What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 14:26? What then shall we say, brothers? “What then shall we say, brothers?” (1 Corinthians 14:26a) gathers up Paul’s entire discussion of orderly worship. • “Brothers” reminds us we are one family in Christ (Hebrews 2:11; Romans 12:1). • The question signals a practical conclusion after teaching on gifts, love, and order (1 Corinthians 13:1–2; 14:1–19). • Every believer is addressed; no spectator mentality is envisioned (1 Corinthians 12:7). When you come together Paul assumes regular assembly, not isolated spirituality. • Meeting together is commanded (Hebrews 10:24-25) and modeled by the first church (Acts 2:42). • The gathering belongs to the Lord (Matthew 18:20), so His priorities—not personal agendas—govern it. • Spiritual gifts flourish in community, where they can actually serve others (1 Corinthians 12:12-14). Everyone has a psalm A psalm is a Spirit-prompted song or Scripture-saturated praise. • Singing truth edifies hearts and minds (Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19). • Variety is welcome; multiple voices bring freshness. • Content must exalt God and teach sound doctrine (Psalm 96:1-3). Or a teaching Teaching anchors emotion in truth. • Public reading and explanation of Scripture are central (1 Timothy 4:13; Acts 2:42). • Sound teaching protects from error (Titus 1:9). • Those gifted to teach must do so faithfully and clearly (Romans 12:7). A revelation Revelation is Spirit-given insight that applies God’s word to a present need. • If fresh revelation comes, speakers defer in humility (1 Corinthians 14:30). • It will never contradict written Scripture (Galatians 1:8; 2 Peter 1:19-21). • Its aim is a clearer vision of Christ and His will (Ephesians 3:3-5). A tongue, or an interpretation Languages and their interpretations illustrate gift diversity under control. • Tongues are Spirit-enabled speech in an unlearned language (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:10). • Interpretation makes the message intelligible and therefore edifying (1 Corinthians 14:13, 27-28). • Without interpretation, silence is the loving, orderly choice (1 Corinthians 14:28, 33, 40). All of these must be done to build up the church Edification rules everything. • “Since you are eager for gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church” (1 Corinthians 14:12). • Love is the motive and measure (1 Corinthians 13:1-7). • When every part functions for others, the body “grows and builds itself up in love” (Ephesians 4:11-12, 16). summary 1 Corinthians 14:26 paints a picture of participatory, orderly worship. Psalms, teaching, revelation, tongues, and interpretations are welcomed, yet every contribution is weighed by one standard: Does it strengthen the church? Diversity of gifts, expressed in love and clarity, leads to a gathering where Christ is glorified and His people are built up together. |
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