1 Corinthians 14:26-33
Orderly worship ensures that spiritual gifts edify the whole church.
26 What is it then, brothers? When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has another language, or has an interpretation. Let all things be done to build each other up.
27 If any man speaks in another language, let it be two, or at the most three, and in turn; and let one interpret.
28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in the assembly, and let him speak to himself, and to God.
29 Let the prophets speak, two or three, and let the others discern.
30 But if a revelation is made to another sitting by, let the first keep silent.
31 For you all can prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted.
32 The spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets,
33 for God is not a God of confusion, but of peace, as in all the assemblies of the saints.
Orderly worship ensures that spiritual gifts edify the whole church.
Paul provides practical instructions for orderly participation in the gathered church so that spiritual gifts function in a way that strengthens the entire body.
Paul moves from theological explanation to practical instructions for church gatherings. Earlier he emphasized intelligible speech and the edification of the church. Now he outlines how multiple participants can contribute to worship without producing confusion. His instructions regulate the use of tongues and prophecy so that the congregation remains strengthened rather than overwhelmed by disorder.
Corinthian gatherings likely involved multiple participants contributing to worship. Without guidance, these contributions may have produced confusion or competition. Paul therefore establishes practical limits so that spiritual activity strengthens rather than disrupts the church.
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.