1 Corinthians 14 - Introduction

Tongues & Prophecy First Corinthians Fourteen

This is the concluding chapter in the discussion of spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 Paul identified the spiritual gifts. The gifts included (1) The word of wisdom, (2) The word of knowledge, (3) Faith, (4) The gifts of healing, (5) The working of miracles, (6) Prophecy, (7) Discerning of spirits, (8) Diverse kinds of tongues, and (9) The interpretation of tongues. Each gift was important because each gift was given by the same Spirit. Those that received these gifts were to be united in one body.

In 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Paul showed that all spiritual gifts must be exercised in love. Without love we are nothing. Love is defined in these words, "Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love is not selfish or quick tempered. It does not keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. Love never fails!" Love continued after the spiritual gifts ceased.

First Corinthians fourteen is the sad account of contentions that had been caused in the church at Corinth by attitudes dealing with spiritual gifts, especially the gifts of prophecy, tongues, and the interpretation of tongues. This chapter shows how the miraculous spiritual gifts were to be regulated and how important the edification of the church is in all matters. Whatever is done in the church is to be done humbly and in love.