Pursuing Spiritual Gifts: Understanding Orderly Worship in 1 Corinthians 14

Executive Summary

1 Corinthians 14 is a cornerstone of understanding spiritual gifts within the context of orderly worship. The Apostle Paul passionately urges believers to prioritize prophecy over tongues for the sake of edification, emphasizing that prophecy builds up the church while tongues, without interpretation, benefit only the speaker. Paul meticulously outlines guidelines for speaking in tongues and prophesying during church gatherings, stressing the importance of intelligibility and order. He underscores that spiritual gifts are not meant to cause chaos or confusion but to foster understanding, peace, and spiritual growth within the body of Christ. Ultimately, the pursuit of spiritual gifts must be governed by love and directed towards the common good, ensuring that worship is both fervent and intelligible, pleasing to God and beneficial to all who participate. This chapter advocates for efficient church communication and structures.

This chapter of 1 Corinthians emphasizes the crucial role of understandable communication in worship. The Apostle Paul underscores that worship should edify the church, prioritizing prophecy – which is understood by all – over speaking in tongues without interpretation. This verse-by-verse exploration delves into the spiritual depth and practical applications of Paul’s guidance, illuminating how we can cultivate a vibrant and ordered worship experience today.

Commentary Sections

1 Corinthians 14:1-3

Verse 1 (KJV): Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.

Verse 1 (NKJV): Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.

Greek: Διώκετε τὴν ἀγάπην, ζηλοῦτε δὲ τὰ πνευματικά, μᾶλλον δὲ ἵνα προφητεύητε.

Paul begins with an overarching principle: love (ἀγάπη). Love must be the foundation upon which all spiritual pursuits are built. The verb “follow after” or “pursue” (διώκετε) suggests a deliberate and active striving for love. Simultaneously, believers are encouraged to “desire” (ζηλοῦτε) spiritual gifts (τὰ πνευματικά), indicating a healthy longing for empowerment by the Holy Spirit. However, Paul immediately clarifies his preference: “but especially that you may prophesy” (μᾶλλον δὲ ἵνα προφητεύητε). Prophecy, in this context, isn’t necessarily foretelling the future, but rather speaking forth God’s word in a way that edifies, exhorts, and comforts (verse 3).

St. Athanasius the Apostolic, in *Contra Gentes*, reminds us: “Ἡ γὰρ ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐκκέχυται ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου τοῦ δοθέντος ἡμῖν.” (For the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.) This love, infused by the Holy Spirit, should guide our desire for spiritual gifts, ensuring they are used for the benefit of others, not for selfish ambition.

Spiritual Application: We must always examine our motives when seeking spiritual gifts. Is it for personal recognition, or genuine desire to serve God and His Church through effectiv ewebsites?

Verse 2 (KJV): For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

Verse 2 (NKJV): For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

Paul now contrasts tongues with prophecy. Speaking in an “unknown tongue” (γλώσσῃ λαλεῖ) is directed towards God, not men. While it’s a valid form of prayer and communion, its inherent limitation is that “no one understands him” (οὐδεὶς γὰρ ἀκούει). Paul acknowledges that the speaker utters “mysteries” (μυστήρια) “in the spirit” (πνεύματι), implying a divine origin and purpose. However, the absence of understanding hinders edification.

The urban environment of Corinth, a melting pot of cultures and languages, likely contributed to the prominence of tongues within the Corinthian church. However, Paul emphasizes that spiritual gifts must serve the purpose of building up the entire community, not just the individual.

Spiritual Application: Private prayer languages can be edifying in our personal walk with God, but public worship requires clear and understandable communication.

Verse 3 (KJV): But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.

Verse 3 (NKJV): But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.

In stark contrast to tongues, prophecy (προφητεύων) is explicitly directed “unto men” (ἀνθρώποις λαλεῖ). Its purpose is threefold: “edification” (οἰκοδομὴν), building up the church; “exhortation” (παράκλησιν), encouraging and challenging believers; and “comfort” (παραμυθίαν), offering solace and strength. Prophecy, therefore, is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and encouragement within the community.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on 1 Corinthians, emphasizes that prophecy, guided by the Holy Spirit, reveals the divine will and imparts spiritual understanding to the hearers. This understanding, in turn, strengthens their faith and motivates them to live according to God’s commandments.

Spiritual Application: When speaking to others about faith, strive to edify, encourage, and comfort, rather than to simply impress or prove a point.

1 Corinthians 14:4-5

Verse 4 (KJV): He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

Verse 4 (NKJV): He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

Paul emphasizes the different scope of impact. Speaking in tongues primarily “edifies himself” (ἑαυτὸν οἰκοδομεῖ). While there’s inherent value in personal spiritual growth, Paul reiterates that prophecy “edifies the church” (τὴν ἐκκλησίαν οἰκοδομεῖ). The focus should be on the collective benefit of the community.

