Edification Through Order: Embracing Spiritual Gifts in Love
Summary
Jesus, you are the source of all strength and healing, and apart from you, we can do nothing. As we gather as your people, we long to be led by your Spirit, not by our own agendas or preferences. The church in Corinth, much like a circus, was full of chaos and confusion when it came to spiritual gifts. They were richly gifted, but their gatherings lacked order and clarity, often becoming a spectacle rather than a place of edification. Paul’s words to the Corinthians remind us that the gifts of the Spirit are not for show or self-promotion, but for the building up of the church in love.
When we come together, whether in large gatherings or small groups, the purpose of spiritual gifts is always edification. Prophecy, in particular, is meant to encourage, strengthen, and comfort others. Tongues, while a beautiful and powerful gift, are best expressed in private prayer or, if in public, with interpretation so that all may be built up. We must be wise and discerning, reading the room and considering the needs of both believers and newcomers. The goal is not confusion, but clarity—so that everyone can understand and respond to the call of Jesus.
Paul uses vivid illustrations to drive home the need for clarity: musical instruments must play in harmony, the trumpet must give a clear call to battle, and language must be intelligible. If our gatherings are filled with noise but lack understanding, we miss the point. Order is essential—not to stifle the Spirit, but to ensure that what happens is truly from God and for the good of all. The Holy Spirit is gentle and brings peace, not disorder. We are called to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, but always to exercise them in a fitting and orderly way.
As we approach the Lord’s table, we remember that our focus is not on our failures, but on the grace of Jesus—his body broken and his blood shed for us. Communion is a sacred reminder of the new covenant and the forgiveness we have in Christ. Let us hold fast to what is good, examine everything carefully, and never quench the Spirit. May our gatherings be marked by love, clarity, order, and the presence of Jesus, who is our healer, teacher, and Lord.
Key Takeaways
- Spiritual Gifts Are for Edification, Not Exhibition
The gifts of the Spirit are given to build up the church, not to showcase individual spirituality or create confusion. When prophecy or tongues are expressed, the aim should always be the strengthening, encouragement, and comfort of others. If our use of gifts draws attention to ourselves rather than to Christ, we have missed their true purpose. Let love be the foundation that holds all things together and makes our gatherings life-giving. [03:25]
- Discernment and Wisdom Are Essential in Spiritual Matters
Not every spiritual experience or prompting is meant for public expression, especially in large gatherings where newcomers may be present. We must be wise, reading the room and seeking the Spirit’s guidance for when and how to use our gifts. Discernment protects the church from confusion and ensures that what is shared is truly from God and for the good of all. The Spirit’s gifts are best stewarded with humility and sensitivity. [06:35]
- Clarity and Order Reflect the Character of God
God is not a God of disorder, but of peace. Our gatherings should reflect this by being clear, intelligible, and orderly. Whether through music, teaching, or the exercise of gifts, everything should be done so that all can understand and be edified. When there is clarity, the church is strengthened and the message of Jesus is accessible to all, including those unfamiliar with Christian language or practice. [20:34]
- Authentic Encounters with the Spirit Are Gentle and Life-Giving
The Holy Spirit does not force, manipulate, or create chaos. Authentic moves of the Spirit bring peace, healing, and encouragement. Even when spiritual gifts are expressed in powerful ways, they should never override the fruit of the Spirit—gentleness, self-control, and love. If something feels forced or out of order, it is wise to pause, seek discernment, and remember that the Spirit never interrupts himself. [27:02]
- Communion Centers Us on Grace, Not Our Failures
As we take the bread and the cup, our focus is not on our shortcomings, but on the finished work of Jesus. Communion is a sacred act that reminds us of the new covenant, the forgiveness of sins, and the hope of Christ’s return. It is a time to give thanks, renew our allegiance to Jesus, and celebrate the grace that covers all our failures. Let this be a moment of gratitude and worship, not self-condemnation. [29:54]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:01] - Opening Prayer and Healing
[01:57] - The Circus of Corinth and Spiritual Gifts
[03:25] - Gifted but Chaotic: The Corinthians’ Struggle
[06:35] - Navigating Spiritual Gifts: Wisdom and Balance
[09:03] - Interpreting Difficult Passages
[11:48] - Prophecy vs. Tongues: Edification in Focus
[13:34] - The “Hot Seat” and Encouragement in Practice
[15:05] - Openness to the Spirit’s Leading
[16:30] - The Purpose and Practice of Tongues
[18:14] - Discernment in a Digital Age
[19:37] - The Need for Discernment and Clarity
[20:34] - Clarity in Worship: Paul’s Illustrations
[23:01] - Musical Harmony and Spiritual Order
[23:47] - Language, Understanding, and Edification
[26:07] - Order in Gatherings: Gentle Correction
[27:02] - The Spirit’s Authenticity and Peace
[28:32] - Communion: Remembering Grace
[29:54] - The New Covenant and Our Response
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: When We Gather – Spiritual Gifts, Order, and Grace
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### Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 14:1-33 (ESV)
> Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up. ... (Read through verse 33)
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (ESV)
> For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 14, what is the main purpose of spiritual gifts like prophecy and tongues when the church gathers? ([11:48])
2. What are the three illustrations Paul uses in 1 Corinthians 14 to explain the need for clarity and order in church gatherings? ([20:34])
3. How does Paul describe the difference between the use of tongues in private prayer versus in a public church setting? ([16:30])
4. What does Paul say is the focus when we take communion, according to 1 Corinthians 11? ([29:54])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize that spiritual gifts should be used for edification and not for self-promotion or confusion? How does this challenge the way spiritual gifts are sometimes used today? ([03:25])
