1 Corinthians 12:28, Diversity of Tongues

1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

The gift of tongues speaks of the ability to speak in different foreign languages that was prevalent in the Corinthian church. William MacDonald explained insightfully, “Last is the gift of tongues. We believe that there is a significance in the order. Paul mentions apostles first and tongues last. The Corinthians were putting tongues first and disparaging the apostle!”

Walvoord further elaborated, “The gift of tongues, on the other hand, suited the Corinthian penchant for self-expression and the pursuit of personal freedom. This self-centeredness also afflicted the church in other areas (e.g., eating sacrificial foods, women in worship, celebration of the Lord’s Supper).”

The Lord strengthen His church that His church may be fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord. Amen.