Orderly Worship

1 Corinthians 14:26-33 When you assemble, each one has a…

1 Corinthians 14:26-33

²⁶What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. ²⁷If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must interpret; ²⁸but if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself and to God. ²⁹Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. ³⁰But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. ³¹For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted; ³²and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets; ³³for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

Orderly Worship in an Authentic Pentecostal Church: Honouring the Spirit’s Guidance

From the moment the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost, the Church has been infused with a divine energy, a spiritual dynamism that continues to animate believers to this day. This outpouring of the Spirit birthed a movement characterised by vibrant worship, fervent prayer, and the manifestation of spiritual gifts. As inheritors of this rich heritage, Pentecostal churches seek to maintain the spirit of Pentecost in their worship gatherings, guided by biblical principles outlined by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 14:26-33,39. In these verses, Paul provides invaluable insights into how orderly worship should be conducted in the context of a Pentecostal congregation. Let us delve into these principles to understand what orderly worship in an authentic Pentecostal church should look like:

Active Participation: Paul emphasises the importance of active participation from every member of the congregation. When believers gather together, each one should come prepared to contribute something edifying to the body, whether it be a psalm, a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation (verse 26). This inclusivity ensures that every individual has a role to play in building up the church.
Decorum in Spiritual Manifestations: While Pentecostal worship celebrates the supernatural manifestations of the Holy Spirit, Paul underscores the need for order and clarity. He instructs that if someone speaks in tongues, only two or at most three should speak, with interpretation provided to ensure understanding (verses 27-28). Similarly, he advises that prophetic utterances should be limited to two or three speakers, with others carefully discerning the messages shared (verses 29-31).
Submission to Divine Order: Paul reminds believers that the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets (verse 32), highlighting the importance of self-control and submission to divine authority within the worship context. This ensures that spiritual experiences are exercised in a manner that promotes unity and orderliness.
Pursuit of Edification: Above all, Paul emphasises the overarching goal of worship: edification. Whether through tongues, prophecy, or teaching, the primary aim is to instruct and encourage one another in the faith (verse 31). This underscores the importance of seeking the spiritual growth and well-being of the entire body of believers.
Eager Pursuit of Spiritual Gifts: In closing, Paul exhorts believers to eagerly desire the gift of prophecy and to not forbid speaking in tongues (verse 39). This encourages an atmosphere of openness to the manifestations of the Holy Spirit, fostering a dynamic and Spirit-led worship experience.

In summary, orderly worship in an authentic Pentecostal church is characterised by active participation, decorum in spiritual manifestations, submission to divine order, pursuit of edification, and an eager pursuit of spiritual gifts. By adhering to these biblical principles, Pentecostal congregations can cultivate worship gatherings that are both spiritually enriching and honouring to God, keeping the flame of Pentecost burning brightly in the hearts of believers.