1 Corinthians 14:40 Commentary and Bible Study

These words are very deep and very important. ‘Decently’ – you could translate the Greek term as ‘well-formed’. It is rather like a piece of pottery being shaped by the potter. It must be the right shape. It must be balanced; it can’t be ludicrously top-heavy, it wouldn’t look right, it wouldn’t stand up right either; it can’t be ugly, it has got to be aesthetically an acceptable shape, something which is balanced and appropriate. When the apostle says, ‘Let all things be done decently’, he is asking, ‘Is your worship fit for God? It must not be entertainment, but it must be fit for sacred use, for high and holy things. It cannot be flippant, light, or man-centred – applauding people. It must be well-formed, appropriate, correct for the worship of our majestic and glorious God?‘And in order.’ It is like a military term: in ranks, in battle formation. Is there an order in worship? Innovation is out. It is not to tickle fancy. It is predictable, it is reverent, and it has all the correct elements in it, none missing.Well, when you bear all that in mind, it is not surprising that the New Testament puts rules and limits on the worship. Even in the days of prophets, not more than three. Even in the days of tongues speakers – real languages – not more than three. It is not surprising, because there is so much to be thought about in a valid, real service of worship, which will uplift the heart.