"If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord"
(1 Corinthians 14:37 NKJV)

Paul's writings are the commandments of the Lord

1 Corinthians 12-14 exposes some Corinthian Christians who were obsessed with spiritual gifts — especially “showy” ones such as speaking in tongues. This section is the longest in the entire epistle — an indication that the Corinthians needed detailed instructions to remedy wrong actions and attitudes.

Their passion for “popular” gifts (such as speaking in tongues) led to feelings of superiority over those who were not gifted or who possessed less showy gifts such as prophecy, 1 Corinthians 12. Paul reminds them that spiritual gifts were temporary. The completed New Testament would entirely remove the need for miraculous gifts (1 Corinthians 13). In the meantime, they must abandon competitive actions and conceited attitudes. Carnal minds must quit glorying in their imagined superiority over others (1 Corinthians 12 and 1 Corinthians 14). Love is the remedy for selfishness (1 Corinthians 13).

The Lord’s church was not established to exalt the servants of God. Spiritual gifts were designed to edify Christians in the assembly (and also unbelievers). The gifts helped them to grow in love (1 Corinthians 14:1-5), understanding (1 Corinthians 14:20), worship (1 Corinthians 14:24-25), and to do all things decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40).

“If anyone thinks himself…” exposes the misguided zeal of some gifted people. Even if they are prophets or spiritual (spiritually gifted, 1 Corinthians 14:1?) they must remember that God’s word deserves the respect and praise that some sought for themselves(1 Corinthians 14:36). Paul is writing what the Lord commands (1 Corinthians 14:37).

The Corinthians did not write the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 14:36). They could not make their own rules, or worship as they pleased. Some modern churches seriously need to learn these same lessons.

– Rick Duggin