Daily Devotions – What is a Church? Pt. 13

Daily Devotions – What is a Church? Pt. 13

 

Photo by Jack Sharp on Unsplash

 

Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:

 

1 Corinthians 14:1-5 (NIV)
Intelligibility in Worship
14 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. 2 For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. 3 But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. 4 Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.

 

We are in our third and final week of devotions that have focused on our life as a church and being members of the church. In this passage, Paul tells the Corinthians to pursue the things that will edify the church, and strengthen, encourage, and comfort one another. In other words, put others ahead of yourself. The truth is this is impossible! It is why we need a savior. Without Jesus, we might get a few things right here and there, but will always return to looking out for number one! Pray that Jesus would fill you and Shepherd of the Hills with his Spirit that you might be filled with a heart and spiritual gifts that bless others.