1 Corinthians 14:5-19

Paul is continuing to show the Corinthian brethren the more excellent way of love.  The spiritual gift, and in particular the gift they sought after the most, speaking in tongues, was not to define them.  They were to be known by their love.  The gifts would eventually cease but love would never cease. 

Twice in this passage Paul speaks favorably of tongues, but even more favorably prophecy.  Knowing they seek after tongues he wants them to attain their goal.  But since tongues is not as great as prophecy (because it can build up others, it shows love) he desires even more that they see an abundance of this gift (14:5).  Again, Paul acknowledges his own use of tongues (14:18) but says he would rather speak in the church gathering five words that can be understood than ten thousand words in a tongue (14:19).

The reason for this comparison is a simple but very fundamental principle of Christian growth (edification).  The path to changing the heart and conscience runs through the mind.  Transformation is by the renewing of your mind (Rom. 12:2).  We have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him (Col. 3:10).  As has always been true of God’s people, we must hear the word of God that we might heed.  We grow by the milk of the word (1 Pt. 2:2).  The most loving use of spirituals is that which edifies the body, and what edifies the body is that which can be understood.

Two illustrations clarify this.  We can enjoy the sounds from musical instruments, whether individually or in an orchestra, but only if the distinct sound of each is heard (14:7-9).  The same thing is true of the various actual languages spoken on earth.  They mean nothing to those who don’t understand them unless someone interprets (14:10-12).  We saw this on the Day of Pentecost when the earliest believers spoke in tongues that were a known language, declaring the wonderful works of God (Ac. 2:11).  

Thus Paul encourages ministry that can build up others.  If he were to speak by revelation (a message he received from God), by knowledge (a message he gathered from his knowledge of Scripture), by prophesy (preaching, calling people to repentance) or by teaching (the clear explanation of God’s truth) then others can be benefited (14:6).  The one who engages in these spirituals ministers both to his own spirit and to the understanding of others (14:14-17).  

The bottom line in the church is: Let all things be done for edification (14:26; cf. 2 Cor. 12:19; Rom. 15:2; 1 Cor. 10:23).  Why is that?  Because that is what Christ is doing in this age!  He is building His body (Matt. 16:18).  The saints are to be equipped for ministry so the body of Christ can be edified (built up, Eph. 4:12).  When we do this we are joining Christ in His work!  This goes far beyond the issue of spirituals; it touches every conversation, program, activity, sermon or Bible study in a local church.  Have we truly joined Christ in His work?