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1 Corinthians 14:1
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Summary
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- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Follow after charity - Most earnestly labor to be put in possession of that love which beareth, believeth, hopeth, and endureth all things. It may be difficult to acquire, and difficult to retain this blessed state, but it is essential to your present peace and eternal happiness. This clause belongs to the preceding chapter. Desire spiritual gifts - Ye are very intent on getting those splendid gifts which may add to your worldly consequence, and please your carnal minds - but labor rather to get the gifts of God's Spirit, by which ye may grow in grace, and be useful to others - and particularly desire that ye may prophesy - that ye may be able to teach and instruct others in the things of their salvation.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Follow after charity,.... The apostle having so highly commended charity, or love, in the preceding chapter, presses here to an eager pursuit after it; that is, to an exercise of it, and after those things which make for it, and will serve to maintain and increase it: and everything he has said in praise of it before serves as an argument, or reason, to follow hard after it, with an eagerness used in hunting, and with such violence as persecutors express in pursuing and laying hold on those they seek after, to which there is an allusion in the word here used: and desire spiritual gifts: for though he had given charity the preference to them, he did not mean that they should despise and neglect them, or treat them with indifference, and be unconcerned about them; but, on the other hand, that they should be very zealous for them, ambitious of them, and earnestly covet them; since being rightly used and kept in their proper place, they were greatly beneficial and profitable to the churches of Christ, and the glory of God: but rather that ye may prophesy: of all the gifts of the Spirit, the apostle prefers prophesying, and recommends this to the Corinthians, as what they should be chiefly desirous of, and more desirous of than of speaking with tongues, which many among them were so very fond of: by which he means, not so much the gift of foretelling future events, though there was such a gift bestowed on some persons in those times, and, in certain cases, was very profitable to the churches; but a gift of preaching the word, or explaining the prophecies of the Old Testament, and of praying and singing of psalms, all which, as appears from some following parts of this chapter, were included in it; and that not in an ordinary, but in an extraordinary way; a person possessed of this gift could at once, without the use of means, or help of study, preach the word, and open the more difficult parts of Scripture; he had an extraordinary gift of prayer, which he could make use of when he pleased, and at once compose and deliver out a psalm, or hymn, in the public congregation.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, in the foregoing chapter, had himself preferred, and advised the Corinthians to prefer, Christian charity to all spiritual gifts. Here he teaches them, among spiritual gifts, which they should prefer, and by what rules they should make comparison. He begins the chapter, I. With an exhortation to charity (Co1 14:1): Follow after charity, pursue it. The original, diōkete, when spoken of a thing, signifies a singular concern to obtain it; and is commonly taken in a good and laudable sense. It is an exhortation to obtain charity, to get this excellent disposition of mind upon any terms, whatever pains or prayers it may cost: as if he had said, "In whatever you fail, see you do not miss of this; the principal of all graces is worth your getting at any rate." II. He directs them which spiritual gift to prefer, from a principle of charity: "Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that you may prophesy, or chiefly that you may prophesy." While they were in close pursuit of charity, and made this Christian disposition their chief scope, they might be zealous of spiritual gifts, be ambitious of them in some measure, but especially of prophesying, that is, of interpreting scripture. This preference would most plainly discover that they were indeed upon such pursuit, that they had a due value for Christian charity, and were intent upon it. Note, Gifts are fit objects of our desire and pursuit, in subordination to grace and charity. That should be sought first and with the greatest earnestness which is most worth. III. He assigns the reasons of this preference. And it is remarkable here that he only compares prophesying with speaking with tongues. It seems, this was the gift on which the Corinthians principally valued themselves. This was more ostentatious than the plain interpretation of scripture, more fit to gratify pride, but less fit to pursue the purposes of Christian charity; it would not equally edify nor do good to the souls of men. For, 1. He that spoke with tongues must wholly speak between God and himself; for, whatever mysteries might be communicated in his language, none of his own countrymen could understand them, because they did not understand the language, Co1 14:2. Note, What cannot be understood can never edify. No advantage can be reaped from the most excellent discourses, if delivered in unintelligible language, such as the audience can neither speak nor understand: but he that prophesies speaks to the advantage of his hearers; they may profit by his gift. Interpretation of scripture will be for their edification; they may be exhorted and comforted by it, Co1 14:3. And indeed these two must go together. Duty is the proper way to comfort; and those that would be comforted must bear being exhorted. 