1 Corinthians 14:26-40

In ESV, this section is titled "Orderly Worship". There are certain ways they are to conduct themselves while they are together. One main point is that they are to take turns in speaking in tongues and in speaking prophecy or revelation to one another. Paul says in both cases that two or three at the most should speak and in turn. This seems to make sense in being orderly and organized. If everyone did it at the same time, then it wouldn't be orderly but confusing. However, if they did take turns but allowed many people to speak, then it would go on forever and people might forget some of the encouragements or revelations. This all "so that all may learn and all be encouraged," (v31, ESV). "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace." (v33, ESV)

Apparently, women are supposed to remain silent in the church. We did read in chapter 11 about how women should pray with their heads covered. This is all with respect to men and in line with the relationship between man and woman as well as man and God. Here in chapter 14, similar subjection for women is enforced.

The women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says.

(v34, ESV)

I just did a search for this verse so I wouldn't have to type it up. I could've easily gone to biblegateway, but I tried to see if the first search would've come up with the verse quicker. Unfortunately, the whole search was filled with articles discussing this very passage. Now, I'm sure there are many studies on all of scripture, but this one in particular is a hot topic because of what it says about women. Now, I'm not going to take a stance on this issue, but read it for yourselves and see where you stand on the issues. How do you interpret it? hm...

Orderly worship should not be confusing "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace." (v33, ESV). Referring back to the beginning of the chapter, it should be beneficial to others. We are to desire to prophecy, but not to forbid speaking in tongues (v39).