The concept of “edification” (οἰκοδομεῖ) is crucial here. It refers to the building up of the spiritual temple, the body of Christ. Paul uses this architectural metaphor throughout his letters to emphasize the importance of unity and growth within the church.

Spiritual Application: Prioritize actions that build up the body of Christ over those that solely benefit yourself.

Verse 5 (KJV): I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

Verse 5 (NKJV): I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.

Paul clarifies that he’s not denouncing tongues. He expresses a desire that “ye all spoke with tongues” (πάντες ἐλάλειτε γλώσσαις). However, he “rather” (μᾶλλον) desires that they prophesied, because “he who prophesies is greater” (μείζων ὁ προφητεύων). This is conditional: tongues are valuable if there is interpretation (ἑρμηνεύσῃ), so that “the church may receive edifying” (ἵνα ἡ ἐκκλησία οἰκοδομὴν λάβῃ). The key is understandability and its resulting benefit to the community.

The geographical context is also relevant. Corinth was a major port city, exposed to various languages and cultures. The temptation to display linguistic prowess might have overshadowed the genuine purpose of spiritual gifts. Paul’s emphasis on interpretation serves as a safeguard against such vanity.

Spiritual Application: Understand the intended purpose and impact of your actions. Even seemingly good things can become distractions if they don’t ultimately edify the church.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33: Guidelines for Orderly Worship

Verse 26 (KJV): How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

Verse 26 (NKJV): How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.

Paul addresses the chaos he likely witnessed in Corinthian worship services. He observes the abundance of contributions – psalms, teachings, tongues, revelations, interpretations – but emphasizes that “all things be done unto edifying” (πάντα πρὸς οἰκοδομὴν γινέσθω). This is the overarching principle guiding their gatherings.

The Didache, an early Christian manual, offers a similar emphasis on order and edification in worship. While it doesn’t directly address tongues and prophecy, it provides guidelines for prayer, fasting, and the celebration of the Eucharist, all aimed at spiritual growth and unity.

Spiritual Application: Consider how your actions contribute to the overall edification of the worship service. Are you adding to the unity and understanding, or causing confusion and distraction?

Verse 27 (KJV): If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.

Verse 27 (NKJV): If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.

Paul provides specific guidelines for speaking in tongues: limit it to “two, or at the most by three” (δύο ἢ τὸ πολύ τρεῖς), “each in turn” (κατὰ μέρος), and require “one interpret” (εἷς δὲ διερμηνευέτω). These restrictions are designed to prevent chaos and ensure that the gift is used for the intended purpose: edification through interpretation.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that the exercise of spiritual gifts requires self-control and consideration for others.

Verse 28 (KJV): But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

Verse 28 (NKJV): But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.

A critical condition: “if there be no interpreter” (ἐὰν δὲ μὴ ᾖ διερμηνευτής), the speaker must “keep silence in the church” (σιγάτω ἐν ἐκκλησίᾳ). They can still speak “to himself, and to God” (ἑαυτῷ δὲ λαλείτω καὶ τῷ Θεῷ), indicating the legitimacy of private prayer in tongues, but public display without interpretation is forbidden.

Spiritual Application: Humility and self-restraint are essential virtues when exercising spiritual gifts in a public setting.

Verse 29 (KJV): Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

Verse 29 (NKJV): Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge.

Similar guidelines apply to prophecy. “Let two or three prophets speak” (προφῆται δὲ δύο ἢ τρεῖς λαλείτωσαν), and “let the other judge” (καὶ οἱ ἄλλοι διακρινέτωσαν). This emphasizes the importance of discernment and accountability within the prophetic ministry. The community is responsible for evaluating the message against Scripture and sound doctrine.

Spiritual Application: Subject your prophetic utterances (and any spiritual guidance) to the scrutiny of Scripture and the wisdom of trusted spiritual mentors.

Verse 30 (KJV): If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.

Verse 30 (NKJV): But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent.

This verse promotes order and respect. “If anything be revealed to another” (ἐὰν δὲ ἄλλῳ ἀποκαλυφθῇ), “let the first hold his peace” (σιγάτω ὁ πρῶτος). The emphasis is on yielding to the Spirit’s leading and avoiding monopolization of the service.

Spiritual Application: Be willing to yield to the Spirit’s leading, even if it means stepping aside to allow others to minister.

Verse 31 (KJV): For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.

Verse 31 (NKJV): For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged.