2. He that speaks with tongues may edify himself, Co1 14:4. He may understand and be affected with what he speaks; and so every minister should; and he that is most edified himself is in the disposition and fitness to do good to others by what he speaks; but he that speaks with tongues, or language unknown, can only edify himself; others can reap no benefit from his speech. Whereas the end of speaking in the church is to edify the church (Co1 14:4), to which prophesying, or interpreting scripture by inspiration or otherwise, is immediately adapted. Note, That is the best and most eligible gift which best answers the purposes of charity and does most good; not that which can edify ourselves only, but that which will edify the church. Such is prophesying, or preaching, and interpreting scripture, compared with speaking in an unknown tongue. 3. Indeed, no gift is to be despised, but the best gifts are to be preferred. I could wish, says the apostle, that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you prophesied, Co1 14:5. Every gift of God is a favour from God, and may be improved for his glory, and as such is to be valued and thankfully received; but then those are to be most valued that are most useful. Greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, unless he interpret, that the church may receive edifying, Co1 14:5. Benevolence makes a man truly great. It is more blessed to give than to receive. And it is true magnanimity to study and seek to be useful to others, rather than to raise their admiration and draw their esteem. Such a man has a large soul, copious and diffused in proportion to his benevolence and bent of mind for public good. Greater is he who interprets scripture to edify the church than he who speaks tongues to recommend himself. And what other end he who spoke with tongues could have, unless he interpreted what he spoke, is not easy to say, Note, That makes most for the honour of a minister which is most for the church's edification, not that which shows his gifts to most advantage. He acts in a narrow sphere, while he aims at himself; but his spirit and character increase in proportion to his usefulness, I mean his own intention and endeavours to be useful.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:1-25 Having emphasized the supreme importance of love (ch 13), Paul returns to the subject of spiritual gifts. Their relative value is defined by the benefit they give to others, which is characteristic of love (ch 13). In that light, Paul contrasts the over-valued gift of tongues with the more beneficial gift of prophecy. 14:1 Of all the special abilities the Spirit gives (see study note on 12:1–14:40), Paul encourages the Corinthians to seek the ability to prophesy (see 12:10) because of its greater benefit to the church.
1 Corinthians 14:1
Prophecy and Tongues
1Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.2For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit.
- Scripture
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(1 Corinthians) ch.14:1-15:19
By Zac Poonen8.5K44:12EXO 20:181CO 14:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on 1 Corinthians 14:1, which encourages Christians to pursue love and earnestly desire spiritual gifts. The aim in life should be to have the type of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, while also seeking the gifts of the Spirit. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not being imbalanced, but rather desiring both love and spiritual gifts. Specifically, the gift of prophecy is highlighted as a gift that builds up the whole church, contrasting it with speaking in tongues, which edifies oneself. The speaker also discusses how speaking in tongues allows the release of spiritual pressure, similar to water flowing through a pipe.
How to Be Filled
By L.E. Maxwell2.7K15:06ROM 12:21CO 14:12TI 3:16JAS 1:221PE 1:151JN 4:1REV 22:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of the Holy Spirit and the temple. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Holy Spirit as the third member of the Trinity and the various symbols used in the Bible to represent the Holy Spirit. The speaker also highlights the perplexity and differing views surrounding the subject, attributing them to partial understanding of scripture or personal experiences. Additionally, the speaker addresses the issue of being slaves to fashion and urges the audience to seek the true filling of the Holy Spirit.
