LORD’S DAY, DECEMBER 9
1 Corinthians 14:6-12
1 Corinthians 12:7-12

“Seek that ye may excel
to the edifying of the church.”

UNDERSTANDING IS THE KEY (I)

In 1 Corinthians 14:1-5, Paul stated that he would rather have the Corinthian Christians prophesy than speak in tongues. This was because the message of the one who prophesies would be understood. However, Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to understand that this did not mean that he disapproved of tongue-speaking. In fact, he would be glad if they could speak in tongues, provided they used their spiritual gift properly and wisely.

The gift of tongues could be very useful in a metropolitan and international city like Corinth. Having the ability to speak different languages would make it easier to communicate with foreigners and to share the gospel with them. The gift of tongues would also allow one to prophesy to others who did not speak the local language.

Paul then used music to illustrate the importance of understanding. Music is only intelligible when there is a distinct tune or melody. It is impossible to appreciate what is being played if it consists of just a single note, or just a cacophonic arrangement of notes. Similarly, a Roman soldier will find it hard to know when to go to war if the trumpet does not sound a tune which the Romans associated with war. Thus, it is important to speak to be understood, otherwise it will be as vain as one speaking into empty air. “I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me” (1 Cor 14:11b). In those days, Greek was the lingua franca. A person who spoke in a tongue unknown to another would thus be like a non-Greek speaking to a native Greek. They would not understand each other.

The problem of the Corinthian Church lay not with their zeal but with their motive and purpose of using spiritual gifts. They were using their spiritual gifts to show off rather than to edify one another in love. If they sought to edify one another, they must be understood!

THOUGHT: What is the application for teachers of God’s Word?
PRAYER: Lord, help me use my spiritual gifts appropriately.