Paul reaffirms the potential for widespread participation in prophecy: “ye may all prophesy one by one” (δύνασθε γὰρ καθ’ ἕνα πάντες προφητεύειν). The purpose is clear: “that all may learn, and all may be comforted” (ἵνα πάντες μαθῶσιν καὶ πάντες παρακληθῶσιν).

Spiritual Application: Cultivate an environment where everyone feels empowered to share their gifts and contribute to the spiritual growth of the community.

Verse 32 (KJV): And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.

Verse 32 (NKJV): And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.

A crucial principle for maintaining order: “the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets” (πνεύματα προφητῶν προφήταις ὑποτάσσεται). This indicates that prophetic utterances should be controlled by the speaker, not an uncontrollable, ecstatic outpouring. True spiritual manifestation doesn’t override self-control.

Spiritual Application: True spirituality is characterized by self-control and obedience to God’s order.

Verse 33 (KJV): For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Verse 33 (NKJV): For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

Paul concludes this section with a fundamental theological truth: “God is not the author of confusion, but of peace” (οὐ γάρ ἐστιν ἀκαταστασίας ὁ Θεὸς ἀλλὰ εἰρήνης). This principle applies “as in all churches of the saints” (ὡς ἐν πάσαις ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῶν ἁγίων), implying a universal standard for orderly worship.

St. Macarius the Great speaks of the “peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) as the ultimate goal of the spiritual life. This peace, he argues, is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep inner harmony that results from union with God.

Spiritual Application: Strive to create an atmosphere of peace and order in all your interactions, reflecting the character of God.

Subtopic Sections

The Priority of Understandable Communication

Paul’s emphasis on understandable communication highlights the fundamental purpose of worship: to connect with God and with one another in a meaningful way.

• Edification is paramount: All actions in worship should aim at building up the spiritual lives of believers.
• Love motivates edification: Love for God and for one another should drive the desire for spiritual gifts and their proper use.
• Interpretation bridges the gap: When tongues are used, interpretation is essential for understanding and edification.
• Order prevents chaos: Guidelines for participation (limiting speakers, allowing for judgment) ensure a peaceful and productive environment.
• Humility fosters unity: Yielding to the Spirit’s leading and respecting others creates an atmosphere of harmony.

Spiritual Gifts and the Common Good

The exercise of spiritual gifts is not about individual display but about serving the common good of the church.

• Gifts are given for service: Spiritual gifts are tools for ministry, not trophies for personal achievement.
• Discernment is necessary: The church must evaluate prophetic utterances and other spiritual manifestations against Scripture and sound doctrine.
• Self-control is a mark of maturity: True spiritual expression is characterized by self-control and respect for order.
• Unity is the goal: The ultimate aim of worship is to strengthen the bonds of fellowship and promote spiritual growth.
• Peace reflects God’s character: An atmosphere of peace and order reflects the character of God and allows for genuine worship.

FAQ ❓

Q: What is the Coptic Orthodox understanding of speaking in tongues?

A: The Coptic Orthodox Church recognizes the historical manifestation of tongues as a genuine spiritual gift. However, we emphasize the importance of interpretation for the edification of the church, aligning with Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 14. Private prayer in tongues is permissible, but public display without interpretation is discouraged.

Q: How do we balance the desire for spiritual gifts with the need for order in worship?

A: Balance is achieved through love, humility, and discernment. Love motivates us to seek gifts for the benefit of others. Humility allows us to yield to the Spirit’s leading and respect established order. Discernment helps us to evaluate spiritual manifestations against Scripture and sound doctrine, ensuring that they align with God’s will and purpose.

Q: What practical steps can we take to cultivate orderly worship in our church?

A: Encourage open communication and mutual respect among members. Educate believers on the purpose and proper use of spiritual gifts. Establish clear guidelines for participation in worship services. Promote an atmosphere of prayer and discernment, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 14 provides timeless wisdom for cultivating vibrant and orderly worship. The Apostle Paul’s emphasis on prophecy, interpretation, and self-control challenges us to prioritize the edification of the church above personal expression. By seeking spiritual gifts in love, exercising them with humility, and submitting to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can create an environment where all may learn, be comforted, and grow in faith. Ultimately, the goal is to reflect the character of God, who is not the author of confusion but of peace. As we strive for effective church communication, let love and understanding be our guiding principles, ensuring that our worship is both fervent and intelligible, pleasing to God and beneficial to all who participate.

Tags

spiritual gifts, prophecy, tongues, interpretation, orderly worship, edification, Corinth, Pauline theology, Coptic Orthodox, church leadership

Meta Description

Explore 1 Corinthians 14 and learn about the importance of orderly worship. Discover how prophecy and tongues, when properly practiced, can edify the church and promote spiritual growth. Understand the key principles for cultivating vibrant and meaningful worship experiences.