Preaching - a Sacred Responsibility - Part 1
By Art Katz2.5K51:09PreachingPSA 46:10PRO 18:21ISA 55:11MAT 6:331CO 14:1EPH 4:29JAS 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the condition of the hearers in receiving the word of God. He criticizes the indifference and lack of reverence in the congregation, attributing it to their late-night activities and reliance on the preacher to deliver a spiritual experience. The speaker calls for the church to recognize its prophetic call and to correct preachers who have become too professional in their delivery. He also highlights the significance of silence and stillness in knowing and experiencing God.
Ger-18 the Kingdom of God
By Art Katz1.8K1:06:24Kingdom Of GodPRO 10:19MAT 6:331CO 14:11TI 3:2JAS 1:191PE 4:10REV 2:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the warm reception he always receives from the audience. He acknowledges that he may have already shared everything he has in previous sermons, but feels compelled to repeat certain teachings as they may not have been fully understood or received. The speaker then poses the question of what is the key to the kingdom, emphasizing that sacrificial living, intensive relationships, and unsparing correction are essential. He urges the audience to take the kingdom of God seriously and reevaluate their purpose and intentions, particularly in relation to the Jewish people. The speaker also cautions against excessive talking and encourages the use of fewer, more meaningful words.
(1 Corinthians) Overview to Chapter 14
By Brian Brodersen1.4K57:201CO 6:41CO 14:11CO 14:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying and applying 1 Corinthians 14, particularly for Pentecostal and Charismatic churches. The chapter provides practical advice on the ministry of spiritual gifts. The speaker highlights the need to pursue love and desire spiritual gifts, as well as the connection between chapters 12, 13, and 14 in discussing spiritual gifts. The chapter also addresses the proper use of gifts in the general assembly, and the speaker suggests that studying and applying this chapter can help eliminate strange practices in churches.
In Understanding Be Men
By Paris Reidhead1.4K34:08Understanding1CO 14:1In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 14, the speaker emphasizes the importance of approaching the world with a childlike mindset. He highlights the tendency to touch, taste, handle, and feel things as a natural part of life, but cautions against becoming consumed by worldly desires. The speaker encourages the audience to read the Bible with a sense of delight and to seek a deep understanding of God's truth and doctrine. He emphasizes the need for a heart that is childlike in appropriating the provisions of God's love and grace. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those who may not have had a proper understanding of the Christian life and a desire to be like Jesus.
Walking With God in Your Generation (Norwegian)
By Zac Poonen1.3K59:25GEN 5:22ISA 58:13LUK 21:24ACT 2:171CO 14:1HEB 4:9HEB 11:5HEB 11:72PE 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking with God and living a life that pleases Him, drawing inspiration from the examples of Enoch and Noah. It challenges young people to have a radical conversion like Enoch, to desire to prophesy, and to condemn the world by their way of life. The speaker highlights the need for strict yet loving parenting, involving children in building the church, and responding wholeheartedly to the call of God.
New Covenant - the Gifts of the Spirit -Part 5
By Zac Poonen1.1K09:29MAT 7:241CO 14:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's word, using the example of Moses being blessed despite disobedience. It delves into the significance of earnestly desiring spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, as the greatest gift to build up the body of Christ. The distinction between being a prophet and prophesying is highlighted, along with the purpose of spiritual gifts to bless others and the difference between the gifts and the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
New Covenant- Repentance & Heavenly Kingdom -5
By Zac Poonen1.1K09:09PSA 27:8PRO 8:17JER 29:13MAT 6:32LUK 11:9ACT 1:81CO 14:1HEB 11:6JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly above worldly desires, highlighting the need to earnestly desire spiritual gifts and the fullness of the Holy Spirit. It challenges listeners to prioritize seeking the kingdom of God and holiness, stressing that only those who seek God with all their heart will find Him. The speaker shares personal experiences of transformation through the Holy Spirit and underscores the significance of valuing and passionately pursuing God's gifts for effective service.
