1 Corinthians 14:37
If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is the Lord's command.
If anyone considers himself
This phrase challenges the self-perception of individuals within the Corinthian church. The Greek word for "considers" is "dokei," which implies a self-assessment or personal judgment. In the context of the early church, where spiritual gifts were highly esteemed, Paul is urging believers to critically evaluate their own claims to spiritual authority. This self-reflection is crucial in maintaining humility and ensuring that one's actions align with God's will rather than personal ambition.

a prophet or spiritual person
The term "prophet" refers to someone who claims to speak on behalf of God, while "spiritual person" encompasses those who believe they possess spiritual insight or gifts. In the Greek, "prophet" is "prophētēs," and "spiritual" is "pneumatikos." The early church valued prophetic gifts, but Paul emphasizes that true spiritual authority is not self-proclaimed but recognized through alignment with divine truth. This distinction is vital in discerning genuine spiritual leadership from false claims.

let him acknowledge
The Greek word "epiginōskō" is used here, meaning to recognize or fully understand. Paul is calling for a conscious and deliberate acknowledgment of the divine origin of his teachings. This acknowledgment is not merely intellectual assent but a heartfelt acceptance that leads to obedience. It underscores the importance of recognizing apostolic authority as divinely instituted, which is foundational for maintaining doctrinal purity and unity within the church.

that what I am writing to you
Paul's writings are not mere personal opinions but carry the weight of apostolic authority. The phrase "what I am writing" highlights the written nature of his instructions, which were intended to be preserved and followed by the church. This underscores the significance of Scripture as a permanent and authoritative guide for Christian living, reflecting the early church's reliance on apostolic teaching as foundational to their faith and practice.

is the Lord’s command
The phrase "the Lord’s command" asserts that Paul's instructions are not optional suggestions but divine mandates. The Greek word "entolē" for "command" indicates an authoritative directive from God. This elevates Paul's teachings to the level of divine law, requiring obedience from all believers. It emphasizes the belief that Scripture is God-breathed and authoritative, serving as the ultimate standard for faith and conduct in the life of the church.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with authority as an apostle of Christ.

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and spiritually gifted congregation facing issues of disorder and misunderstanding regarding spiritual gifts.

3. Prophets and Spiritual Persons
Individuals within the Corinthian church who claimed spiritual insight or authority.

4. The Lord’s Command
Refers to the divine authority behind Paul’s instructions, emphasizing that his teachings are not merely human opinions but commands from God.

5. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its cultural diversity and moral challenges, which influenced the church's dynamics.
Teaching Points
Recognizing Divine Authority
Believers are called to discern and acknowledge the divine authority in apostolic teachings, understanding that they are not optional but commands from the Lord.

Humility in Spiritual Gifts
Those who consider themselves spiritually gifted must exercise humility, recognizing that their gifts are to be used in accordance with God’s commands and for the edification of the church.

Order in Worship
The context of 1 Corinthians 14 emphasizes the need for order in worship, ensuring that spiritual gifts are exercised in a way that builds up the body of Christ.

Testing Spiritual Claims
Believers should test claims of spiritual insight or prophecy against the teachings of Scripture, ensuring alignment with God’s revealed word.

Submission to Scripture
The authority of Scripture should guide all aspects of church life and personal conduct, requiring submission and obedience from all believers.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Paul’s assertion of divine authority in 1 Corinthians 14:37 challenge our understanding of spiritual gifts and their use in the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship services reflect the order and edification that Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 14?

3. How can we discern whether a teaching or prophecy is truly from the Lord, as Paul instructs in this passage?

4. What role does humility play in the exercise of spiritual gifts, and how can we cultivate this attitude in our church communities?

5. How can we apply the principle of submission to Scripture in our daily lives, ensuring that our actions align with God’s commands?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Corinthians 12-14
These chapters provide a broader context for understanding spiritual gifts and their proper use within the church, emphasizing love and order.

Galatians 1:11-12
Paul asserts that his gospel message is not of human origin but received through revelation from Jesus Christ, paralleling his claim of divine authority in 1 Corinthians 14:37.

1 Thessalonians 2:13
Paul commends the Thessalonians for accepting his message as the word of God, not merely human words, reinforcing the divine authority of apostolic teaching.

