Let’s lay aside for the moment some of the smaller theological issues, including the dissonant drumbeat about “governmental structure”, in the latest The Trumpet online article “How Practical Is Prophecy?” by Ryan Malone. Rather, let’s cut to the chase.
Within chapters 12 and 13 [of 1Co 12], Paul is gearing up for an in-depth discussion on speaking in tongues, and giving the members at Corinth the proper perspective on this gift. Lumped in with that is this discussion of the gift of prophecy. But notice, both gifts are meaningless if they lack God’s love.
In chapter 14, Paul begins, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy” (verse 1). The Moffatt translation states that more clearly: “Make love your aim, and then set your heart on spiritual gifts. Especially on prophecy.”
Yes, acquiring God’s nature must be our goal above all else—because it permeates every aspect of our Christian lives. But notice! After that, Paul says, seek the gift of prophecy next.
[Emphasis Malone’s]
Yes, PCG, “prophecy next”, not first.
35By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. (John 13:35, King James Version)
Jesus said love was so important that it would be how His disciples would be known to those outside of the Church! He didn’t say it would be prophecy! However, Jesus also said something else that should make those who only want to mouth words from the Bible tremble:
22But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (James 1:22, King James Version)
22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
24Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
25And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
26And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
27And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. (Matthew 7:22-27, King James Version)
So, PCG, show us your faith by your works. Require your members to reconcile with those in other COGs. Feed the widows instead of building silly auditoriums. Show your love instead of printing an article about it.