Spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues and prophecy are often misunderstood, but First Corinthians 14 brings clarity to both. Speaking in tongues is a Spirit-empowered ability to speak an unlearned language, and it builds up the speaker while also encouraging others when interpreted. New Testament prophecy is not about predicting the future but about bringing encouragement, strengthening, and consolation to God's people. Paul's overarching call is to pursue love while earnestly desiring spiritual gifts, always with the goal of building up the church. When we gather, the priority should be others' comprehension and encouragement over personal experience or recognition. The church is not a place to consume but a place to contribute, and every believer is called to show up as a crew member, not a passenger.
Lost In Translation | Pastor Ryan McCammack