1 Corinthians 14:36-40
Spirit-filled worship is guided by apostolic truth and practiced in orderly edification.
36 What!? Was it from you that the word of God went out? Or did it come to you alone?
37 If any man thinks himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him recognize the things which I write to you, that they are the commandment of the Lord.
38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.
39 Therefore, brothers, desire earnestly to prophesy, and don’t forbid speaking with other languages.
40 Let all things be done decently and in order.
Spirit-filled worship is guided by apostolic truth and practiced in orderly edification.
Paul concludes his teaching on orderly worship by affirming apostolic authority and instructing the church to pursue prophecy while ensuring that all things are done properly and in order.
This section closes Paul's extended teaching on spiritual gifts that began in chapter 12. Throughout chapters 12–14 Paul has corrected Corinthian misunderstandings about gifts, love, and corporate worship. Here he rebukes any attitude of independence that would reject apostolic instruction. His final summary restates the two governing priorities for worship: believers should desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, and all activity must occur with order and propriety so the church is strengthened.
Some believers in Corinth may have questioned Paul's authority or believed their spiritual experiences gave them independence from apostolic instruction. Paul addresses this attitude by reminding them that his directives carry the authority of the Lord.
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.