1 Corinthians 14

There is much debate about the sign gifts (prophesy, speaking in tongues, etc.), whether or not they are given for our use today. However, we do not have the space to get into that here. Rather I am going to call attention to two verses, the implications of which are useful regardless of one's position on the existence of sign gifts today.

1) "Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church" (vs 12). Paul knows the Corinthians were enamored with the gifts of the Spirit, so he knows if they strive for the gifts only, it will end up being about themselves, as it has been already. So Paul tells them to strive to build up the church. This will ensure that whatever gifts the Spirit gives will be used for the good of others and not for selfish gain.

2) "Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature" (vs 20). The Corinthians are so taken by these manifestations of the Spirit that they are acting like children. Paul says that they should act like children, infants actually--only when it comes to doing evil, for in that they are to be innocent. But when it comes to thinking and doing what is godly, they are to be mature, as adults. Said another way, "Be childlike, not childish."

So what does this mean for you and me? Well, you may not necessarily desire to speak in tongues, but maybe you have a strong desire to teach, or play music, or become a doctor, etc. These are good things! But remember that children only desire things to satisfy themselves. So always make sure that your desire to use a gift for the benefit of others is stronger than your desire for the gift itself.