9.25.24. Church Order

1 Cor 14 Orderliness in the Church

God gave us the church through His Son, Jesus Christ. As it was then, it is to be today; a place of order, not confusion. It seems that the Corinthians had taken this a separate further because the issue of speaking in tongues had caused much disorder. Thus, as Paul often does, he writes to clarify this issue. Plainly speaking, Paul writes that the tongues issue should be understood this way, as you speak, its whole purpose is to speak to God. Paul encourages the church that prophesying is of greater value than speaking in a foreign tongue. “But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.” 

Each of those words direct us to the proper use and place in the worship service of the church. Edification is to build another up through words of encouragement. Exhortation is the orderliness in the preaching and teaching God’s truth.  Many come to the service seeking words that will comfort to console and strengthen them and speaking in tongues does neither for the speaker is speaking to God not men. 

Stop and consider this; how is your church fulfilling each of those commands?