Why Did Apostle Paul Consider Prophesying More Important than Speaking in Tongues in 1 Corinthians 14?

Introduction:

One of the most intriguing aspects of the New Testament is the debate surrounding the use of spiritual gifts, particularly as articulated by Apostle Paul. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul makes a significant statement regarding the relative importance of prophesying compared to speaking in tongues (1 Corinthians 14:3-5). This article delves into the reasons behind Paul's perspective and the broader context of the Corinthian church situation.

A `Cloudy` Signal

Before we probe deeper, it is crucial to emphasize that speaking in tongues is not for the unbelievers but a personal medium of communication between the individual and God. Paul was not boasting about his ability to speak in tongues. Instead, he was simply stating that his prophesying was more impactful because it allowed him to hear from God and share His messages with others.

The Context and Practicality of Spiritual Gifts

Paul's perspective on spiritual gifts was pragmatic. His primary concern was the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 14:3-5). He believed that prophesying was more beneficial for the congregation because it encouraged and built them up, whereas speaking in tongues could be less effective if no one understood the message.

Paul explains, “For he who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? (1 Corinthians 14:4-5).

Interpretation and Mutual Edification

However, Paul also acknowledges that the importance of speaking in tongues can be on par with prophesying if the tongues are interpreted and the message can be understood by the congregation (1 Corinthians 14:5). The interpretation is crucial for mutual edification and community building.

Paul's Motivation and the Corinthian Church

There are plausible reasons why Paul might have been speaking more in tongues in the Corinthian church:

Prophesying by Tongues with Interpretation: It is possible that Paul was prophesying by speaking in tongues and then interpreting the message for the congregation. Praying in the Spirit a Lot: Paul might have been spending a lot of time praying in tongues, which is another form of communicating with the Holy Spirit.

Paul suspected the latter to be the case, as he mentions the Corinthian church's competitive and jealous nature (1 Corinthians 3:3-4). He wanted to avert any accusations that might arise from speaking more in tongues merely to assert his spiritual status.

Edification vs. Egocentricity

Paul's stance on the importance of prophesying over speaking in tongues reflects his emphasis on edification rather than personal glory. When he writes, "I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than he who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified" (1 Corinthians 14:5), he is highlighting that the purpose of spiritual gifts is to build up the community, not to demonstrate individual spiritual superiority.

Love and Spiritual Gifts

The juxtaposition of chapter 12 and 14, which discuss spiritual languages, with the 'love' chapter chapter 13 underscores the essential role of love in the church (1 Corinthians 13:1-13). Spiritual languages and love are interconnected, and the ultimate goal of these gifts is to create unity and love among believers.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Apostle Paul's emphasis on prophesying over speaking in tongues in 1 Corinthians 14 reflects his focus on the practical edification of the church. While he acknowledges that speaking in tongues can be beneficial, it must be accompanied by interpretation for mutual edification. The competition and jealousy in the Corinthian church motivated Paul to demonstrate that the true purpose of spiritual gifts is to build up and love one another.