17 For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. 1 Corinthians 14:17-19
St. Paul taught that Christian worship is not about people trying to outdo each other with their own personal piety or spiritual gifts. Christian worship is:
- Listening and learning God’s Word and receiving His Sacraments. Receiving God’s blessings is to honor, thank and praise Him above all things. We need Him and His blessings more than anything else in the whole created universe. Singing our praises and prayers to God are good, but of first honor to God is to receive His Word.
- Benefitting fellow worshipers in all that we do. Paul is very clear, if our worship activities are not understood and are not a blessing to fellow Christians (and visitors!) then he said, “we are speaking to the air” (14:9). Our teachings, prayers, songs, praises and offerings should benefit all God’s people.
FIVE WORDS to instruct are better than 10,000 words in a language that no one understands. Hearing and learning God’s Word to benefit and build up all in our Christian worship is what pleases and honors our Lord.
During this season of Epiphany the sermons at Zion Lutheran are considering Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-15. For February 13, 20 and 27 we will consider Paul’s teaching on Jesus’ resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15. Come visit us in person or listen to our recorded services and Pastor Rockrohr’s sermons online!
God’s Blessings! Pastor Carl Rockrohr
Sermon Only: Sermon_Feb6_22.mp3
Sermon Notes: Feb 6
Download PDF Service Bulletin File: February 6 Service Bulletin
Listen to/Download Entire Worship Service. Feb6_ZionWorship.mp3
Feb6_ZionBulletin
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