Tim Maas Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

Paul made the comment cited in the question in the context of the granting of gifts by the Holy Spirit, with particular reference to the gift of speaking in tongues.

With regard to that specific gift, Paul's point was that, even if it was granted to someone, it was effectively or practically useless unless there was also someone present who had the gift of interpreting what was being said, with the goal of allowing the whole congregation to be spiritually enlightened and made stronger in their faith.

The more general application of that with regard to the subject of the question is for Christians to examine their lives to determine what talents or spiritual gifts may have been granted to them by God, and to use those gifts (whatever they may be) to the greatest possible degree to aid in the accomplishment of congregational goals or for the individual benefit of other Chrstians, rather than keeping those gifts to themselves, or even giving themselves feelings of superiority over others because of having those gifts.

June 01 2022 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Donna Williams

In my opinion, I believe that we are being encouraged to use the gifts of the Spirit to edify the members of the body of Christ. Specifically, in this passage of Scripture, the emphasis is on the differences between the gift of prophecy, and the gift of tongues.

I believe that our motives should be love and not for selfish reasons. Always with the intent to edify, and not to bring attention to ourselves, but for the glory of God the Father!

We always want to see the body of Christ benefit from the gifts of the Spirit! I believe we excel, when we are motivated by love, and seek for opportunities to build, strengthen and encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ!

June 01 2022 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report