1Cor 14:1-3 | MHM | STEP | On Spiritual Gifts In this chapter, Paul continues teaching about spiritual gifts. He urges the Corinthians to value love above all but also explains which gifts are most useful for the church. Paul wants them to seek gifts that help everyone, not just gifts that make the individual feel important. He especially encourages the gift of prophecy, which brings understanding and encouragement to the whole church. v. 1 : Paul says, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that you may prophesy” (1 Corinthians 14:1 ). He tells them to make love their greatest goal, but they can also desire spiritual gifts. However, the gift of prophecy—explaining God’s Word—is more valuable than speaking in unknown languages, because it helps others grow in faith.

‏ 1 Corinthians 14:1-3

On Spiritual Gifts

In this chapter, Paul continues teaching about spiritual gifts. He urges the Corinthians to value love above all but also explains which gifts are most useful for the church. Paul wants them to seek gifts that help everyone, not just gifts that make the individual feel important. He especially encourages the gift of prophecy, which brings understanding and encouragement to the whole church.

v. 1: Paul says, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that you may prophesy”(1 Corinthians 14:1 ^a). He tells them to make love their greatest goal, but they can also desire spiritual gifts. However, the gift of prophecy—explaining God’s Word—is more valuable than speaking in unknown languages, because it helps others grow in faith.

v. 2: He explains, “For he that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not to men, but to God; for no man understands him; however in the spirit he speaks mysteries”(1 Corinthians 14:2 ^b). Speaking in tongues may be impressive, but if nobody understands, it does not help others. Only God understands, so it does not serve the church’s needs.

v. 3: Paul says, “But he that prophesies speaks unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort”(1 Corinthians 14:3 ^c). The person who shares God’s message in a way people understand encourages, strengthens, and comforts others. This is the real purpose of spiritual gifts—to build up the church.