Friday, March 27, 2026

Scripture

“In church I would rather speak five words with my mind, in order to instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.” 1 Corinthians 14:19

Reflections

The spiritual gift of speaking in tongues is mysterious and controversial.  An individual speaks in a language he does not even understand.  In Acts 2, the apostles spoke the message of Jesus in languages they did not understand.  People heard about Jesus in their own languages.  3,000 people were baptized that day.

The Apostle Paul speaks about the gift of tongues within the context of the people of God gathered for worship.  As believers already know the message of Jesus, speaking in tongues serves little purpose.  Believers do not need a sign that will give them reason to believe.  They already believe.  Words of instruction within the context of God’s gathered people are more helpful to build up the body.  This is the function of prophecy, to instruct people.

This is why the Apostle Paul says he would rather speak five words with his mind than ten thousand words in a tongue.  His aim is not to try to impress other believers with his religiosity.  He wants to build up the body of Christ.

The same is true for us.  Our aim is to build up the body of Christ, making sensible use of whatever gifts God has given us.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for gifting me in unique ways.  Help me to be about the business of building up one another and being an effective witness to the gospel.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 1 Corinthians 14:13-25