photo #9371938

1. Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.1 Corinthians 14:1; KJV. Paul continues his teachings on love, spiritual gifts, the reason prophecy is important, and self-control of spiritual gifts. Speaking in tongues is a spiritual gift, but some in Corinth were bragging about it and interrupted the church services. Paul said if an unbeliever came in and heard, he would not understand, because the words are for God and not men. But if someone would give a message over the man in prophecy, he could be saved. So tongues are an act of personal worship to God, and prophecy is a message to people, to build up the church. All the gifts come from God and were never intended to put a spotlight on anyone; all that is to be done is for God, not us. The application in spiritual life: 5 words of understanding that bring salvation to the lost are worth more than 10,000 words in tongues that have not been interpreted. The primary goal of spiritual gifts is edification and growth of the church. The lesson: Love is the foundation of all spiritual gifts. Prophecy is communal; tongues are personal. Evaluate your spiritual expression by its impact on the community. Spiritual gifts serve God's kingdom; they are the tools for building unity, encouraging faith, and guiding others to Christ. Amen.