The topic of spiritual gifts takes up a large portion of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians (ch. 12-14). Paul began the conversation by identifying nine spiritual gifts and then explaining how God distributed different gifts to different believers to edify the entire body of Christ (ch 12). Next, he argued that these gifts must used in love, not with spiritual pride, selfishness, or arrogance (ch 13). Finally, in chapter 14, Paul narrowed his focus to the proper use of just two spiritual gifts (tongues, prophecy).

Paul was focused on the use of tongues and prophecy in public worship, and his primary concern was that these gifts be used in a way that brings edification to the whole assembly rather than individual believers (14:2-30). While he acknowledged the value of tongues in one’s personal devotion (vs 2,4), in the context of the assembly, tongues were of no value unless they were interpreted (vs 2,5-19). That is why Paul urged the Corinthians to seek and use the gift of prophecy instead (vs 5,24-25). Prophesy always edifies everyone (both believers and unbelievers alike). Tongues can only do the same when interpreted (v 5).

(more…)