Corinthians: Concerning the Spiritual
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:13:18ACT 2:33ACT 2:361CO 12:11CO 12:271CO 14:11CO 15:58In this sermon, Peter and the eleven disciples are explaining the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to a crowd in the temple area. Peter emphasizes that what the people see and hear is the Holy Spirit being poured out. He then declares that Jesus, whom they had crucified, is both Lord and Christ. The sermon transitions to a discussion of spiritual principles and the need for understanding in the spiritual realm. The speaker references First Corinthians chapter 12, emphasizing the importance of understanding spirituality and the potential for confusion without such understanding.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Church - Part 2
By Zac Poonen9441:00:37MAT 12:19LUK 4:161CO 14:1HEB 3:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the anointing of the Holy Spirit to serve others selflessly, following the example of Jesus. It highlights the need to prophesy to edify, exhort, and console others, rather than seeking personal gain or fame. The message encourages believers to pursue love, humility, and the ministry of building up one another daily through words of encouragement and prophecy.
Revelation 2:1 Missionary Conf.
By J.M. Davies9281:01:28JDG 18:11CO 14:1REV 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the darkness that exists in the world and the importance of following the Lord. They highlight the cost of following the Lord, but also emphasize that not following Him is even more costly. The speaker shares a personal experience of realizing the responsibility to teach their family about the Lord. They also discuss the importance of instruction and teaching in the assembly and the need for ministerial, collective, and individual responsibility. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the days ahead.
The Supernatural Gifts of the Holy Spirit - Part 2
By Shane Idleman84447:20Holy SpiritSpiritual GiftsJOL 2:28JHN 14:26ACT 2:21ROM 10:131CO 12:41CO 13:11CO 14:1GAL 5:22EPH 4:111PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of knowing Jesus Christ as the Savior and the importance of calling upon His name for salvation and deliverance from life's struggles. He discusses the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit, particularly the gift of tongues, and addresses the confusion and division surrounding these gifts within the church. Shane encourages believers to be open to the Holy Spirit's work in their lives, emphasizing that these gifts are meant for the edification of the church and the empowerment of believers. He warns against spiritual pride, urging humility and a willingness to seek God's truth regarding the gifts of the Spirit. Ultimately, Shane calls for a deeper relationship with Christ, highlighting that true peace and transformation come from surrendering to the Holy Spirit.
Corinthians - Paul's Criterion for Evaluating the Gifts of the Spirit
By J. Glyn Owen73954:53Spiritual Gifts1CO 14:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love in the life of a believer. He encourages the audience to prioritize love above all else, stating that without love, everything else is meaningless. However, he also emphasizes that love does not negate the need for spiritual gifts. The speaker urges the church to expect and seek out individuals who are anointed by the Holy Spirit to bring forth a word from God with power and fire. He concludes by highlighting the importance of continually reminding ourselves of these truths and allowing them to shape our lives.
Holy Spirit 5
By William MacDonald68744:47Holy SpiritMAT 6:331CO 12:11CO 14:11CO 14:12EPH 5:18JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young man named Jeff who boldly approached a Greek Orthodox priest in a supermarket to inquire about the meaning of the cross. Despite causing a slight disruption, Jeff's actions were driven by a holy boldness and a desire to witness for Christ. The speaker then goes on to discuss the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, referencing Ephesians 5:18. He emphasizes the need to constantly be filled with the Spirit and highlights the actions that should accompany this filling, such as speaking, singing, thanking, and submitting. The speaker also encourages listeners to be diligent in the work that God has assigned to them and to find contentment in it, as God's guidance often comes when we are busy fulfilling our responsibilities.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 26
By Zac Poonen63224:53ISA 50:4MAT 7:61CO 2:21CO 14:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of discernment in sharing the message of God, highlighting the need to give appropriate truth to individuals based on their spiritual level and readiness. It explores the significance of understanding the foundational truths of Christianity, such as Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, before delving into deeper teachings like the Sermon on the Mount. The sermon also underscores the need for prophetic insight and discernment in ministering God's Word effectively to address the specific needs of each person.
