Pursue Love and Build Up the Church

14 Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. 2 For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3 On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. 4 The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. 5 Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.
1 Corinthians 14:1-5
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Pursue Love and Build Up the Church
Paul calls us to prioritize love as we serve one another with spiritual gifts. The goal of these gifts is not self-promotion but to build up the body of Christ. The gift of prophecy, proclaiming God’s Word, serves the church by offering clarity and edification. Tongues, on the other hand, may confuse unless interpreted. As we use our gifts, we look to the cross, where Christ’s love was most fully revealed. His sacrifice frees us from the bondage of selfish ambition, empowering us to serve humbly. The cross reminds us that every gift, every word, should reflect the love of Christ for His people. As we gather around His Word, we build one another up in faith, always pointing to the One who gave Himself for us all. Let our hearts be focused on Christ and His church, glorifying Him above all.