"The Gift of Spirit"(1 Corinthians 14:1-12)

1 Corinthians 14:1-12

In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul addresses the gift of tongues and prophecy. In the past the church witnessed manifestations of the Holy Spirit, and these days we still see the manifestations of tongues and prophecy.  Many of us want to experience the Holy Spirit and Paul advices that we should seek love and genuinely want spiritual gifts.

Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.

1 Corinthians 14:1 ESV

Later, Paul explains that tongues is used to speak to God and not to members of the congregation. Although we can speak to God in our normal language, we can also use tongues to speak to God in spirit.

For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.

1 Corinthians 14:2 ESV

Paul goes on further to explain that prophecy is used to edify the church. When we prophesy, it is to encourage and strengthen the members of the church.

On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.

1 Corinthians 14:3 ESV

Paul seems to further explain that prophecy is better because it is for the church; however, Paul is not explaining the two gifts but rather explaining gifts in general. We can use gifts from God just for ourselves or use them for the community. Paul tells us gifts used for others is better than using it for ourselves.

The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.

1 Corinthians 14:4‭-‬5 ESV

Paul encourages us to use our gifts for others and not just for ourselves because unless our gifts are used in a proper way, they are meaningless.  It is not to say that speaking in tongues is useless,  but if we do not have concern for others and the speaking in tongues is not interpreted,  the gift of tongues is made meaningless and only adds confusions. 

If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air.

1 Corinthians 14:7‭-‬9 ESV

For Christian, freedom is to serve others for God's glory and not ourselves for our glory. 

So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

1 Corinthians 14:12 ESV

These days it is not uncommon for parents to try to teach their children to pray in tongues. Yet, if you want to learn tongues, pray with love and have a heart for others. To have the Holy Spirit, understand that you already have the gift of the Holy Sprit. We just need to use the spirit in love and for others. We need to think how we can use our own gifts for others. 

Worship Songs

Still

Your Grace Is Enough 

How Great Is Our God