(1Co 14:36) “What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? (37) If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.”  Those statements cover both the teachings regarding the use of the gifts and the conduct of women. Without doubt then, both are the teachings of our God to the local church.

(1Co 14:35) “And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.”  Asking her husband does two things. First, it demonstrates the heart’s attitude of submission to God. Second, it encourages and prompts the husband to study to be the spiritual leader he is meant to be.

(1Co 14:34) “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.”   This teaching will only be embraced by those who hold to and believe all the Word of God. A saved person has no choice but either to sin in rebellion or embrace it in love of their Savior.

(1Co 14:34) “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.”  This is referring to the instruction of men. Those listening to instruction are submitting to the teaching of another. It is God’s plan for men to hold positions of authority. This is explained later in this chapter.

(1Co 14:33) “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”  Taken with Verse 40, “Let all things be done decently and in order” a service should never be a mishmash, thrown together assembly, but one that reflects our God. He is the God of purpose, direction, moving us toward fulfillment of pre-determination.

(1Co 14:32) “And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.”   Remember, they did not possess the New Testament. Therefore, the average person had no means of comparison to know if what was being said was truth. This special gift of the Holy Spirit gave this power of discernment for the protection of the church.

(1Co 14:32) “And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.”  Not all that is said in the Name of the Lord is Bible truth. I have heard many times supposition being taught, even to the degree of “make believe”. You and I should be so acquainted with God’s Word that when error is taught, we know it. We should be so used to seeking the Spirit of God to teach us that when error is taught, we can discern His still quiet voice say, “No”.

(1Co 14:30) “If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. (31)  For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.”  I remind you, in our services, it is not about you. It is about the Lord. Those serving should have such humility that if they do not get to speak, or sing, or do whatever it is they were prepared to do, it is humbly accepted.If they cannot do so, they have no business serving.

(1Co 14:29) “Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.”  Why? Answer: (1Co 14:32) “And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.”  The test is whether those with this gift find that which is said to be in accordance to what has previously, over time, been revealed. The test was needed because there were false spirits  using false prophets.

(1Co 14:27) “If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. (28) But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.”  Take note that speaking in a language is not prophesying. It is the communication of the gospel. It’s focus is the Jew (v.22). The Jew is to recognize this as a fulfillment of prophecy.