A Word Given for Immediate Benefit1 Corinthians 14:4b
...but he who prophesies edifies the church.
Thoughts for Today:In our previous passage, Paul told us that when we speak in tongues it is for our own edification. Today we learn prophesy is for the edification of the church. Although praying in the Spirit builds up our own faith, it has no impact on anyone else unless there is someone there to interpret. However, prophecy is for the purpose of strengthening, encouraging, and comforting others (1 Corinthians 14:3).
The gift of prophesy in the New Testament is not as much a word directed toward a future event as it is a word of truth given by God for the immediate benefit of His people. And when God's truth is spoken, heard, and acted upon -- faith is always built. The result is a strengthening of our relationship and fellowship with Jesus; encouragement for us to turn from the flesh to live and walk after the Spirit; and comfort as we realize that nothing is outside of God's sight and everything is in His loving hands.
Questions to Ponder:When properly understood, prophecy can have a powerful and immediate impact upon us. But remember, it is always Scripture-based, and the Lord speaks to us through His Word. (2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.) Has the Lord been using prophesy to strengthen, encourage or comfort you in a time of need? Have you been paying attention?
...but he who prophesies edifies the church.
Thoughts for Today:In our previous passage, Paul told us that when we speak in tongues it is for our own edification. Today we learn prophesy is for the edification of the church. Although praying in the Spirit builds up our own faith, it has no impact on anyone else unless there is someone there to interpret. However, prophecy is for the purpose of strengthening, encouraging, and comforting others (1 Corinthians 14:3).
The gift of prophesy in the New Testament is not as much a word directed toward a future event as it is a word of truth given by God for the immediate benefit of His people. And when God's truth is spoken, heard, and acted upon -- faith is always built. The result is a strengthening of our relationship and fellowship with Jesus; encouragement for us to turn from the flesh to live and walk after the Spirit; and comfort as we realize that nothing is outside of God's sight and everything is in His loving hands.
Questions to Ponder:When properly understood, prophecy can have a powerful and immediate impact upon us. But remember, it is always Scripture-based, and the Lord speaks to us through His Word. (2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.) Has the Lord been using prophesy to strengthen, encourage or comfort you in a time of need? Have you been paying attention?
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