The Issue Is Knowing God
By Robert B. Thompson5971:13:58EXO 4:17LEV 10:1NUM 16:1NUM 27:20ROM 12:31CO 14:1HEB 5:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a personal struggle they faced regarding the idea of taking action versus waiting on God's guidance. They were torn between the urgency of the world's problems and the need to hear from God before acting. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will and being led by the Holy Spirit rather than blindly rushing into action. They share their own experiences, including a moment on a bus where they realized the importance of discerning God's voice. Ultimately, the speaker highlights the significance of prayer and waiting on God's timing in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Cd Gv498 Why I Joined Ad 2000
By George Verwer58100:00MAT 22:37ROM 12:91CO 13:41CO 14:1EPH 4:151PE 4:81JN 4:8In this video, George Verwer, the International Coordinator of Operation Mobilization, shares his reasons for becoming involved in the 82,000 and beyond movement for the mobilization of new missionaries. He acknowledges the criticism and misunderstandings surrounding the movement but emphasizes the importance of following God's word and building on its foundation. Verwer mentions various teachings and books that have influenced his perspective, including the emphasis on love and integrity. He also highlights the complexity of the church and the idea that failure can lead to success in God's work.
Ministry in the Spirit - 5. the Gift of Tongues and Prayer Language
By Michael Flowers45433:22Tongues1CO 13:81CO 14:11CO 14:31CO 14:121CO 14:221CO 14:26In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of exercising spiritual gifts in the context of the corporate gathering. They emphasize the need for order and understanding in the manifestation of these gifts. The speaker acknowledges that their interpretation and theology are not foolproof, but they draw from their experiences in the charismatic renewal movement and teaching on this topic globally. They also mention the concept of seeing things dimly in the present, but having faith in what will be fully known when Jesus returns.
When God Builds a Church
By Shane Idleman1741:01Gifts of the Holy SpiritBuilding a ChurchMAT 7:21JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 12:41CO 12:11CO 13:11CO 14:1EPH 4:11HEB 10:241PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes that when God builds a church, it will thrive on the right foundation, which includes upholding truth, fostering unity, and prioritizing prayer. He discusses the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as faith, miracles, and healing, asserting that these gifts are still relevant today and essential for a vibrant church. Idleman highlights that love must be the motive behind all actions within the church, and he encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God to experience the fullness of the Spirit's power. He concludes with a call to readiness for Christ's return, urging listeners to open their hearts to God's truth and grace.
The Gift of Prophecy
By Brian Guerin346:06ProphecySpiritual GiftsZEC 4:7MAT 7:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 13:11CO 14:1EPH 4:111TH 5:201PE 4:10REV 19:10Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of prophecy in the Christian life, encouraging believers to pursue a personal relationship with God and to be open to the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy. He illustrates the importance of bearing fruit in one's life as a reflection of one's walk with the Lord, and he shares personal anecdotes to highlight the necessity of encouragement and edification within the church community. Guerin also addresses the misconceptions surrounding prophecy, advocating for a healthy approach that allows for growth and learning, while emphasizing that prophecy should be rooted in love and aimed at building up the church. He encourages the congregation to eagerly desire the gift of prophecy, assuring them that mistakes are part of the learning process, and ultimately, the goal is to glorify God and strengthen one another.
The Gift of Tongues
By Smith Wigglesworth1Edification through TonguesSpiritual Gifts1CO 14:1Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of desiring spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of tongues, as a means of divine communication with God. He illustrates how speaking in tongues allows believers to edify themselves and intercede according to God's will, sharing a testimony of Willie Burton's miraculous recovery through prayer in tongues. Wigglesworth encourages believers to pursue the gifts of the Spirit with fervor, highlighting that while tongues are for personal edification, prophecy serves to build up the church. He stresses the importance of understanding and interpreting tongues for the benefit of the congregation, urging believers to remain steadfast in their pursuit of spiritual gifts.
