1 Corinthians: Gifts, Leadership and Order in Worship

It is important to remember the relevance of the public private distinction in much of 1 Corinthians. There are several verses that point to gatherings of the church as a church (11:17, 18). In such circumstances it appears that Paul expected certain patterns of behaviour. Mostly these were not Paul’s own rulings but traditions that he had received (11:2, 16, 23). So, for example, it appears best to understand Paul’s teachings about women and head coverings as referring to formal gatherings of the church.

One reason for gatherings of the church is to eat (11:33). The church gathers to eat the Lord’s Supper. But Paul writes that things are so bad in Corinth that the Lord’s Supper is not actually celebrated (11:20). This curious statement suggests that practical errors can rob worship ceremonies of their perceived significance.

In general, Paul’s teachings concerning spiritual gifts do not have specific reference to corporate worship. Nothing in chapters 12 and 13 is narrowly concerned with gatherings of the church. However gifts cannot be ignored in gatherings of the church. Gifted people are those who should lead and speak in worship gatherings of the church. Only a few men should take part in good order with a view to building up the church (14:26-30). Women are not to be involved in these lead speaking roles, but they are free to speak outside of formal worship gatherings (14:34, 35).

These restrictions do not mean that people are passive when the church gathers. All are to weigh prophecy (14:29), all are to be instructed (14:31), all should be able to say ‘Amen’ (14:16). It is even possible for unbelievers to be moved to worship as they observe a church at worship (14:25).