1 Corinthians 14:24, 25
24 But if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all, 25 as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, “God is really among you!”
This comes after the chapter of Love, the greatest spiritual gift. We must consider that it is better for people to first know that they are sinners, before they know they are loved. How a church contrives this, it must follow the prompting of scripture and the Holy Spirit.
Seeking the gift of prophecy is the most loving gift. It edifies the church and it convinces the unbeliever that he is a sinner. Speaking in tongues does not do this. Do not mistake your perception that scripture is affirming your sentiment, to therefore determine a methodology of church practice.
If we are seeking a relationship with God, we will experience an every increasing dynamic of love in our life, imbuing our thoughts and actions. We will become more conscientious of the things that cause us to sin and what supports our desire to please God.
In the church we will reflect this struggle of love for God, love for one another. Through scripture the stumbling blocks of sin is exposed and the victorious life is experienced.
Victorious living is a life exalted in a closer relationship with God, its joy is found through good deeds, sacrifice, and keeping oneself unspotted from the world. This is not for our self, but because we know we are loved by God, we love our neighbor, and we love God. To be this way is to be like Christ, the perfect union of God and man.
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