1 Corinthians 14:1-5
Gifts that build up the church through clear understanding should be pursued above those that do not edify others.
1 Follow after love and earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.
2 For he who speaks in another language speaks not to men, but to God; for no one understands; but in the Spirit he speaks mysteries.
3 But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, exhortation, and consolation.
4 He who speaks in another language edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the assembly.
5 Now I desire to have you all speak with other languages, but rather that you would prophesy. For he is greater who prophesies than he who speaks with other languages, unless he interprets, that the assembly may be built up.
Gifts that build up the church through clear understanding should be pursued above those that do not edify others.
Paul urges believers to pursue love while eagerly desiring spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, because it edifies the church through understandable speech.
Chapter 14 resumes the discussion of spiritual gifts that began in chapter 12 and was reframed through the supremacy of love in chapter 13. The Corinthians had become fascinated with tongues and other dramatic experiences. Paul now provides pastoral correction by establishing a governing priority: gifts must serve the edification of the gathered church. Prophecy is therefore emphasized because it communicates understandable truth that strengthens the congregation.
In Corinth, the gift of tongues had become a source of fascination and possibly prestige. Some believers appeared to prioritize dramatic spiritual expressions over intelligible teaching. Paul addresses this imbalance by emphasizing gifts that strengthen the gathered church, particularly prophecy.
Pursue Love, Desire Gifts, and Let All Things Be Done for Edification and Order
Because love seeks the good of others, spiritual gifts in gathered worship must be exercised in ways that are intelligible, edifying, discerning, peaceful, and orderly under the authority of the Lord.