12. Gifts of the Spirit (2): Tongues 1 Corinthians 14:1-25 p. 1061
“Living to God” Becoming “Slaves to righteousness” (Rom 6:18) Through the Holy Spirit. In the community of God’s people. The Spirit is at work in us: For building each other up Gifting us for the work of the Kingdom Today – we start covering “Tongues”
1. Gifts and the Purposes of God Tragedy: Something Good been made a cause of conflict. Language creates confusion: “Gift” What are gifts like? Slightly luxurious For us personally Word “Gift” cues our expectations and behaviour
1. Gifts and the Purposes of God … Our assumptions are opposite of what God intends: Gifts are tools, not toys Gifts are given for the common good – not my selfish use Gifts are practical & necessary. Gifts place an obligation / responsibility on us: Used when they are needed – not when it suits me. Use them for everybody – not just those I like.
2. Tongues – what is it? Acts 2 – spoke in tongues (glossa), crowd heard their own languages (dialektos). (also 1 Cor 14:21-22) human language for the purpose of proclamation. 1 Cor 14:2 – speaking to God “heavenly” language for prayer. Note: not all “ecstatic babbling” is tongues.
3. What is it for? Two purposes: Human language for proclamation of God’s grace “Heavenly” language for prayer, praise, thanksgiving. Maybe: carry the burdens of others Maybe: to be prayer warriors for the church. Tongues is real, good and still operates today.
3. What is it for? Not to be misused: Not a proof of spirituality or spiritual status. Not to be the only gift everyone wants. There is an ordering of gifts. Eagerly desire the greater (less spectacular) gifts.
Living it... Correcting our perception: Gifts are tools not toys They are for others not just me. They are for building up, not status. Tongues “Heavenly” – become prayer warriors for the church Human – proclaim the Word of God boldly.