Decently and in order

Let all things be done decently and in order. – 1 Corinthians 14v40

It sounds like things were a mess in the church at Corinth. It only makes sense in the context of this church. They were carnal, they were divided, and they were schismatic. Can you imagine what it was like when they came together? I think Paul gives us some idea. It sounds like there was no order – some were speaking in tongues, some were preaching and prophesying, and others were praying. Even worse it looks like they were all doing this at the same time!

I am not going to deal with the subject of tongues here, but of the mess that was going on. Paul lets then know the error of their ways by telling them that, “God is not the author of confusion,” and later, “Let everything be done decently and in order.”

When we come together it only makes sense that humility and love lead us to respect each other enough to take turns in the service. No matter what our style of worship it must be decent and orderly. It cannot lead to disorder and confusion. It is clear that several people can minister in a service, but one at a time. If I am busy with my own part of the service, how can God use my brother to speak to my heart?