What role do "revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or teaching" play in edifying believers? Starting Point: 1 Corinthians 14:6 “Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, what good will I be to you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?” Paul names four specific ministries that turn mere words into spiritual nourishment. Each carries a distinct flavor, yet all aim at the same target—building up the church. Revelation: Unveiling What God Is Doing • Definition: Direct unveiling of divine truth previously hidden (cf. Ephesians 3:3–5). • Purpose in edification: – Opens spiritual eyes to God’s bigger picture, sparking worship and obedience. – Supplies clarity when believers face confusion, reminding them God still speaks (Acts 16:9–10). • Practical effect: Encourages confidence that God is active and intentional in the present moment. Knowledge: Anchoring the Mind in Truth • Definition: Accurate understanding of God’s character, works, and will (Colossians 1:9–10). • Purpose in edification: – Guards against deception (Hosea 4:6). – Fuels discernment so believers can “test all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Practical effect: Shapes thinking that results in holy living (Romans 12:2). Prophecy: Speaking God’s “Now” Word • Definition: Spirit-empowered message that “speaks to men for edification, encouragement, and comfort” (1 Corinthians 14:3). • Purpose in edification: – Builds up faith by confirming God’s promises (1 Timothy 1:18). – Sparks repentance and renewed commitment when sin is exposed (2 Samuel 12:7-9). • Practical effect: Cuts through complacency and stirs hearts toward immediate obedience. Teaching: Making Truth Understandable and Transferable • Definition: Systematic explanation of Scripture so believers grasp and apply it (2 Timothy 2:2; 3:16-17). • Purpose in edification: – Grounds believers in sound doctrine, preventing spiritual drift (Titus 2:1). – Equips the saints for ministry, bringing the whole body to maturity (Ephesians 4:11-13). • Practical effect: Produces disciples who can disciple others, multiplying growth. Why Paul Highlights the Four Together • Tongues without interpretation edify only the speaker (1 Corinthians 14:4); these gifts edify the entire assembly. • Each gift completes the others: revelation ignites awe, knowledge stabilizes, prophecy motivates, and teaching instructs. • The goal is unity and maturity—“that the church may be built up” (1 Corinthians 14:26). Putting It All Together in Daily Fellowship 1. Seek services and gatherings where these elements are welcomed and balanced. 2. When you receive revelation or prophecy, weigh it against Scripture (Acts 17:11). 3. Pursue knowledge and teaching consistently; they furnish the framework that helps discern genuine revelation and prophecy. 4. Celebrate every instance of Christ being made clearer, the church strengthened, and love increasing—that is edification in action. |
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