Paul teaches that in worship the most important thing is the edification of the church.
The gift of tongues is not rejected, but an understandable word that strengthens the faith of the congregation has greater value for corporate worship.
The apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 14 to correct disorder in the gatherings of the Corinthian church. In the congregation, striking spiritual manifestations were highly valued, especially the gift of tongues, but Paul redirects attention to the main principle: everything must serve the spiritual benefit of the people. That is why he says that he wishes all would speak in tongues, but even more that they would prophesy, that is, communicate God’s word in a way that is understandable for encouragement, instruction, and comfort. For the Adventist understanding, this text is especially important because it shows that a true spiritual gift always agrees with order, love, and the edification of the church.
What does “better that you prophesy” mean
In this chapter, “to prophesy” does not necessarily mean only to predict the future. It often refers to the inspired, understandable proclamation of God’s truth that touches the hearts and minds of listeners. Paul directly explains the difference between these gifts:
“The one who speaks in a tongue edifies only himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.” 1 Cor 14:4
And then he adds:
“I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.” 1 Cor 14:5
Therefore, the superiority of prophecy is not that the gift of tongues is bad, but that understandable testimony builds up everyone. God gives gifts not for spiritual competition, but for service. When the word of God is clearly proclaimed, the church grows in truth, unity, and faith.
Why clarity in the church is so important
Paul does not deny the supernatural nature of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but he emphasizes that clarity is needed in public worship. If people hear what they do not understand, they cannot say “amen,” they cannot learn, and they cannot be strengthened. Therefore, the apostle raises the question of the practical benefit of such ministry.
“So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air.” 1 Cor. 14:9
And also:
“Yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.” 1 Cor 14:19
This is a very practical principle. God is not glorified by chaos or lack of understanding. True spirituality does not separate a person from the mind; on the contrary, the Holy Spirit works so that the truth may be heard, understood, and accepted. That is why Seventh-day Adventists emphasize biblical, thoughtful worship, where the center is the Word of God.
The gift of tongues and its biblical place
In the New Testament, the gift of tongues was a real gift of the Holy Spirit. On the Day of Pentecost, people heard God’s message in their own languages, and this had a missionary purpose—to communicate the gospel clearly to different nations.
“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4
However, in 1 Corinthians 14 Paul explains that if this gift is used in the assembly without interpretation, it does not fulfill the purpose of edification. Therefore, he permits such ministry only on the condition of interpretation.
“But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.” 1 Cor 14:28
This approach fully corresponds to the Adventist understanding of spiritual gifts: every gift is good if it is subject to biblical order and serves the common good. Ellen White also repeatedly emphasized that the true work of the Holy Spirit does not lead to disorder, self-exaltation, or emotional domination, but directs people to Christ, truth, and holiness of life.
The principle of order, love, and edification
Everything in this chapter is summed up by a simple criterion: does it build up the church? Paul writes:
“Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” 1 Cor 14:26
And at the end he adds:
“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 1 Cor. 14:33
And also:
“Let all things be done decently and in order!” 1 Cor 14:40
Therefore, 1 Corinthians 14:5 does not belittle one gift in favor of another, but establishes a biblical hierarchy of values in corporate worship. Higher is that which clearly communicates God’s will and benefits the whole congregation. It is love for brothers and sisters that requires our ministry to be not only sincere, but also understandable.
In summary, Paul teaches that in the church it is more important not to impress, but to build up. If a person has any spiritual gift, he or she should ask whether it helps others know God better. The practical application of this text is this: let us pray for the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but above all let us seek to speak, sing, teach, and serve in such a way that the church receives edification, peace, and spiritual growth in Christ.
