Building Up The Body (1 Corinthians 14:1-25)

Corinth was a bit like the New York City of its day – diverse, busy, and full of people trying to figure out life. And in the midst of all this hustle and bustle were the Corinthians – a group of people, just like us, trying to make sense of their faith and community.

But, they were getting a bit tangled up. Imagine this: You're in a room where everyone's talking, but no one's listening. Some are showing off their knowledge, others are speaking in languages no one understands, and a few are just trying to make sense of it all. Sounds chaotic, right? That was Corinth for you!

The Apostle Paul, a wise and seasoned traveler, steps into this scene. He immediately knows how to fix the chaos. Paul sees the Corinthians using their spiritual gifts – think of these as super cool abilities given by God – but not in the way they were meant to be used.

You see, they had these amazing gifts – like prophesying, which is kind of like being able to share God's messages, or speaking in tongues, which is like talking in a language only God understands. But instead of using these gifts to build each other up, they were using them to show off. It's like having the power to make the best chocolate cake in the world but eating it all by yourself. Not cool, right?

So, Paul steps in and says, "Hey folks, we've got to use these gifts the right way!" He's not scolding them; he's guiding them, like a coach giving a game-changing pep talk.

Now, why am I telling you all this? Because, believe it or not, we face similar challenges today. We come together every Sunday and Wednesday, not just to say we did, but to build each other up, just like a team. Each one of us has a unique gift – maybe you're a great listener, a fantastic teacher, or the one who makes everyone feel at home. But what if we're not using these gifts the right way? What if we come here and forget the real reason why we gather? That's what we're going to explore today.

We're going to take a leaf out of Paul's book and learn how to use our gifts to not just fill seats, but to strengthen each other, and to make our gatherings not just a routine, but a powerhouse of shared faith and love.

Prophesy – The More Excellent Gift

1 Corinthians 14:1–5 (ESV) — 1 Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. 2 For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3 On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. 4 The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. 5 Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.

Notice how Paul highlights one gift in particular through this text – prophesy. He compares this with speaking in tongues to say it’s greater. Now, when we hear "prophesy," we might think of someone predicting the future, like a fortune-teller at a carnival. But in the Bible, prophesy is so much more. It's about speaking God's truth in a way that everyone can understand and be encouraged by.

Paul called prophesy the "more excellent gift." But why? Because prophesy, unlike speaking in tongues, wasn't a solo performance. It was a team effort, a gift that built up the entire church. Imagine it like this: if our church was a garden, prophesy would be like the rain that waters every single plant, not just one or two.

Now, let's bring this home. In our modern-day church, prophesy takes a different form. It's not about foretelling the future because the miraculous nature appears to have ended; it's about telling God's truth in our everyday lives. In a sense, preachers and teachers sharing wisdom from God’s word that touches our hearts, our friends offering biblical words of encouragement that lift our spirits, and each one of us sharing our personal stories of faith that relate to scripture and inspire others is prophetic.

So, think about the last time someone's words really made a difference in your life. Maybe it was a sermon that seemed to speak directly to you, or a friend's comforting words in a time of need. When we know and use God’s word in a way that builds up faith in one another, that’s what Paul is talking about. It's about using God’s words to build up, not tear down; to encourage, not discourage; to unite, not divide.

In our gatherings, every word we speak, every lesson we teach, and every story we share carries the potential to change a life, to water a thirsty soul. When we come together, let's aim to be oracles of God in our own right – sharing God's truth in love, offering words that are like balm to the weary, and being voices of hope in a world that so desperately needs it.

Remember, the gift to speak God’s word into people’s life is about upbuilding, encouragement, and consolation. It’s is about making the complex simple, the divine relatable, and the eternal accessible. It's about making the word of God not just heard, but felt, in the very core of our beings.

As we move forward, let's cherish and cultivate God’s word and learn how to speak it, making our gatherings not just a routine, but a revelation of God's love and truth, shared one word, one story, one heart at a time.

Tongues Alone Are Useless

Now, let's turn our attention to another intriguing aspect of Paul's letter: the use of speaking in tongues.

1 Corinthians 14:6–12 (ESV) — 6 Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7 If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? 8 And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? 9 So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. 10 There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, 11 but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. 12 So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

In Corinth, speaking in tongues was the talk of the town. It was like having a spiritual superpower. But Paul, in his wisdom, points out a stark truth: speaking in tongues, when done alone, is pretty much useless in the church setting. Why? Because it's like singing a song in a language nobody understands. Sure, it might sound beautiful, but if no one gets the message, what's the point?

Imagine you're at a family dinner, and your cousin starts speaking in a language only he understands. Everyone's impressed at first, but soon, they're just confused and left out. That's what Paul was getting at. In a community setting, if our gifts don't benefit others, they're like a puzzle with missing pieces – interesting, but incomplete.

So, how does this apply to us today? We might not all be speaking in tongues, but we each have our unique skills, talents, and ways of expressing ourselves. The key is to make sure that these gifts are used in a way that everyone benefits. It's not just about what we do, but how and why we do it.

