How does 1 Corinthians 14:4 relate to the use of spiritual gifts in worship? Verse Under the Microscope “The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.” (1 Corinthians 14:4) Self-Edification and Corporate Edification • Speaking in tongues strengthens the individual believer; prophecy strengthens the gathered body. • Paul values both gifts (v. 5) yet highlights their different purposes in worship. • The verse sets a standard: whatever happens in a service should build up more than one person whenever possible. Keeping the Balance With Other Scriptures • 1 Corinthians 14:3 — “the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouragement, and comfort.” • 1 Corinthians 12:7 — “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” • 1 Corinthians 14:12 — “Since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel in gifts that build up the church.” • Ephesians 4:11-12 — leaders equip saints “for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ.” • 1 Peter 4:10 — “use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace.” • Together these passages confirm edification of the whole assembly as the guiding principle. Implications for Today’s Worship Service • Tongues are welcome, yet an interpretation (v. 13, 27-28) keeps the focus on congregational benefit. • Prophecy (clear, Spirit-prompted speech in the language understood) is especially valuable because everyone understands and is strengthened. • Orderly worship (v. 40) avoids confusion and spotlights Christ, not the individual. • Leaders discern flow: personal prayer language may thrive in private or in hushed moments, while public speech should always build others. • All gifts—whether teaching, mercy, hospitality, or music—operate by the same yardstick: do they edify the gathered church? Practical Takeaways • Pursue gifts eagerly (v. 1), but prioritize those that bless the assembly. • Invite the Spirit’s spontaneity while honoring scriptural order. • Encourage believers to pray in tongues privately and, when public, to pray for interpretation. • Make space for prophetic words that align with Scripture and strengthen the body. • Evaluate every element of the service—songs, testimonies, exhortations—through the lens of edification, fulfilling 1 Corinthians 14:4’s core principle. |
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