Building Up the Body (part 2)

Building Up the Body (part 2) 1 Corinthians 14:26-40 January 27, 2019 THE BIG IDEA: When it comes to describing corporate worship gatherings, Paul said they should be orderly, that everyone should bring something to contribute, and that they should build up the people of God. He says we also should value and practice silence, knowing that there are times we will gain much more from the Lord if we choose quietness. earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But all things should be done decently and in order. NOTES: Definition and Value of “Prophecy” – a gifting of God to bring the truths of the Word of God to bear in the particular circumstances of a Christian brother or sister (or the entire church), helping them see what God would have them do. Important Background Note: 1st century church worship was much more participatory than most of our 21st century church services. There was substantial “back and forth” among the leaders and other members of the church, with multiple speakers in a given service. The Unifying Theme of Chapter 14 is in verse 26: “Let all things be done for building up.” 1 Corinthians 14:26-40 (ESV) 14 26 What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. 27 If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. 28 But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. 30 If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, 32 and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. 33 For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, 34 the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. 35 If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church. 36 Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached? 37 If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord. 38 If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized. 39 So, my brothers, 5 More Questions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Do you believe that God desires to speak to you and through you? Are you willing to pray about and consider what the Lord has been showing you that you might need to share with another member of the Body of Christ? Think of this as your Saturday “message preparation” routine. Are you willing to be silent and learn from the Lord by listening to others when they have something to share? Do you understand how loved and important women are to God and to His church and that spiritual roles does not negate the truth that men and women have the same Holy Spirit, giftings, and spiritual value to the Lord? Are you praying for and seeking God’s desire to bring peace and eliminate confusion from your life and from our church? Bonus Question: Do you believe you are closer to the Lord than others and that you get to “write your own rules” when Scripture challenges your preferences?