1 Corinthians 14:26-40 Decently and in Order

In the second half of 1 Corinthians 14, Paul makes a strong case that God is deeply concerned not merely that we worship Him, but also how we worship Him. As our confession states, "…the acceptable way of worshipping the true God is instituted by Him, and so limited by His own revealed will, that He may not be worshipped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture" (Westminster Confession of Faith 21.1). We are to enter worship reverently (Hebrews 12:28). We are to hear the Scriptures read (Revelation 1:3), preached (2 Timothy 4:2), and sung (Ephesians 5:19). We offer prayers (1 John 5:14) and receive the sacraments (1 Corinthians 11:23-29). And all of this is to be done "decently and in order" (1 Corinthians 14:40), even when the order given in the Scriptures runs counter to the sensibilities of our age (1 Corinthians 14:34). This morning, as we sing so many psalms and hymns that urge us to "fall down" before the triune God, worshipping in "humbleness," in "beauty of holiness," and with "glad adoration," I pray that our rejoicing will be disciplined by the fear of the Lord, as commanded in the Scriptures—and those who fear Him lack no good thing (Psalm 34:10). —Henry C. Haffner Key Words: Building Up, Silent, Weigh, Encouraged, Decently, In Order Keystone Verse: All things should be done decently and in order. (1 Corinthians 14:40)   1 Corinthians 14:26-40 What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. 27 If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. 28 But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. 30 If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, 32 and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets.33 For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, 34 the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. 35 If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church. 36 Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached? 37 If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord. 38 If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized. 39 So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But all things should be done decently and in order.