1 corinthians 14:26 - 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, has an interpretation. Let all things be done to build each other up.
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What does "1 corinthians 14:26" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 14:26, is part of Paul's larger discussion on the use of spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church. They were apparently prioritizing showy gifts like speaking in tongues (glossolalia) without interpretation, leading to confusion and a lack of edification for the whole community. Paul is trying to redirect their focus to gifts that build up the church as a whole. Let's break down the meaning of the verse phrase by phrase:
"What is it then, brothers?" This is a rhetorical question Paul uses to transition to his point. He's essentially asking, "What's the proper way to approach your gatherings?"
"When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has another language, has an interpretation." This describes the participatory nature of their gatherings. Paul acknowledges that many members of the church felt they had something to contribute - a spiritual gift to share. These gifts could include:
A psalm: A song or hymn, likely inspired by the Holy Spirit.
A teaching: Instruction based on Scripture, explaining or applying its meaning.
A revelation: A newly given insight or understanding from God.
Another language: Speaking in tongues (glossolalia), a spiritual language not learned through normal means.
An interpretation: The ability to translate the message of tongues into a language understandable by the congregation.
The key point here is that many members felt called to participate, not just a select few leaders.
"Let all things be done to build each other up." This is the crucial principle. Paul emphasizes that the purpose of their gatherings and the exercise of spiritual gifts should be the edification (building up, strengthening, encouraging) of the entire church community. The goal shouldn't be to impress others, show off spiritual prowess, or create confusion. Instead, every contribution should contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of everyone present.
In summary, the verse means:
When you gather together as a church, it's wonderful that many of you feel inspired to share your spiritual gifts – whether it's a song, a lesson, a new insight, speaking in tongues, or interpreting tongues. However, make sure that everything you do serves the purpose of strengthening and encouraging one another. Prioritize gifts and expressions that everyone can understand and that benefit the entire community, leading to their spiritual growth.
Key takeaways:
Participation is good, but not at the expense of understanding. Paul isn't discouraging the use of spiritual gifts; he's advocating for their appropriate use.
Edification is the ultimate goal. The primary aim of church gatherings should be the spiritual growth and well-being of the community.
Love and consideration for others are paramount. Self-centered expressions of gifts are counterproductive. True spiritual gifts are used in love to serve others.
Order and clarity are important. A chaotic and confusing environment hinders edification.
1 corinthians 14:26 - 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, has an interpretation. Let all things be done to build each other up.
What does "1 corinthians 14:26" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 14:26, is part of Paul's larger discussion on the use of spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church. They were apparently prioritizing showy gifts like speaking in tongues (glossolalia) without interpretation, leading to confusion and a lack of edification for the whole community. Paul is trying to redirect their focus to gifts that build up the church as a whole. Let's break down the meaning of the verse phrase by phrase:
"What is it then, brothers?" This is a rhetorical question Paul uses to transition to his point. He's essentially asking, "What's the proper way to approach your gatherings?"
"When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has another language, has an interpretation." This describes the participatory nature of their gatherings. Paul acknowledges that many members of the church felt they had something to contribute - a spiritual gift to share. These gifts could include:
A psalm: A song or hymn, likely inspired by the Holy Spirit.
A teaching: Instruction based on Scripture, explaining or applying its meaning.
A revelation: A newly given insight or understanding from God.
Another language: Speaking in tongues (glossolalia), a spiritual language not learned through normal means.
An interpretation: The ability to translate the message of tongues into a language understandable by the congregation.
The key point here is that many members felt called to participate, not just a select few leaders.
"Let all things be done to build each other up." This is the crucial principle. Paul emphasizes that the purpose of their gatherings and the exercise of spiritual gifts should be the edification (building up, strengthening, encouraging) of the entire church community. The goal shouldn't be to impress others, show off spiritual prowess, or create confusion. Instead, every contribution should contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of everyone present.
In summary, the verse means:
When you gather together as a church, it's wonderful that many of you feel inspired to share your spiritual gifts – whether it's a song, a lesson, a new insight, speaking in tongues, or interpreting tongues. However, make sure that everything you do serves the purpose of strengthening and encouraging one another. Prioritize gifts and expressions that everyone can understand and that benefit the entire community, leading to their spiritual growth.
Key takeaways:
Participation is good, but not at the expense of understanding. Paul isn't discouraging the use of spiritual gifts; he's advocating for their appropriate use.
Edification is the ultimate goal. The primary aim of church gatherings should be the spiritual growth and well-being of the community.
Love and consideration for others are paramount. Self-centered expressions of gifts are counterproductive. True spiritual gifts are used in love to serve others.
Order and clarity are important. A chaotic and confusing environment hinders edification.