The Variety of the Spirit's Working
By Zac Poonen0GEN 32:26LUK 11:13JHN 3:8ROM 12:61CO 12:81CO 14:1HEB 11:6JAS 4:2Zac Poonen preaches on the Holy Spirit being likened to the wind in the Scriptures, emphasizing that each believer's experience of being baptized in the Spirit will be unique, with the inner endowment of power being the crucial aspect. God bestows gifts of power through the Spirit for effective service in building up the church, with prophecy highlighted as a valuable gift for challenging, encouraging, and comforting others. Other gifts include serving, teaching, healing, exhorting, giving, and leadership, along with the gift of tongues for prayer and praise beyond language limitations. Believers are encouraged to seek God for the baptism of the Spirit, claiming their birthright and asking for assurance, as God eagerly gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask.
With the Spirit and Understanding
By G.W. North0Prophecy vs. TonguesSpiritual Gifts1CO 14:1G.W. North emphasizes the superiority of Prophecy over Tongues in the church, explaining that while Tongues engages only the spirit, Prophecy involves both spirit and understanding, making it more beneficial for communication and comprehension among believers. He clarifies that both gifts are divinely given for spontaneous utterances in the church, but they serve different purposes and should not be conflated with preaching or other forms of speech. North argues that Prophecy is adaptable and universally applicable, while Tongues is a specific expression of prophetic utterance, highlighting the need for clarity in understanding these spiritual gifts.
Growth in Love
By E. Stanley Jones0JHN 13:341CO 14:1EPH 1:5COL 3:141JN 4:71JN 4:19E. Stanley Jones emphasizes the inherent capacity and necessity of love within us, highlighting that self-interest and other-interest are both inherent in children, with happiness found in being other-interested. Our destiny is to love, and living against this destiny leads to unhappiness for ourselves and those around us. By choosing to be people of love, we align with the universe's design and fulfill our destiny, making love our central life purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Follow after charity - Most earnestly labor to be put in possession of that love which beareth, believeth, hopeth, and endureth all things. It may be difficult to acquire, and difficult to retain this blessed state, but it is essential to your present peace and eternal happiness. This clause belongs to the preceding chapter. Desire spiritual gifts - Ye are very intent on getting those splendid gifts which may add to your worldly consequence, and please your carnal minds - but labor rather to get the gifts of God's Spirit, by which ye may grow in grace, and be useful to others - and particularly desire that ye may prophesy - that ye may be able to teach and instruct others in the things of their salvation.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Follow after charity,.... The apostle having so highly commended charity, or love, in the preceding chapter, presses here to an eager pursuit after it; that is, to an exercise of it, and after those things which make for it, and will serve to maintain and increase it: and everything he has said in praise of it before serves as an argument, or reason, to follow hard after it, with an eagerness used in hunting, and with such violence as persecutors express in pursuing and laying hold on those they seek after, to which there is an allusion in the word here used: and desire spiritual gifts: for though he had given charity the preference to them, he did not mean that they should despise and neglect them, or treat them with indifference, and be unconcerned about them; but, on the other hand, that they should be very zealous for them, ambitious of them, and earnestly covet them; since being rightly used and kept in their proper place, they were greatly beneficial and profitable to the churches of Christ, and the glory of God: but rather that ye may prophesy: of all the gifts of the Spirit, the apostle prefers prophesying, and recommends this to the Corinthians, as what they should be chiefly desirous of, and more desirous of than of speaking with tongues, which many among them were so very fond of: by which he means, not so much the gift of foretelling future events, though there was such a gift bestowed on some persons in those times, and, in certain cases, was very profitable to the churches; but a gift of preaching the word, or explaining the prophecies of the Old Testament, and of praying and singing of psalms, all which, as appears from some following parts of this chapter, were included in it; and that not in an ordinary, but in an extraordinary way; a person possessed of this gift could at once, without the use of means, or help of study, preach the word, and open the more difficult parts of Scripture; he had an extraordinary gift of prayer, which he could make use of when he pleased, and at once compose and deliver out a psalm, or hymn, in the public congregation.