Monday, 9 February 2015
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. 1 Corinthians 14:26
Paul’s words in this verse are for proper order in the church and they are based on what he has said in the preceding verses concerning tongues. When the whole congregation is speaking in tongues and an uninformed visitor comes in, he will think everyone is crazy. This is certainly not how a church should be conducted and so he asks, “How is it then, brethren?” In essence, “What is the proper way of conducting oneself in the church?”
In response to his own question, he provides the answer. “Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation.” The Spirit has given various gifts to the body and He has distributed those gifts according to His will. But each gift needs to be brought out at the proper time. In just a few verses, he is going to note that God is the author of peace, not confusion. As this is so, then blurting out nonsense or cutting others off with a “tongue” or a “revelation” cannot be of God.
The Holy Spirit will never inspire anyone to do anything which is contrary to His nature; therefore, the conduct of those in Corinth could not be Spirit-led. Instead, their actions were merely for self-aggrandizement. Because of this, Paul will give very explicit instructions concerning the use of tongues. These instructions will confirm for all future church gatherings that those who do not follow them are not Spirit-led in their actions.
One mark of a church that is properly adhering to God’s word, and to the leading of the Spirit, is that they will, “let all things be done for edification.”
Life application: Edification of the body is a necessary component of the gathering together of the saints. If this is not occurring, then the gathering is a wasted effort. Remember this and be a person who edifies others.
Lord God, I so very much look forward to the day ahead. To me, it is the great unknown. Each step is heading down a path I have never been. To me, what others might find disturbing is exciting. And the reason is that You are in my life. No matter what lies ahead, be it good or be it ill, I know that You are with me through it. With this great assurance, I am at peace and I am confident of a good outcome in the end. Thank You for Your steadfast presence in my life. Amen.