Studies in 1 Corinthians
The Commandments of the Lord
1 Cor. 14:36-40
Background
• Paul concluding discussion of spiritual gifts
• He has discussed importance of edification
• Past few lessons, proper order in the assembly
Did the word come from you?
• The church at Corinth acting exclusively
• Paul challenges their independent authority!
Did the word come from you?
• Do churches have authority to act on their own?
• NO! Such is lawlessness and leads to division & confusion.
• Unity – 1 Cor. 1:10, 3:1-4
Did the word come from you?• God’s authority taught
consistently – 1 Cor. 4:17, 7:17, 14:33cf. 2 Pet. 3:15-16
• Respect God’s boundaries – 1 Cor. 4:6, 1 Pet. 4:11
Acknowledge Paul (vs. 37)• Paul asserts his apostolic
authority
• Was Paul an apostle? 1 Cor. 1:1, 2 Cor. 11:51 Cor. 15:8 – out of due season!
Acknowledge Paul (vs. 37)• As an apostle, Paul…
• Suffered – 2 Cor. 11:22-29, 12:11
• A witness of Christ – (Acts 1:21-22) 2 Cor. 12:1-6, 1 Cor. 9:1, 15:8
Acknowledge Paul (vs. 37)• As an apostle, Paul…
• Acknowledged by others – 2 Pet. 3:15-16, Ac. 15, Gal. 2:7-9
• Signs of an apostle – 2 Cor. 12:12, 1 Cor. 2:4Ac. 19:6, 2 Tim. 1:6
IF anyone is ignorant (vs. 38)• One who refuses to accept the
truth is to be ignored (avoided)• NASU, “But if anyone does not
recognize this, he is not recognized.”
• See – 2 John 9-10, 2 Thess. 3:6, 14, Rom. 16:17
Desire to prophecy (vs. 39)• A summary of Paul’s point
throughout this chapter – see Vs. 12
Decently and in Order (vs. 40)• We have seen examples and
application of this.
• Do we apply that today? Start and end orderly?Singing orderly?Lesson useful?
In our worship and service to God (in everything),
let us NEVER dismiss His pattern or teachings.
It is still HIS church!Col. 3:17