2 Peter 3:15-16
Peter acknowledges Paul’s writings as Scripture, affirming their divine inspiration and authority.
Any Person Who Understands Christianity May Teach ItR. Robinson.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Christian WorshipJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Concerning EdifyingDean Claggett.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Decency and Order in the ChurchE. Hurndall 1 Corinthians 14:26-33, 40
Decency and Order in the ChurchE. Hurndall, M. A.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Disorder in the ChurchJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Edification the Aim of Christian SpeechC. H. Spurgeon.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Fellowship in Order to EdificationA. T. Pierson, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Five Chords to the HarpPaxton Hood.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
In the Social Gatherings of God's PeopleJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Self-Control in Divine WorshipJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
The Christian Church in AssemblyD. Thomas, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
The Efficient Conduct of Public WorshipJ. Lyth, . D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
The Excellency and Usefulness of the Common PrayerBp. Beveridge.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
The Importance of Order in the ChurchJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:26-40
Concluding ViewsC. Lipscomb 1 Corinthians 14:33-40
Abandonment to IgnoranceProf. J. R. Thomson.1 Corinthians 14:36-38
How the Gospel Came to BritainR. W. Hamilton, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:36-38
Resistance to the Divine Order in the ChurchJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:36-38
St. Paul's AuthorityJ. W. Burn.1 Corinthians 14:36-38
The Reason for MissionsJ. Lyth, D. D.1 Corinthians 14:36-38
People
Corinthians, Paul
Places
Corinth
Topics
Acknowledge, Anybody, Anyone, Command, Commandment, Commandments, Commands, Deems, Gifted, Gifts, Lord's, Note, Prophet, Recognise, Recognize, Seems, Spirit, Spiritual, Spiritually, Thinketh, Thinks, Writing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Corinthians 14:37

     5191   thought
     7968   spiritual gifts, nature of
     8241   ethics, basis of
     8405   commands, in NT

1 Corinthians 14:33-37

     5217   authority, in church

Library
1 Corinthians xiv, 20
Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit, in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. It would be going a great deal too far to say, that they who fulfilled the latter part of this command, were sure also to fulfil the former; that they who were men in understanding, were, therefore, likely to be children in malice. But the converse holds good, with remarkable certainty, that they who are children in understanding, are proportionally apt to be men in malice: that is, in proportion
Thomas Arnold—The Christian Life

Gunsaulus -- the Bible Vs. Infidelity
Frank Wakely Gunsaulus was born at Chesterville, Ohio, in 1856. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1875. For some years he was pastor of Plymouth Church, Chicago, and since 1899 pastor of Central Church, Chicago. He is also president of the Armour Institute of Technology. He is a fascinating speaker, having a clear, resonant voice, and a dignified presence. His mind is a storehouse of the best literature, and his English style is noteworthy for its purity and richness. He is the author
Various—The World's Great Sermons, Volume 10

Here is the Sum of My Examination Before Justice Keelin, Justice Chester, Justice Blundale, Justice Beecher, Justice Snagg, Etc.
After I had lain in prison above seven weeks, the quarter-sessions were to be kept in Bedford, for the county thereof, unto which I was to be brought; and when my jailor had set me before those justices, there was a bill of indictment preferred against me. The extent thereof was as followeth: That John Bunyan, of the town of Bedford, labourer, being a person of such and such conditions, he hath (since such a time) devilishly and perniciously abstained from coming to church to hear Divine service,
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners

The Substance of Some Discourse had Between the Clerk of the Peace and Myself; when He came to Admonish Me, According to the Tenor of that Law, by which I was in Prison.
When I had lain in prison other twelve weeks, and now not knowing what they intended to do with me, upon the third of April 1661, comes Mr Cobb unto me (as he told me), being sent by the justices to admonish me; and demand of me submittance to the church of England, etc. The extent of our discourse was as followeth. Cobb. When he was come into the house he sent for me out of my chamber; who, when I was come unto him, he said, Neighbour Bunyan, how do you do? Bun. I thank you, Sir, said I, very
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners

Things to be Meditated on as Thou Goest to the Church.
1. That thou art going to the court of the Lord, and to speak with the great God by prayer; and to hear his majesty speak unto thee by his word; and to receive his blessing on thy soul, and thy honest labour, in the six days past. 2. Say with thyself by the way--"As the hart brayeth for the rivers of water, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, even for the living God: When shall I come and appear before the presence of God? For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

