Disorderly worship and disorderly women, 14:26-40. Part 1

The opening phrase of verse 26, “come together”,  indicates that the topic is public worship. It sets before us an interesting and important aspect of our worship. The phrase is a translation of a word which denotes union. A loving unity should mark the fellowship of believers. Let there be a proper considering of one another, praying for one another, greeting of one another that is in keeping with the tender and affectionate union that ought to exist amongst the worshippers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Doubtless Paul emphasised this because of the discordant behaviour seen in their worship. Paul deals with the exercise of gifts during worship  (26-33) and the behaviour of the womenfolk during worship (34-35) and concludes the matter with some general observations.

I. DISORDER IN THE WORSHIP

1. Paul repeats the general rule that edification should be the motive of all who give a lead in worship.

Verse 26, 31. The personal pleasure that resulted from displaying of the gift was the motive of the Corinthians. 

2. There is a controlling of the soul's energies required in a day of increased Holy Ghost activity. 

In a day of blessing by the Holy Spirit, there is a great need for restraint by believers lest they give way to the heightened feelings of joyful exuberance that is common on such occasions. When we study the writings of men such as Asahel Nettleton, the preacher in the midst of ongoing revival in the New England states in USA during the early years of the 19th century, we discover that they urged calm in the midst of the intense excitement and spiritual exhilaration being experienced by worshippers. Verse 32 — the word “subject” is illustrated in Luke 2:51. How well behaved and obedient was the Saviour. Even so should our spirits be. Both prophets and tongues speakers were to observe this self-control, 28, 30.

3. Due regard is to be taken to the common limitations on our time.

Some may well have been free to continue in worship for hours but not all. Some were slaves and dare not abuse their limited freedoms. Paul limits the number of speakers, verses 27- 29. 

4. The humble practise of esteeming others more highly than ourselves played a part in keeping the worship orderly.

Verses 30-31. There was to be a giving way to others, Rom 12:10. 

5. The dishonour and misrepresentation of the Lord that results from disorderliness in worship should promote order.

Verse 33, confusion = commotion. The Corinthian church was out of line with the other churches.