Scripture

So, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and don’t forbid speaking in tongues. But be sure that everything is done decently and in order.

Observation

In a meeting, various people will bring various gifts – singing, teaching, prophecy, tongues, interpretation. Everything must be done with the goal of strengthening all people.

No more than two or three should speak in tongues, and not all at once. Someone must interpret the message, otherwise the tongues speakers should remain silent.

Two or three people should prophesy, and the others should evaluate the message. The gift of prophecy is in the control of the speaker. People must take turns.

Women should remain quiet during the meeting. If they have questions, they should ask their husbands at home.

Be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.

Application

Paul makes it clear that he wants the Corinthians to exercise the gifts of the Holy Spirit. But it must be done in an orderly way.

We should all be eager to prophesy. This means actively listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, whether through a mental impression, or a vision, or some other means. It means being prepared to share what we have received from the Lord.

Many people hear all sorts of things from the Lord all the time, but they don’t think to share it. They don’t think that they are spiritual enough to prophesy. They don’t think that they have a particularly impressive message to share.

The church should find ways of encouraging these people to speak out what they think God is saying. People who are just starting to gain confidence in hearing the Lord can be nurtured to grow in their gifts.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Please speak to the church through me. Help me to hear your voice and to know that it is you. Amen