How can we balance prophecy and tongues in our church's worship services? Scripture Anchor “So, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.” (1 Corinthians 14:39) Gifts Affirmed, Not Suppressed • Paul places both gifts in a healthy tension: desire prophecy, allow tongues. • The same balance appears in 1 Corinthians 14:5—prophecy prioritized for its edifying power, tongues welcomed when interpreted. • Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6 show tongues operating alongside prophetic utterance in the early church. We embrace what God has given without favoritism or fear. Purpose of Each Gift • Prophecy: “edification, encouragement, and comfort to men” (1 Corinthians 14:3). • Tongues: personal communion with God (14:2) and, with interpretation, a sign that can edify the body (14:5). • Both aim at building up believers; neither is a performance showcase. Guidelines Paul Gives • 1 Corinthians 14:26—everything contributes to “building up.” • Tongues (14:27-28): – Two, or at most three, each in turn. – Interpretation required; otherwise, silent prayer “to himself and God.” • Prophecy (14:29-32): – Two or three speak; others “should weigh carefully” what is said. – Spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets; no one hijacks the gathering. • “God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (14:33). • “Everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner” (14:40). Putting It into Practice in Your Service 1. Before the service • Teach clearly on the biblical purpose and limits of both gifts. • Identify and train mature interpreters (for tongues) and evaluators (for prophecy). 2. During worship • Provide space after songs or prayer for gifts to operate. • Use a microphone gatekeeper—anyone sensing a tongue or prophecy checks in briefly with an elder/pastor. 3. Tongues • If a tongue is brought, pause and ask the interpreter to come forward. • No interpretation? Thank the speaker, affirm the private blessing, and move on. 4. Prophecy • After a prophetic word, ask leaders to weigh it publicly with Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). • Record prophecies so they can be revisited and tested. 5. Flow and Time • Keep to the “two or three” guideline; additional words can be shared privately or at another meeting. • Preserve the sermon slot; the gifts complement, not replace, expositional preaching. Maintaining Order and Discernment • Regular teaching: revisit 1 Corinthians 12-14 so younger believers understand the why and how. • Leadership oversight: elders remain alert to doctrinal accuracy (Titus 1:9). • Humility among participants: defer to one another, “submitting to one another in the fear of Christ” (Ephesians 5:21). • Continual evaluation: celebrate fruit, correct excess, and keep pursuing “love” as the supreme motive (1 Corinthians 14:1). |
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