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, in the foregoing chapter, had himself preferred, and advised the Corinthians to prefer, Christian charity to all spiritual gifts. Here he teaches them, among spiritual gifts, which they should prefer, and by what rules they should make comparison. He begins the chapter, I. With an exhortation to charity (Co1 14:1): Follow after charity, pursue it. The original, diōkete, when spoken of a thing, signifies a singular concern to obtain it; and is commonly taken in a good and laudable sense. It is an exhortation to obtain charity, to get this excellent disposition of mind upon any terms, whatever pains or prayers it may cost: as if he had said, "In whatever you fail, see you do not miss of this; the principal of all graces is worth your getting at any rate." II. He directs them which spiritual gift to prefer, from a principle of charity: "Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that you may prophesy, or chiefly that you may prophesy." While they were in close pursuit of charity, and made this Christian disposition their chief scope, they might be zealous of spiritual gifts, be ambitious of them in some measure, but especially of prophesying, that is, of interpreting scripture. This preference would most plainly discover that they were indeed upon such pursuit, that they had a due value for Christian charity, and were intent upon it. Note, Gifts are fit objects of our desire and pursuit, in subordination to grace and charity. That should be sought first and with the greatest earnestness which is most worth. III. He assigns the reasons of this preference. And it is remarkable here that he only compares prophesying with speaking with tongues. It seems, this was the gift on which the Corinthians principally valued themselves. This was more ostentatious than the plain interpretation of scripture, more fit to gratify pride, but less fit to pursue the purposes of Christian charity; it would not equally edify nor do good to the souls of men. For, 1. He that spoke with tongues must wholly speak between God and himself; for, whatever mysteries might be communicated in his language, none of his own countrymen could understand them, because they did not understand the language, Co1 14:2. Note, What cannot be understood can never edify. No advantage can be reaped from the most excellent discourses, if delivered in unintelligible language, such as the audience can neither speak nor understand: but he that prophesies speaks to the advantage of his hearers; they may profit by his gift. Interpretation of scripture will be for their edification; they may be exhorted and comforted by it, Co1 14:3. And indeed these two must go together. Duty is the proper way to comfort; and those that would be comforted must bear being exhorted. 2. He that speaks with tongues may edify himself, Co1 14:4. He may understand and be affected with what he speaks; and so every minister should; and he that is most edified himself is in the disposition and fitness to do good to others by what he speaks; but he that speaks with tongues, or language unknown, can only edify himself; others can reap no benefit from his speech. Whereas the end of speaking in the church is to edify the church (Co1 14:4), to which prophesying, or interpreting scripture by inspiration or otherwise, is immediately adapted. Note, That is the best and most eligible gift which best answers the purposes of charity and does most good; not that which can edify ourselves only, but that which will edify the church. Such is prophesying, or preaching, and interpreting scripture, compared with speaking in an unknown tongue. 3. Indeed, no gift is to be despised, but the best gifts are to be preferred. I could wish, says the apostle, that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you prophesied, Co1 14:5. Every gift of God is a favour from God, and may be improved for his glory, and as such is to be valued and thankfully received; but then those are to be most valued that are most useful. Greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, unless he interpret, that the church may receive edifying, Co1 14:5. Benevolence makes a man truly great. It is more blessed to give than to receive. And it is true magnanimity to study and seek to be useful to others, rather than to raise their admiration and draw their esteem. Such a man has a large soul, copious and diffused in proportion to his benevolence and bent of mind for public good. Greater is he who interprets scripture to edify the church than he who speaks tongues to recommend himself. And what other end he who spoke with tongues could have, unless he interpreted what he spoke, is not easy to say, Note, That makes most for the honour of a minister which is most for the church's edification, not that which shows his gifts to most advantage. He acts in a narrow sphere, while he aims at himself; but his spirit and character increase in proportion to his usefulness, I mean his own intention and endeavours to be useful.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:1-25 Having emphasized the supreme importance of love (ch 13), Paul returns to the subject of spiritual gifts. Their relative value is defined by the benefit they give to others, which is characteristic of love (ch 13). In that light, Paul contrasts the over-valued gift of tongues with the more beneficial gift of prophecy. 14:1 Of all the special abilities the Spirit gives (see study note on 12:1–14:40), Paul encourages the Corinthians to seek the ability to prophesy (see 12:10) because of its greater benefit to the church.