1 Corinthians 14:1-25

This exploration of 1 Corinthians 14 challenges us to reconsider what it truly means to build up the church. While we might think of church building in terms of programs, facilities, or attendance numbers, the scripture points us to something far more profound: the ministry of speaking God's truth to one another in love. The passage contrasts spiritual gifts that primarily benefit ourselves with those that strengthen the entire body of believers. We're called to earnestly desire the gift of prophecy—not in the sense of writing new scripture or claiming infallible authority, but in the beautiful work of applying God's already-revealed truth to specific situations, people, and moments. This means being saturated in scripture, sensitive to the Spirit's promptings, and willing to speak timely words of encouragement, correction, and consolation. The key insight is that every believer is called to this ministry. We're not meant to be passive consumers waiting for a Sunday sermon, but active participants who text scripture to struggling friends, share gospel truth with coworkers, and bring God's word to bear in our small groups and families. When we gather, the goal isn't just personal blessing but mutual upbuilding—each part working properly so the whole body grows in love. This requires humility, careful testing of what we hear and say, and a commitment to let love guide all our spiritual expressions.