SEEK THAT YE MAY EXCEL TO…EDIFYING

In chapter 14 Paul continues with his exposition of spiritual gifts by explaining how they should operate in the public services of an assembly gathering. He reminds the believers of fundamental principles that should always govern the meetings of the church. Whilst the contextual interpretation of his words relates specifically to two of the temporary foundational gifts, prophecy and tongues, the application is just as relevant today.

In verses 1-5 he deals with the principle of edification, the spiritual ‘building up’ of saints. This involved highlighting a problem at Corinth, where believers were glorifying themselves through ‘speaking in tongues’ to the detriment of their fellow Christians. To outline the importance of clear communication, Paul uses the three illustrations of music, military signals and general conversation, vv. 6-11. All vocal activity in the church should be so clear that everyone understands, enjoys and benefits. Note, in verse 10, he gives a clear indication that biblical tongues are known languages rather than gobbledegook!

In verses 12-19 Paul continues the theme of understanding, showing that the speaker should take part ‘with the spirit’, which means ‘with the mind fully operating’, vv. 12-15. This is a lesson both to speakers and hearers, vv. 16-19, for the latter should be able to follow what is said and add ‘amen’, signalling their agreement. In his notes on 1 Corinthians 14, David N ewell summarises these verses thus: ‘all spiritual exercise, prayer, singing, giving of thanks, should aim at the blessing of believers in the assembly. In assembly gatherings we do nothing simply for ourselves, for we are part of a larger company and our contribution (or lack of it) will have an influence for good or ill on the company as a whole. Our participation in the meeting should encourage other believers to understand, agree and join with us by saying “Amen”’.

In conclusion, we should carefully note what Paul writes in verse 19. Far more important to Paul than any opportunity for self-display or self-promotion was the spiritual encouragement of God’s people. This is done today by the faithful teaching of the word.