Read 1 Corinthians 14:1–25
Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts.
1 Corinthians 14:1
A ministry that does not build up will fall down, no matter how spiritual it may seem. When we explain and apply the Word of God to
individual lives, we have a ministry of edification. In this section, Paul
repeatedly shows concern for understanding. It is not enough for the
minister to impart information to people; the people must receive
it if it is to do them any good. The seed that is received in the good
ground is the seed that bears fruit, but this means that there must
be an understanding of the Word of God (Matt. 13:23). If believers
want to be edified, they must prepare their hearts to receive the Word
(1 Thess. 2:13).
Congregationalist minister Dr. Joseph Parker preached at an
important meeting and afterward was approached by a man who
criticized a minor point in the sermon. Parker listened patiently to
the man’s criticism and then asked, “And what else did you get from
the message?” This remark simply withered the critic, who then disappeared into the crowd. Too often we are quick to judge the sermon
instead of allowing the Word of God to judge us.
Something to Ponder
In what ways have people “built you up” this week? What opportunities did they miss?