2. What might be the consequences for a church if there is a lack of order and clarity during gatherings? How could this affect both believers and newcomers? ([20:34])
3. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit is gentle and brings peace, not chaos. How can someone discern whether a spiritual experience is truly from the Holy Spirit? ([27:02])
4. When Paul instructs the church to “examine everything carefully” and “hold fast to what is good,” what does this look like in practice, especially regarding spiritual gifts and communion? ([28:32])
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### Application Questions
1. Have you ever experienced a church gathering that felt chaotic or confusing? How did it affect your ability to worship or feel encouraged? What could have been done differently to bring more order and clarity? ([03:25])
2. The sermon talked about “reading the room” and being wise about when and how to use spiritual gifts. Can you think of a time when you or someone else needed to show more discernment in a group setting? What did you learn from that experience? ([06:35])
3. Prophecy is meant to encourage, strengthen, and comfort others. Is there someone in your life or in this group who could use a word of encouragement right now? How might you step out in faith to build them up? ([13:34])
4. The pastor shared about the importance of not quenching the Spirit but also not forcing things. How can you personally stay open to the Holy Spirit’s leading while also being sensitive to the needs of others in a group? ([27:02])
5. When you take communion, do you tend to focus more on your failures or on the grace of Jesus? How might you shift your focus to gratitude and worship the next time you participate in communion? ([29:54])
6. The sermon encouraged us to “hold fast to what is good” and “examine everything carefully.” What is one area in your spiritual life where you need to be more discerning or careful right now? ([28:32])
7. The Corinthians’ gatherings sometimes became a spectacle rather than a place of edification. What practical steps can our group take to make sure our times together are marked by love, clarity, and the presence of Jesus? ([20:34])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the Holy Spirit to lead your group in love, clarity, and order. Ask for discernment and a fresh focus on the grace of Jesus as you seek to build one another up.
Devotional
Day 1: Spiritual Gifts Are for Edification, Not Confusion
The gifts of the Spirit are given to build up and encourage the church, not to create confusion or chaos. When spiritual gifts are expressed, they should always result in the strengthening, encouragement, and comfort of others, rather than drawing attention to oneself or causing disorder. As you gather with others, seek to use your gifts in a way that brings clarity and blessing to the whole body, remembering that love is the foundation that holds everything together. [11:48]
1 Corinthians 14:3-5, 12, 26 (ESV)
"On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up... So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church... What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up."
Reflection:
How can you intentionally use your words or actions today to encourage and build up someone in your church or community, rather than seeking attention for yourself?
Day 2: Clarity and Order in Worship
When the church gathers, God desires that everything be done with clarity and order so that all can understand, participate, and be edified. Just as musical instruments must play in harmony and a trumpet must give a clear call, our gatherings should avoid confusion and instead communicate the message of Jesus in a way that is accessible to everyone—especially those who are new or unfamiliar with the faith. Strive for gatherings where the Spirit moves freely, but always in a way that brings peace and understanding. [23:01]
1 Corinthians 14:7-9, 33, 39-40 (ESV)
"If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air... For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints... So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But all things should be done decently and in order."
Reflection:
Is there an area in your life or ministry where you need to bring more clarity or order so that others can better experience the love and truth of Jesus?
Day 3: Discernment and Testing of Spiritual Experiences
God calls us to be discerning and to test all spiritual experiences, holding fast to what is good and true. Not every spiritual manifestation is from God, and we are encouraged to examine everything carefully, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of Scripture. Discernment is a gift that protects the church from confusion and error, ensuring that what happens in our gatherings truly honors Christ and builds up His people. [28:32]
1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 (ESV)
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil."
Reflection:
Think of a recent spiritual experience or message you’ve encountered—how can you prayerfully test it today, seeking the Spirit’s discernment and the truth of Scripture?
Day 4: Openness to the Gifts and Leading of the Holy Spirit
God invites us to be open and receptive to the gifts He wants to give us, seeking Him with a posture of humility and willingness. When we ask God for His gifts and guidance, He delights to pour out His Spirit in ways that are life-giving and purposeful. Whether in a family, small group, or personal prayer, being open to the Spirit’s leading allows us to experience His power and joy in new and unexpected ways. [15:05]
Luke 11:13 (ESV)
"If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
Reflection:
Will you take time today to ask God with an open heart, “Lord, what gifts do you want to give me for the good of others?” What might it look like to say yes to His leading?
Day 5: Remembering the Grace of Jesus in Communion
The Lord’s Supper is a sacred reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice, grace, and resurrection, calling us to focus on what He has done rather than our own failures. As we take communion, we proclaim the Lord’s death and resurrection, giving thanks for the new covenant and the forgiveness we have in Him. Let this act draw your heart to gratitude and renewed allegiance to Jesus, both individually and as part of His church. [29:54]
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (ESV)
"For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes."
Reflection:
As you remember Jesus’ sacrifice today, what is one area of your life where you need to shift your focus from your own shortcomings to His grace and finished work?
Quotes
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