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