Tongues : Have a Take – 1 Cor. 14.1-12

Hello.

I like listening to Jim Rome, sports talk show host extraordinaire, who has a devoted fan base, keen insights on sports in general, and a very admirable work ethic.  One of the things that amuses me about ‘Romey’ is his jargon; for instance, the main part of the show is Rome’s (or his clone’s) ‘takes’ on sports issues and even some news issues. 

>>Christian: you should have a take on what is at play here in 1 Corinthians 14.  That said, it isn’t the easiest material to wade through, but it is my desire to help us understand Paul’s important teaching.  I will break it down over three days, but listen, it really does take your thinking about it to come up with your take—what you believe God is saying about the place of tongues and prophecy in today’s church.

1 Corinthians 14.1-12

14 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.   For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit.  But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort.   He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.   I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.

  Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?   Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?   Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?   So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.  Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.   If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me.   So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church.

Here we go…first, let’s remember that this is the third chapter in which Paul has addressed spiritual gifts—the gifts given to each believer indwelled by the Holy Spirit.  Chapter 12 gave us a list of the gifts and some description of them and their purpose within the body of Christ.  Chapter 13 admonished us that without love, the gifts mean nothing.  And now, chapter 14 will focus primarily on tongue-speaking and prophecy.

You will recall with me that the Corinthian worship services were out of control—chaos ensued.  It is that which drove Paul to address these matters in the letter he wrote to them.  However, all three chapters are applicable to Christians today; I believe it is vitally important that we ‘get’ and have a ‘take’ on them.

Paul places a higher premium on prophecy because it builds up the listeners.  Prophecy: A supernaturally inspired utterance from God, always consistent with the Word of God.  (We will look at prophecy a little more tomorrow) On the other hand, Paul indicates that speaking in tongues is the individual believer’s worship of God, and does not build up the body unless there is an interpretation within the worship service.  Many call speaking in tongues privately using a ‘prayer language’, as a way of worshipping God that is not limited by the intellect.

To simplify the different positions held by Christians today, there seem to be two schools of thought, which can then be further qualified.  I included web addresses for your consideration.

1.  Tongues are not for today

         -definition of tongues used by charismatics is non-biblical

             http://www.gty.org/Resources/Sermons/1871_The-Trut

-since we have the printed Word, we no longer have additional    

   revelation. http://www.graceonlinelibrary.org/articles/full.asp?id=40%7C%7C411

    This is also considered the ‘cessationist’ view.

2.  All gifts are for today

                 -must be exercised properly/orderly

                >no messages in tongues in large gathering, such as church service

                >tongues in the form of prayer languages are for individual’s worship

                     of God  -  (Calvary Chapel) See www.blueletterbible.org for Chuck Smith’s

                               commentary on 1 Corinthians 14.

         -Pentecostal position believes that the evidence of being filled with

                   the Spirit is speaking in tongues; tongues are for everyone.

Whew!  Well, that’s a start in understanding why some believe, and some don’t; some practice, and some don’t.  But again, whether we agree or disagree on this gift in particular, let us remember, that in all thingsà LOVE.

Christine