1. Eagerly desire the gift of prophecy (1-5)

Paul urges Christians in Corinth to pursue the way of love and eagerly desire the gift of prophecy. Speaking tongues is directed only to God and no one understands them unless interpreted. Paul says to seek spiritual gifts that build up others such as prophecy. In the New Testament, the emphasis of prophecy is not predicting the future, but revealing Christ through God's word to strengthen, encourage, and comfort others. If we speak tongues, it edifies only us, but if we reveal Christ through God's word, it builds up the church. In exercising our spiritual gifts, we need to consider the edification of the church first.

2. Excel in gifts that build up the church (6-12)

Without interpretation, speaking in tongues is like playing musical instruments out of tune that confuses people. Therefore, we must use intelligible words to communicate with others. That's why Paul wants us to ask the Spirit for the gift of prophecy that builds up the church instead of for personal edification like speaking in tongues.


Application: Lord, thank you for the spiritual gifts given to the church to edify it. Please grant me the gifts of the Spirit necessary to serve and build up your people.
One Word: Spiritual gifts to edify the church