1 Corinthians 14 and Edification
WORSHIP ARTICLE | T. Sean Sullivan | Paragould, Arkansas
Introduction:
Being built up in the knowledge of God’s will was different way back when Paul penned the first epistle to the Corinthians. In the early church, before the completion of God’s inspired revelation, the hearts of the brethren were built up by the information given through gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:1-40).
The first verse of 1 Corinthians 14 says, “Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy”. Many want to define the ability to “prophesy” as foretelling the future, but by true definition it is proclaiming God’s word. So, according to chapter 14, the ability to prophesy was the best gift—this was the ability to edify the brethren by the speaking of God’s word. The theme of chapter 14 is often seen as “desiring spiritual gifts”, however, let me offer you an alternative theme for this context, “Desire to edify”. Let’s consider these thoughts to better understand the need and the necessities of edification.
The Want of Edification:
Faithful daily courage requires edification (1 Thessalonians 5:4-11). The last few decades have witnessed less attendance at scheduled assemblies (Hebrews 10:24-25), and far less Bible reading and studying in our homes (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15). It is quite obvious that too many Christians believe they are strong and sure when they are weak and faltering (Revelation 2:4-5). The increasing distance between the average Christian and God leaves us vulnerable and exposed to the temptations of worldly ways (1 John 2:15-17). As with all that this world boasts, we are left in a place of “want”. What we are needing is a refreshing and renewing of our faithful courage (James 4:8).
This world has always been a perilous place for the faithful to God; the philosophies of men and the resistance of the faithless is difficult to avoid. Consider Psalm 1:1-6, written nearly 3000 years ago and warns of the danger of this world’s advice, “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful…” (Psalm 1:1). With what seems like an ever-rising tide of difficulty today, the Christian’s want for edification is also on the rise. We must gain a proper understanding of God’s word—to have the strength to stay the course (Ephesians 6:10-18). We must want the strength of endurance so we can keep going no matter what (1 Peter 1:6-9). We must want the strength to do all that is necessary to be welcomed home (Matthew 25:21, 23).
Our role in this is to seek and supply the necessary edification, so we might stay faithful all the way through.
The Words of Edification
The Apostle Paul instructed the brethren in Corinth to desire the ability to communicate God’s word, for the edification of all (1 Corinthians 14:1). More than any other gift, the sharing of God’s word is necessary—spiritual well-being is more important than physical well-being. Today, when we no longer have any gifts of the Holy Spirit, we still have the word of God to build up one another. The knowledge of God’s will, clearly explained, is a requirement of edification—with words, only those that are understood lead to edification (1 Corinthians 14:9-15).
There is one source provided by God to supply the words necessary for edification (James 1:17-22). The establishment of faith is from the word (Romans 10:17). The understanding of the gospel plan is from the word (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:44-47; Acts 2:38-42). Through the proper use of the word, we are instructed (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We can be “approved of God” (2 Timothy 2:15). We have all the directions for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). We secure the knowledge of eternal life (1 John 5:13).
It is the word of God that must be shared clearly and understandably, for souls to be edified (2 Timothy 4:1-2a, “Preach the word!”).
The Willingness of Edification
The goal of preaching and teaching the word of God should always be to provide a proper understanding of God’s will. Whichever part of preaching we must put to work—convincing, rebuking, or exhorting (2 Timothy 4:2b)—we must seek to produce understanding among those who hear us (1 Timothy 4:16).
Some things are required of a preacher or teacher who would edify their brethren. Humility: It is not about impressive degrees, demonstrations of high intelligence, or the speaker at all, it is about God’s word—to God be the glory (John 12:21 “Sir, we wish to see Jesus”). It is the word of God that must be shared clearly and understandably. Having a proper scriptural lesson planned and sharing it with meaning and purpose (Romans 1:16)—do not wander as if unprepared, preach the word (1 Corinthians 15:1-11). Love: For God, His word, and the souls of man (2 Corinthians 12:15).
All Christians require edification to maintain their diligent walk through this life (Hebrews 10:35-39). We need teachers who are willing to properly edify us with every lesson, study, and sermon presented—so that we might be saved (1 Timothy 4:13, 15-16).
Conclusion:
In the past, before the word of God was complete and revealed, there were gifts of the Holy Spirit that enabled instruction in and proof of the will of God (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). Paul exhorted saying, “Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy”. The ability to “speak God’s word” was the best gift—with it the brethren would be edified.
When we gather for worship, we need proper edification—from those who are willing to edify our faith. Humble, clear, and loving teachers, who want what is best for us. ~tss
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July 2024 | GROW magazine