The Miracle of Tongues.
"If any man speak in an (unknown) tongue, . . . let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him speak to himself, and to God."-- 1 Cor. xiv. 27, 28. The third sign following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit consisted in extraordinary sounds that proceeded from the lips of the apostles--sounds foreign to the Aramaic tongue, never before heard from their lips. These sounds affected the multitude in different ways: some called them babblings of inebriated men; others heard in them the great
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Second Wall.
The second wall is even more tottering and weak: that they alone pretend to be considered masters of the Scriptures; although they learn nothing of them all their life, they assume authority, and juggle before us with impudent words, saying that the Pope cannot err in matters of faith, whether he be evil or good; albeit they cannot prove it by a single letter. That is why the canon law contains so many heretical and unchristian, nay, unnatural laws; but of these we need not speak now. For whereas
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

Luther's First Preface.
To the "Geystliche Gsangbuechlin, Erstlich zu Wittenberg, und volgend durch Peter schoeffern getruckt, im jar m. d. xxv. Autore Ioanne Walthero." That it is good, and pleasing to God, for us to sing spiritual songs is, I think, a truth whereof no Christian can be ignorant; since not only the example of the prophets and kings of the Old Testament (who praised God with singing and music, poesy and all kind of stringed instruments) but also the like practice of all Christendom from the beginning,
Leonard Woolsey Bacon—The Hymns of Martin Luther

Women are not Permitted to Speak at the Time of the Divine Liturgy...
Women are not permitted to speak at the time of the Divine Liturgy; but, according to the word of Paul the Apostle, "let them be silent. For it is not permitted to them to speak, but to be in subjection, as the law also saith. But if they wish to learn anything let them ask their own husbands at home." Notes. Ancient Epitome of Canon LXX. Women are not permitted to speak in church. "Let your women keep silence in the churches; for it is not permitted unto them to speak," is the passage referred
Philip Schaff—The Seven Ecumenical Councils

Eighteenth Day for Peace
WHAT TO PRAY.--For Peace "I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplication be made for kings and all that are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour."--1 TIM. ii"He maketh wars to cease to the end of the earth."--PS. xlvi. 9. What a terrible sight!--the military armaments in which the nations find their pride. What a terrible thought!--the evil passions that may at any moment bring
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

Rules to be Observed in Singing of Psalms.
1. Beware of singing divine psalms for an ordinary recreation, as do men of impure spirits, who sing holy psalms intermingled with profane ballads: They are God's word: take them not in thy mouth in vain. 2. Remember to sing David's psalms with David's spirit (Matt. xxii. 43.) 3. Practise St. Paul's rule--"I will sing with the spirit, but I will sing with the understanding also." (1 Cor. xiv. 15.) 4. As you sing uncover your heads (1 Cor. xi. 4), and behave yourselves in comely reverence as in the
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Of Deeper Matters, and God's Hidden Judgments which are not to be Inquired Into
"My Son, beware thou dispute not of high matters and of the hidden judgments of God; why this man is thus left, and that man is taken into so great favour; why also this man is so greatly afflicted, and that so highly exalted. These things pass all man's power of judging, neither may any reasoning or disputation have power to search out the divine judgments. When therefore the enemy suggesteth these things to thee, or when any curious people ask such questions, answer with that word of the Prophet,
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

From his Entrance on the Ministry in 1815, to his Commission to Reside in Germany in 1820
1815.--After the long season of depression through which John Yeardley passed, as described in the last chapter, the new year of 1815 dawned with brightness upon his mind. He now at length saw his spiritual bonds loosed; and the extracts which follow describe his first offerings in the ministry in a simple and affecting manner. 1 mo. 5.--The subject of the prophet's going down to the potter's house opened so clearly on my mind in meeting this morning that I thought I could almost have publicly
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel

The Preacher as a Christian.
In the last lecture I spoke of St. Paul as a Man, showing how remarkable were his endowments and acquirements, and how these told in his apostolic career. But it was not through these that he was what he was. Great as were the gifts bestowed on him by nature and cultivated by education, they were utterly inadequate to produce a character and a career like his. It was what Christianity added to these that made him St. Paul. It is right enough that we should now recognise the importance of his natural
James Stalker—The Preacher and His Models

