The "L" in Blessing

1 Corinthians 14 gives clear direction for the proper use of spiritual gifts within the church. The gifts are meant to be a blessing to the church. Whenever we gather together as an assembly, we have at least two main purposes: to glorify God, and to bless someone in the body. Chapter 12 of 1 Corinthians describes the nature of the church--a living body made up of diverse parts. Chapter 13 describes the essence of the church--sacrificial love. Chapter 14 describes the interaction of the church--mutual blessing.

The "L" in "Blessing" is language. In order to be a blessing to the gathered church, we must speak in a language that can be understood.

"But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking in tongues, what will I profit you unless I speak to you either by way revelation or of knowledge or of prophecy or of teaching?" (1 Cor. 14:6). Paul is not saying that tongues are bad...he has just stated through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that, "I wish that you all spoke in tongues" (v5). What he is saying is that the gift of tongues is a lesser gift because is does not easily build up the church. It is not easily understood! It would be better to speak one of the other speech gifts so that you will be understood and that the church would be edified.

Three illustrations follow:

1. A song will not be recognized if a musical instrument is played skillfully (v7).
2. Battle commands will not be underestood if a bugle is not played skillfully (v8).
3. Human languages will not be understood if we are not trained to interpret them (v10-11).

All three of these illustrations support the point that sound is not necessarily helpful if it is not understood by the hearer. The application is obvious! Are you being understood? Are you speaking in a way that communicates clearly?

"So also you, since you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek to abound for the edification of the church" (1 Cor. 14:12). There is nothing wrong with being zealous for spiritual gifts, in fact it is commanded in verse one, "Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts . . . " What we need to do is desire and seek to add to our lives the gifts that build up the body. Look for ways to bless somebody! Speak in a language that can be understood!