heaven, but the gradual beginning of heaven itself within the soul through charity. (St. Augustine)

Sources: St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on First Corinthians, Homily 34; St. Augustine, sermons and writings on charity, eternity, and the vision of God.