For instance, if you're a great singer, it's not just about hitting the high notes; it's about choosing songs that speak to the hearts of the congregation. If you're a gifted teacher, it's not just about showing off your knowledge; it's about making the complex simple and relatable. This has probably been the hardest lesson for me to learn. My analytical side wants to express the complex ideas I understand without taking time to simplify them or consider how the listener hears them. Every gift, every talent should be like a bridge, connecting us to each other and to God.

Paul's message about tongues is a reminder to us that in the church, our actions, our words, our talents, are not just for our own fulfillment. They're tools to serve, to unite, and to edify – to build up the body of Christ. Our assemblies are not a showcase of individual talents, but a symphony of shared gifts, where every note, every word, and every action harmonizes to create a beautiful melody of fellowship and growth.

Remember, in the grand orchestra of God's church, every instrument, every voice, every heart, has a role to play. And when we all play in unison, with the purpose of building each other up, that's when the true music of the spirit resounds in its most beautiful harmony.

However, the misuse of our gift would fail to build up the body of Christ When we use our gifts without considering their impact on the community, we create dissonance rather than harmony. Instead of edifying and encouraging one another, we risk causing confusion, division, or even discouragement.

If I get up here and use big, fancy words. It's impressive, yes, but if a seven-year-old or a seventy-year-old can't understand them, then the message is lost. The speaker's gift, though used with good intentions, isn't building up the body; it's creating a barrier.

Paul's point is crystal clear: Our gifts are not just for ourselves; they're for the community. They're tools given by God not to elevate us, but to uplift others. The true measure of a gift's effectiveness is not in how spectacularly it's displayed, but in how deeply it touches and transforms lives.

Engaging Mind and Spirit in the Assembly

1 Corinthians 14:13–25 (ESV) — 13 Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. 15 What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. 16 Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? 17 For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature. 21 In the Law it is written, “By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.” 22 Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers. 23 If, therefore, the whole church comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, 25 the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.

In this section, Paul emphasizes the importance of engaging both mind and spirit in our worship and assembly. This is where the essence of true, meaningful participation in the church lies.

Paul addresses the use of tongues in the church, but he insists on something deeper – a balance between the spirit's enthusiasm and the mind's understanding. He's basically saying, “It's great to be spiritually passionate, but let's not leave our brains at the door!”

Think of it like this: Imagine you're at a concert. The music stirs your soul, but you don't understand the lyrics. Sure, you feel the beat, but the message? It's lost in translation. Paul is nudging us to not just feel the rhythm of our faith but to comprehend its lyrics too.

So, how does this relate to us in our modern-day assemblies? It's simple, yet profound. When we come together, whether it's Sunday or Wednesday night, we're not just there to experience an emotional or spiritual high. We're there to connect both heart and mind to God's word and to each other. It's about understanding the teachings, internalizing them, and then applying them to our lives.

Let's take my sermons, for example. They're not just about stirring speeches or eloquent words. They're about making the word of God accessible and understandable to everyone, from the youngest child to the eldest member. It's about ensuring that when we talk about love, forgiveness, or faith, these concepts don't just float over our heads but sink deep into our hearts and minds.

This balance is also vital in our personal interactions within the church. Whether we're praying, teaching, or even just chatting over a cup of coffee, we're called to be mindful of how we're connecting with others. Are we just sharing experiences, or are we also engaging in meaningful conversations that foster understanding and growth?

Paul's message in these verses is a call to holistic worship – a blend of heartfelt spirituality and thoughtful understanding. This balance is what makes our gatherings not just meetings, but transformative experiences. So, as we move forward, let's strive to engage both our minds and spirits. Let's seek not just to feel God's presence or some form of invigoration but to understand His word. Conversely, let’s not just seek to understand his word, but to feel invigorated in God’s presence. Let's make our assemblies places where every heart and every mind is nourished, where faith is not just felt but also understood and lived.

In this way, we truly build up the body of Christ, creating a community that's not only emotionally connected but also intellectually enriched and spiritually alive – a community that stands strong in both spirit and truth.

Application - The True Purpose of Our Gathering

As we reflect on Paul's teachings, we reach a critical point of application: understanding the real reason why we come together as a church. This is where we take a moment to introspect and align our purpose with God's intention for our assemblies.

The heart of our gathering is not to draw attention to ourselves, but to direct our focus towards God and His word. It's a time to step out of the spotlight and shine it on the One who truly deserves it. Our meetings are not just social gatherings; they're spiritual workshops where we come to grow, not just in numbers, but in depth and maturity.

Let's be honest, it's easy to get sidetracked. In a world that often treats church like a social club or a Sunday routine, we need to remind ourselves of the true essence of our gathering. It's not about the entertainment, the recognition, or even the comfort of familiar faces. These things are nice, but they're not the core.