Fifteenth Day. The Holy Spirit.
But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believed on Him were to receive: for the Holy Spirit was not yet: because Jesus was not yet glorified.'--John vii. 39. 'The Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things.'--John xiv. 26. 'God chose you to salvation in sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth.'--2 Thess. ii. 13. (See 1 Pet. i. 2.) It has sometimes been said, that while the Holiness of God stands out more prominently
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ

Ten Reasons Demonstrating the Commandment of the Sabbath to be Moral.
1. Because all the reasons of this commandment are moral and perpetual; and God has bound us to the obedience of this commandment with more forcible reasons than to any of the rest--First, because he foresaw that irreligious men would either more carelessly neglect, or more boldly break this commandment than any other; secondly, because that in the practice of this commandment the keeping of all the other consists; which makes God so often complain that all his worship is neglected or overthrown,
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Spiritual Gifts.
"But desire earnestly the greater gifts. And a still more excellent way show I unto you." --1 Cor. xii. 31 (R.V.). The charismata or spiritual gifts are the divinely ordained means and powers whereby the King enables His Church to perform its task on the earth. The Church has a calling in the world. It is being violently attacked not only by the powers of this world, but much more by the invisible powers of Satan. No rest is allowed. Denying that Christ has conquered, Satan believes that the time
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Meditations to Stir us up to Morning Prayer.
1. If, when thou art about to pray, Satan shall suggest that thy prayers are too long, and that therefore it were better either to omit prayers, or else to cut them shorter, meditate that prayer is thy spiritual sacrifice, wherewith God is well pleased (Heb. xiii. 15, 16;) and therefore it is so displeasing to the devil, and so irksome to the flesh. Bend therefore thy affections (will they, nill they) to so holy an exercise; assuring thyself, that it doth by so much the more please God, by how much
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

That the Unskilful Venture not to Approach an Office of Authority.
No one presumes to teach an art till he has first, with intent meditation, learnt it. What rashness is it, then, for the unskilful to assume pastoral authority, since the government of souls is the art of arts! For who can be ignorant that the sores of the thoughts of men are more occult than the sores of the bowels? And yet how often do men who have no knowledge whatever of spiritual precepts fearlessly profess themselves physicians of the heart, though those who are ignorant of the effect of
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

The Holy Spirit Guiding the Believer into a Life as a Son.
The Apostle Paul writes in Rom. viii. 14, R. V., "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God." In this passage we see the Holy Spirit taking the conduct of the believer's life. A true Christian life is a personally conducted life, conducted at every turn by a Divine Person. It is the believer's privilege to be absolutely set free from all care and worry and anxiety as to the decisions which we must make at any turn of life. The Holy Spirit undertakes all that responsibility
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit

Peace
Grace unto you and peace be multiplied. I Pet 1:1. Having spoken of the first fruit of sanctification, assurance, I proceed to the second, viz., Peace, Peace be multiplied:' What are the several species or kinds of Peace? Peace, in Scripture, is compared to a river which parts itself into two silver streams. Isa 66:12. I. There is an external peace, and that is, (1.) (Economical, or peace in a family. (2.) Political, or peace in the state. Peace is the nurse of plenty. He maketh peace in thy borders,
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

The Necessity of Regeneration, Argued from the Immutable Constitution of God.
John III. 3. John III. 3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. WHILE the ministers of Christ are discoursing of such a subject, as I have before me in the course of these Lectures, and particularly in this branch of them which I am now entering upon, we may surely, with the utmost reason, address our hearers in those words of Moses to Israel, in the conclusion of his dying discourse: Set your hearts unto all
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

The Christian Prayer
Scripture references: Matthew 6:5-15; Luke 11:1-13; John 17; Matthew 26:41; Mark 11:24,25; Luke 6:12,28; 9:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:17,25; 1 Corinthians 14:13,15; Psalm 19:14; 50:15, Matthew 7:7; 1 Timothy 2:1; Ephesians 3:20,21; John 16:23; 14:14; James 5:16. THE PROVINCE OF PRAYER Definition.--Prayer is the communion of man with God. It is not first of all the means of getting something from God, but the realization of Him in the soul. "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew
Henry T. Sell—Studies in the Life of the Christian

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