Study Desk

So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.

To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the benefit of all.

For one person is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, and another the message of knowledge according to the same Spirit,

For just as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body—though many—are one body, so too is Christ.

For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Whether Jews or Greeks or slaves or free, we were all made to drink of the one Spirit.

For in fact the body is not a single member, but many.

so that there may be no division in the body, but the members may have mutual concern for one another.

But you should be eager for the greater gifts. And now I will show you a way that is beyond comparison.

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part,

For now we see in a mirror indirectly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known.

Pursue love and be eager for the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.

For the one speaking in a tongue does not speak to people but to God, for no one understands; he is speaking mysteries by the Spirit.

But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouragement, and consolation.

It is similar for lifeless things that make a sound, like a flute or harp. Unless they make a distinction in the notes, how can what is played on the flute or harp be understood?

If, for example, the trumpet makes an unclear sound, who will get ready for battle?

It is the same for you. If you do not speak clearly with your tongue, how will anyone know what is being said? For you will be speaking into the air.

It is the same with you. Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, seek to abound in order to strengthen the church.

For you are certainly giving thanks well, but the other person is not strengthened.

So then, tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.

What should you do then, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each one has a song, has a lesson, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all these things be done for the strengthening of the church.