Order and Edification in the Expression of Spiritual Gifts

In 1 Corinthians 14 (can be read here), Paul discusses the appropriate expression and use of spiritual gifts in the church. The Corinthian church was passionate about spiritual gifts, and Paul encourages them to direct their enthusiasm toward using their gifts to strengthen and edify the church.

One of the commentaries beautifully summarises the main aspects of what Paul addresses in this passage and it very much applies to us as a church in this day and age.  “There was a tendency for some of the Corinthians to lose control of themselves as they exercised their gifts, and Paul had to remind them of the fundamental principles that ought to govern the public meetings of the church. There are three principles: edification, understanding, and order.” [Note: Wiersbe, 1:612.]

Tongues and Prophecy

As Paul continues, he highlights the gifts of tongues and prophecy. Prophecy, when shared, is clear and beneficial to those who hears it. Tongues, however, do not benefit the listener unless they are interpreted. Paul teaches and reminds the church in Corinth—and us today—that when gathering for worship, there should be understanding, order, and edification in the expression of spiritual gifts.

In the comparison between Tongues and Prophecy, Paul specifically focused on the gift of tongues without interpretation. His main concern was the purpose of these God-given gifts, which was to build up the church. Paul did not dismiss the gift of tongues itself but emphasized its proper role in corporate worship when used without interpretation.

It is worth noting that when Paul talks about prophecy, whatever is spoken is done underscoring the edification, exhortation and consolation of the hearers as the main ways it builds up the church rather than just a prediction of what is to happen in the future.

Paul emphasized that listeners gain no benefit from what they cannot understand, using musical instruments as an example. While an instrument may produce sounds, without distinct notes, the listener cannot make sense of it.

Focus on being a Blessing

Paul’s words in verses 18 and 19 “I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. But in the church, I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.”; affirm that he recognized the great value of the gift of tongues in his personal devotional life with the Lord. However, when gathered with other Christians, his focus was on being a blessing rather than receiving one—a humbling reminder for us all. Often, when we come together for worship, we tend to think about what we can gain and view church through that lens. But Paul challenges us to shift our perspective, encouraging us not to focus solely on receiving or being blessed, but to serve and be a blessing to others.

Order in Worship

Paul emphasises that when there are more than one who wishes to speak, they should wait their turn and speak one at a time, again ensuring order and understanding so those listening can benefit from the word spoken.

With regards to verses 34 and 35 “Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.” I share the enduring word commentary on this section – “Paul has already assumed the right of women to pray or prophecy publicly (1 Cor 11:1-16). In those times, men and women sat in different groups at church. Among the Christians in Corinth, there seems to have been the problem of women chattering or disrupting the meetings with questions. The context suggests ‘speak‘ refers to either the judging of prophecy (something for the leadership of the church to do) or towards disruptive speaking.”

Paul closes this passage with the words “Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”  This beautifully summarises how God desires not for man to bring chaos and folly in the expression of gifts, but to ensure that order and understanding outline all of it so that those who gathered are edified both in spirit and in their mind.

God Bless.