The purpose of spiritual Gifts

  Read 1 Corinthians 14.

The Corinthians were spiritually immature and confused in their faith (v.20).  The Holy Spirit moved upon the Apostle Paul to address the issues that needed correcting and to answer their questions.  This is the third chapter in which the use and abuse of spiritual gifts are addressed.  In chapter 12, we read the basics concerning spiritual gifts.  In chapter 13, loving the people to whom one ministers their gift must be the priority.  Here, the purpose of the gifts is underscored.

Not only was the congregation in confusion but so were their church services.  They had become so enamored with "manifestations of the Spirit" (v.12) that, evidently, when they met together chaos broke out.  The reason God gave them such abilities was missed.  The purpose of all spiritual gifts is this: "To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." (12:7).  The root problem, as with most of the issues in this church, was self-centeredness.  The gifts were being high-jacked for some personal benefit, instead of using what God gave them to build up the faith of others.  This is repeated throughout chapter 14.

Therefore, communication in the church must be clear and understood by all.  Otherwise, there is no value others (v.16), only self-expression (v.4).  The proclamation of the word of God in the native language, or with the interpretation of a foreign language, not only edifies the believers but an unbeliever "is convicted...and will worship God..." (vv.24-25).

Speaking in tongues is first mentioned in Acts 2.  People from many nations were in Jerusalem for the annual feast days of Passover and Pentecost.  God empowered some followers of Jesus with the ability to speak in languages they had never studied.  Those present said, "...we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God" (Acts 2:11).   As the pilgrims returned home, the gospel quickly spread throughout the Roman Empire.  Corinth was a major seaport for trade in the empire.  People from many different nations were coming and going in the city.  Presenting the gospel of Jesus and teaching the word of God in that context had some challenges.  Supernatural help with languages was needed for the ministry to foreigners (v.22).  Note how many times they are referred to in this chapter. 

As stated in chapter 12, not everyone has the same gifts (12:29-30).  Verse 5 should not be misunderstood.  This desire that all should speak in tongues is the same statement Paul made concerning celibacy in 7:7.  No one thinks God wants everyone to be unmarried.  Further, as is explained, the only benefit of speaking in tongues is for all to understand what was said.  If no one is present who is equally gifted in interpreting, then the person is to remain silent (v.28).  If that qualification is met, then only two or three may speak, each taking a proper turn.  This along with the other elements of worship mentioned in verse 26, are to be conducted "decently and in order" (vv.32 and 40).

Keep in mind that in those days the church did not have a New Testament to confirm what was being taught.  All communications, then, were subject to the confirmation of the other preachers for veracity (v.32).  With the completion of the New Testament, all believers may check the truthfulness of a message for themselves to see if it is from God or not.  Also, remember the Holy Spirit does not draw attention to Himself.  Jesus said, "He will glorify me" (John 16:14).