For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the Spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.
--1 Corinthians 14:2-3 (NKJV)
From the daily Bible reading on June 3, 2013 of Psalm 104:27-35; 1 Corinthians 14; 2 Samuel 22-23:7.
The church in Corinth held to an incredible variety of beliefs and practices (please see "Being Saved") that were not consistent with what Paul originally taught them. Among these was how the people exercised speaking in tongues in their public worship. Paul uses most of chapter 14 to address what he sees as a growing concern. Paul makes it clear that he considers speaking in tongues to be a gift, but it can only edify and benefit others if it is interpreted. This practice originates from the Day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended and filled all the disciples who "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (please reference Acts 2:4). But the point Paul is trying to make is that speaking in some unknown language only benefits the speaker, and even then only spiritually or emotionally, while serving no benefit whatsoever to those who may hear it if they do not understand what is spoken. He notes that those who do hear such a speaker may think him mad (verse 23). There must be someone who can interpret what the speaker says so others can understand. The disciples at Pentecost, while speaking in other tongues, were clearly understood by all those present who heard them speaking in their own native languages and were astounded by it (Acts 2:7-8). As a result, "that day about three thousand souls were added" to the church (Acts 2:41). This is the true work of the Holy Spirit.
The gift of prophesy, Paul asserts, is much more desirable to be received from God. To prophesy is to speak as a mediator for God, to be His spokesperson, and may include making inspired declarations about things to come. When we prophesy we use clear language easily understood by everyone who hears. We express God's message that edifies the church, that instructs and benefits His people. Prophesying allows us to exhort others and comfort them rather than confuse them as speaking in tongues can do. Just as musical sounds must be clear and distinct to be useful and enjoyable, our speech must be clear and intelligible language to be useful and instructive (verses 7-9). Paul further emphasizes the importance of being understood by saying he would rather speak only five words in prophesying rather than 10,000 words in tongues (verses 18-19).
If a non-believer or an unchurched individual visited our church service and everyone spoke in tongues with no interpretation, the visitor would likely think us mad and leave without benefiting a bit from the Spirit. But if that visitor came and everyone spoke for God as led by the Holy Spirit, that person might be saved. This is the Lord's message to us through Paul. Speak as directed by the Holy Spirit the inspired word of God so that others may know Jesus and be saved. Amen.
Lord God, thank You for the many gifts You shower upon us. Father, we desire to speak Your inspired word so that we might benefit others, and with Your help and grace save souls and increase Your Son's church here on earth in preparation for the day He will come again to take His church home. Please give us this wonderful gift, O Lord, to prophesy and be Your spokesperson. In the most holy name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
The gift of prophesy, Paul asserts, is much more desirable to be received from God. To prophesy is to speak as a mediator for God, to be His spokesperson, and may include making inspired declarations about things to come. When we prophesy we use clear language easily understood by everyone who hears. We express God's message that edifies the church, that instructs and benefits His people. Prophesying allows us to exhort others and comfort them rather than confuse them as speaking in tongues can do. Just as musical sounds must be clear and distinct to be useful and enjoyable, our speech must be clear and intelligible language to be useful and instructive (verses 7-9). Paul further emphasizes the importance of being understood by saying he would rather speak only five words in prophesying rather than 10,000 words in tongues (verses 18-19).
If a non-believer or an unchurched individual visited our church service and everyone spoke in tongues with no interpretation, the visitor would likely think us mad and leave without benefiting a bit from the Spirit. But if that visitor came and everyone spoke for God as led by the Holy Spirit, that person might be saved. This is the Lord's message to us through Paul. Speak as directed by the Holy Spirit the inspired word of God so that others may know Jesus and be saved. Amen.
Lord God, thank You for the many gifts You shower upon us. Father, we desire to speak Your inspired word so that we might benefit others, and with Your help and grace save souls and increase Your Son's church here on earth in preparation for the day He will come again to take His church home. Please give us this wonderful gift, O Lord, to prophesy and be Your spokesperson. In the most holy name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
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