May 13, 2024
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 14:1-19
1 Corinthians 12:1 began with the words, "Now concerning spiritual gifts." Paul would write about the issue of spiritual gifts for 3 chapters. The main issue seems to be a misuse of the gift of tongues. The apostle speaks directly to that issue in chapter 14.
The Corinthians had elevated the gift of tongues to an unhealthy prominence. To put the gift of tongues in its proper place Paul draws a contrast between the gift of tongues and the gift of prophecy.
The gift of tongues was the supernatural ability to speak in another language. Unless someone knew that language or had the spiritual gift to be able to interpret what was being said, the utterance someone spoke would not be understood.
Better, says Paul, is the gift of prophecy. Prophecy was the capacity to receive a message from God and to declare it. In a worship service, this gift was better for building up the church because hearers would understand what was being spoken.
Though these gifts passed away with the apostolic age, the application of what is said in this passage is clear. Worship, whether individual or corporate, must be done with understanding and thoughtfulness. It is not mindless, nor is it merely an emotional experience. We must read our Bibles … and study them … for understanding. We must strive for understanding in what we sing. God is worshiped not only with our hearts, but with our heads.