1 CORINTHIANS 14 - SPIRITUAL GIFTS FOR EDIFICATION OF THE CHURCH

 

1 CORINTHIANS 14  is another doctrinal instruction and advice of Paul to the church. He explained about the preeminence of the prophecy over the gift of tongues and the importance of maintaining proper order in the public assemblies. 

Paul emphasized:

1. Pursue love and desire spiritual gift but especially that you may prophesy. 

                - Tongues speak to God unless interpreted

                - Prophecy speaks to people for edification, exhortation and comfort

                    *** Gifts are more valuable/spiritual when they build others - not to draw attention to self. 

2. Gifts are for the church not for personal display

            - be mature

                            : tongues can confuse unbelievers but prophecy can convict hearts and God's presence

            - outsiders must be helped encounter God not confuse them.

3.  Proper Order in the assemblies

            - God is the God of order not confusion (v26-33)

                        : speak in tongues in turns

                        :interpret tongues

                         : evaluate prophecies

            - REMEMBER SPIRITUAL FREEDOM DOES NOT MEAN DISORDER - THE HOLY SPIRIT PRODUCES PEACE AND CLARITY

                        : order reflects God's character

Let's ask ourselves:

    - Does my worship build others?

    - Does my gift draw people closer to Christ

    - Does my church gathering reflect peace and clarity?

Let us pray:

Lord,
Teach us to pursue love above all things.
Help us use every gift You give to build others, not ourselves.
May our worship reflect Your peace, Your order, and Your presence.
Let everything we do in the church glorify You and strengthen Your people.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.