This chapter deals with a difficult discussion of tongues and prophecy – the charismatic gifts of the Holy Spirit. Quite often people get distracted in this chapter from the main points and find themselves discussing whether or not these specific gifts have ceased or continue today. But if we ask a different question we can see how this discussion applies to us regardless of where we stand relating to the charismatic gifts. Let us then ask this question: How does Paul call the Corinthians to use their gifts and who are they to serve?
Paul’s desire of the church at Corinth is that they seek the gift of prophecy because it speaks to men for their strength, encouragement and comfort (v. 3) and that it edifies the church (v. 4-5). He reaffirms this point in verse 12, “Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church” (NIV). Even as Paul talks about orderly worship (vv. 26-39) he focuses on the edification and strengthening of the church.
So how does this help us in thinking about spiritual gifts? First of all, do you know what your spiritual gifts are? Secondly, we are to use our gifts because God has given them to us to use and to encourage each other. Thirdly, they are to be done for the glory of God not for the glory of ourselves.
There is another area of the Christian life that this touches on. Specifically, how we think about church itself. As a believer in Christ we are a member of the body and therefore we are to serve each other. We cannot and must not think of church as social club with religious overtones but an essential part of life. Since spiritual gifts are given to edify and strengthen the church, then every Christian (because each is given a gift for the good of the body) is integral to the health of each other.
Since God has arranged the church just as he wanted it to be (12:18), let us then live in love and serve one another.
Posted By Aaron
Saturday, October 25, 2008
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4 comments:
What about the part that says women should remain silent in church?
What is your question?
There are things that are said by Paul in 1 Corinthians that the modern day church does not buy into, for example, women wearing head coverings or not speaking out in the church. Why don't we practice these things? Why is it our choice to make? How do we know what to ignore and what to apply to our lives now?
You raise some very important and good questions that essentially surround the issue of how to interpret the Bible. First of all, let me say that we never ignore anything in the Bible for it is all God-Breathed and useful (2 Tim 3:16-18). However, the Bible does not work as an instruction manual on the Christian life as say our DVD manuals work today. That does not mean we cannot understand it or apply the Bible to our lives or that it is not accessible to everybody. It is just that some areas are not as clear as others. Salvation in Christ is fairly obvious; what his second coming looks like is not.
The issues surrounding Paul’s letters to the Corinthians are sources of contention and debate in the church. The basics steps to interpreting these passages would be to first understand the passage in light of the rest of the book (2 Corinthians). In this case, what is Paul driving at, or what is the underlying issue(s) he is dealing with? He is dealing with practical issues in a particular historical context. So we must next understand that context in and to which Paul is writing. Finally, we must look at this passage in light of the entire Bible. Then we can ask questions such as: Are there points of unity or disunity with other parts of the Bible? Is there any historical development from the OT to the NT?
Unfortunately, space and time does not allow a full and specific treatment of your question, but this lays out a basis to answering it. If you have further questions talk to your local pastor and he can help guide you in the right direction.
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