1 Corinthians 14: 1-5
Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit. But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.
A Thought
Paul is teaching Christian order in the church at Corinth, along with our current day church if we will receive it as Godly instruction. The Holy Spirit should be at work in all the body of Christ. We are all given Spiritual gifts to work together in love to minister the grace and forgiveness to all people. Love is the greatest gift in which all gifts must operate to make the body complete. The first gift that we receive is the gift of Salvation: at this point we receive the Spirit of God living within us. We should desire spiritual gifts, which there are many, to give us the power we need to perform our part of being the body of Christ. Today Paul helps us to understand the gift of tongues. Tongues are used to speak directly to God even when we do not know how or what we are to speak or just to praise him because he is worthy. One who speaks in tongues edifies himself. Tongues are to be active in church when they are revealed by knowledge of interpretation and spoken clearly so that all can receive, be encouraged and edified. Paul says that we should desire tongues and pray that we may interpret, but in the church speak where all can understand and receive instruction.
Our Prayer
Father help us to understand the power of your Holy Spirit and not to be afraid to desire spiritual gifts to use in ministry for you. Help us to be a powerful church operating in truth and love. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
