“CORPORATE WORSHIP & SPIRITUAL GIFTS - PT. III”

TEXT: 1 Corinthians 14

REVIEW & INTRO: God wants us to further mature in the area of manifesting spiritual gifts, which is likely to require change, which is generally uncomfortable.

I. THREE FACTORS IN EFFECTIVELY MANIFESTING

     SPIRITUAL GIFTS.

A. CONTENT.

     1. Is it in harmony with Scripture?

     2. Does it edify, exhort or comfort rather than rebuke

          (vv. 3, 12, 26c)?

     3. Is it meant to be shared corporately, or is it more for

          me personally or for the purpose of intercession?

     4. Is it truly a prophetic word or more of a devotional or

          teaching?

     5. Is it mostly a repeat of what’s already been shared?

B. TIMING.

     1. Does it fit the current flow or emphasis (v. 33)?

     2. Is it likely to move the service to a higher level?

     3. How many manifestations have there been?

     4. Is it time to change the order of service?

C. DELIVERY.

     1. It shouldn’t detract from the content.

     2. It should reflect God’s love (not harsh or loud).

     3. It should generally come across naturally (not too

          dramatized).

     4. It should be a reasonable length that doesn’t assume

          undue authority or dominate the service.

     5. Face the congregation.

     6. Either in 1^st or 3^rd person is acceptable.

     7. Please don’t call for an immediate response from the

          congregation.

II. OTHER PROTOCOLS.

CONCLUSION (vv. 37-40): Let’s pursue growth in the area of manifesting spiritual gifts in corporate worship, which will result in the further building up of the church.