What steps can we take to prioritize edification in our spiritual gifts? Reading the Core Text 1 Corinthians 14:5: “I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.” Why Edification Ranks First • The Holy Spirit distributes gifts “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Love—not spectacle—is the “most excellent way” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • Jesus builds His church (Matthew 16:18); our gifts join that work, never distract from it. Practical Steps to Put Edification First • Seek clarity over mystery – If God grants tongues, pray also for interpretation so “the church may be edified” (1 Corinthians 14:13). – Aim for words that strengthen, encourage, and console (1 Corinthians 14:3). • Ask for gifts that build up others – “Strive to excel in gifts that build up the church” (1 Corinthians 14:12). – Regularly pray: “Lord, entrust me with whatever gift best serves Your people today.” • Measure fruit, not flash – After ministering, look for increased faith, comfort, and obedience in others (Hebrews 10:24-25). – If confusion or division follows, adjust or pause. • Speak in love, serve in humility – “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). – Remember: “The greater the gift, the greater the servant” (Luke 22:26-27). Cultivating a Heart of Love • Meditate on 1 Corinthians 13 regularly; let it shape motives. • Celebrate others’ gifts; refuse envy or competition (Romans 12:15-16). • Practice quiet, unseen acts of service so public gifts stay grounded. Keeping Gift Use Scripturally Anchored • Test every word against Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Submit to local church leadership; “the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets” (1 Corinthians 14:32-33). • Maintain order: “Everything must be done in a fitting and orderly way” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Creating an Environment That Welcomes Edification • Encourage accountability—two or three share, others weigh carefully (1 Corinthians 14:29). • Provide space for testimony: reports of growth inspire further faith (Revelation 12:11). • Equip believers through teaching: “to prepare the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). Living It Out This Week • Begin each day asking how the Spirit wants to build someone up through you. • Choose one gift expression (a word, a service, a prayer) and focus on clear, loving delivery. • End the week by thanking God for any edifying fruit you witnessed, giving Him all glory. |
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