Today’s Thought “Church Hyperbolizing” G. Ward

“What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” 1 Corinthians 14:26

 

What if on the next worship experience it involved no music, mundane singing and monotone speaking took place (cf. 1 Cor. 2:4, 2 Cor.11:6), but all recited was positively true; would you categorize that as worthy of great praise? Corinth, with its many churches experienced more of the Roman Empire’s religiosity than necessary. Ecstatic speech (understood by no one) was indicative of pagan worship. For the sake of individualized idolatrous worship of varied deities, Gentiles exercised in pseudo languages at the top of their voices (as to drown out other’s chant). Unfortunately, this church age (in contrast) has done poorly in what took place over 2000 years ago. The imagery for an unbeliever most certainly should be our concern (cf. 1 Cor. 14:23); yet we have the most in-authentic appearance in our local fellowships. Teachers exacerbate mediocrity among their members (cf. Hos.4:6) by neglecting to truly define each passage without philosophical impartations (i.e. catchy verbiage). Have you ever thought about the many teaching scenarios of the New Testament without Gentile (or worldly) influences? Ninety percent or better involved individuals listening attentively, without shouting, ecstatic speech and dancing, leaving many convicted (of their sins) then to do the Master’s will or to run from it (deciding their own way was good enough)…

Happy Wednesday!