Bible Discussion Thread

An interpretation of chapter, 1 Corinthians 14 (PT 5).

Verse 26-33. An introduction is needed here.

The ancient church service consisted of 2 parts. Part 1 was when believers were kneeling down praying and singing to and praising God altogether. Part 2 was when they sat on their seats and were hearing the pastor preaching from the Scriptures.

Paul advices christians in Corinth to function their congregation in order. The most important thing is everything in the function of the church should be done for the edification of the congregation. When believers speak in tongues they should do it one after the other. But if there isn't no interpretation then they should keep silent and talk silently in tongues to them and God.

Prophets similarly should prophesy one after the other. It is possible that two of them could have a message from God at the same time. But they should not speak simoultaneously but only after the previous prophet stopped prophesying.

Verse 29, "Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge." Judge what? Judge whether the prophesy is true or not. How is that done? Mainly if the prophesy agrees with the written Word of God. Also other prophets who have the experience of prophesying, they usually can undersand if a prophesy is a real one or not.

Verse 32, "And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.".The Spirit of God doesn't force prophets to speak, they can allow or not allow their mouth to say what God puts in their mouth.

All the above take place in the first part of the church service, during the time of praying. Once the pastor is preaching, only him should talk from thereon.

Verse 33, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.". Very clear meaning.

Verses 34-40. Women can not be pastors but can serve the congregation as prophets (see Acts 21:8-9)