Part 1: Study of 1 Corinthians 14 and Part 2: Counseling with Charismatics As Pastors As We Deal Glossolalia

Abstract

This paper combines exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 14:1–25 with pastoral guidance for addressing glossolalia (speaking in tongues) among charismatics. Part I emphasizes Paul’s normative principle of love and the priority of prophecy over tongues for edifying the church. Glossolalia, while acknowledged as a gift, is shown to be secondary, often misunderstood, and never intended as normative or evangelistic. The study critiques charismatic reinterpretations of prophecy and tongues, highlighting dangers such as undermining Scripture’s sufficiency and confusing Law and Gospel. Part II offers counseling principles: recognize the phenomenon’s biblical mention without making it prescriptive, guard against fraud and spiritual harm, and stress assurance through Word and Sacraments rather than ecstatic experience. The essay warns against doctrinal errors—legalism, minimizing Christ’s completed work, and elevating subjective experience over objective truth—while urging pastoral patience, discernment, and fidelity to Scripture. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT‑4)