The core reason we come together is to build each other up in Christ. This might look different each time we meet. Sometimes, it's about sharing grief and offering comfort to those who hurt. Other times, it's about edification, where we learn together, sharpening our understanding and deepening our faith. And yes, there are times for rejoicing, celebrating the joys and victories in our lives.

But whatever the tone of our gathering, the underlying purpose remains constant – to grow in our relationship with God and with each other. It's about being a living, breathing community that embodies the teachings of Christ.

Paul's emphasis on the essential nature of our gatherings is a wake-up call. In a world that often sees coming together as optional, Paul places it at the heart of Christian life. It's through these gatherings that we exercise our spiritual gifts, nurture the body of Christ, and ensure its growth and health.

So, let's ask ourselves: Why are we here? Are we here to be seen, to be entertained, or to check off a religious duty? Or are we here to engage with God's word, to connect with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and to grow together in our spiritual journey?

As we ponder these questions, let's commit to making our gatherings purposeful. Let's ensure that everything we do – from our worship to our fellowship – is aimed at building up the body of Christ. Let's embrace the responsibility of using our gifts not for our glory, but for the edification of the church.

In doing so, we affirm Paul's vision of the church – a dynamic, vibrant body, growing not just in size but in spirit, united not just in belief but in purpose, and thriving not just in moments of joy, but in every aspect of our collective spiritual journey.

How We Build One Another Up

Okay. So we are committed to making our gatherings purposeful. How do we do that? We need to understand how we, as a church family, can actively build one another up. This isn't just about being present; it's about being proactive in our mutual growth and encouragement. Let's unpack the practical ways we can do this, aligning with the ideas you've shared.

1. God's Word in Everything We Do: Our actions, words, and choices should be a living proclamation of God’s word. This means our conversations, even outside sermons and Bible studies, should reflect the teachings of Christ. Whether it's a chat over coffee or a discussion during a church meeting, let God's word be the foundation and guide.
2. Loving but Truthful Feedback: Honest feedback is a cornerstone of growth. However, it's not just about pointing out what's wrong; it's about doing so with love and empathy. It's like helping someone adjust their posture – done gently, not harshly. This feedback should aim to uplift and guide, not to tear down.
3. Humble Enough to Adapt Our Gifts to Fit a Need: Sometimes, what's needed most is not what we're best at. Being willing to step out of our comfort zones and use our gifts where they're most needed shows true humility and commitment.
4. Others with Their Gifts: We're not just individuals with gifts; we're a community of gift-bearers. Let's help each other develop and refine our gifts. It could be offering to mentor someone, sharing resources, or simply giving encouragement. Remember, a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.
5. for One Another: Prayer is a powerful tool in building each other up. It's a way to bring our hopes, concerns, and dreams for one another before God. When we pray for each other, we're not just speaking words; we are bringing God into the equation, petitioning him for help.
6. to Grow and Develop Our Gifts for God's Glory: Our gifts are not static; they're dynamic, just like our faith. Let's commit to continually developing them, not for our sake, but for God’s glory. This means seeking opportunities to learn, to practice, and to improve – always with the aim of serving God and His church more effectively.

By embracing these practices, we embody the true spirit of a Christ-centered community. It's not just about coming together; it's about growing together, each one of us playing our part in nurturing the body of Christ. As we apply these principles, we create a church environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and motivated to develop their relationship with God and with each other.

So, let’s make our gatherings more than just meetings; let's make them workshops of spiritual growth and hubs of mutual edification. In doing so, we don’t just build a church; we build a family, a community deeply rooted in love, strengthened by truth, and flourishing in the grace and glory of God.

Embracing Our Purpose Together

As we wrap up our exploration of 1 Corinthians 14 and the vital lessons it imparts, let's pause and reflect on the journey we've taken today. We've delved into the heart of what it means to truly build up the body of Christ, not as isolated individuals, but as a unified, dynamic community.

We've learned that our gatherings are far more than routine meetings; they are divine appointments where each of us plays a crucial role. We've been reminded that our spiritual gifts, whether they're visible like preaching, or behind-the-scenes like encouragement, are not for self-promotion but for the collective growth of our church family.

We've been called to engage both mind and spirit in our worship, to ensure our contributions are accessible and edifying to all. We've recognized the importance of being present in spirit and truth, using our unique gifts in harmony with one another.

As we go forth from here, let's carry these truths in our hearts. Let's commit to using our gifts with humility and purpose, always seeking to glorify God and to strengthen our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let's be a church that not only gathers but grows together, a church where every member is valued, every gift is nurtured, and every action is infused with love and guided by the truth of God's word.

May we leave today inspired and renewed, ready to embrace our role in God's grand design, and eager to see how our collective efforts will bear fruit in the lives of those around us and in the health and vitality of our church.

And as we part ways, let's remember that every word we speak, every action we take, and every prayer we offer has the power to build up the body of Christ. In this, let's find our joy, our purpose, and our calling as followers of Jesus. Amen.