All those who BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ RECEIVE the Holy Spirit of God (John 7:37-39). This blessed and divine Person dwells within every born again believer (1 Corinthians 6:19; Romans 8:9). The living God wants to powerfully WORK in the submissive believer to produce CHRIST-LIKENESS (see Philippians 2:13)
Problem: Paul, in correcting the misuse of tongues in Corinth, set forth certain regulations for the proper use of tongues in the assembly. The governing principles behind all of these regulations are summed up in verse 26 (“Let all things be done unto edifying”) and in verse 40 (“Let all things be done decently and in order”). Paul did not forbid the Corinthians to speak with tongues (verse 39) but he did forbid any tongues-speaking contrary to the rules which he set forth.
Problem: What were tongues for? What was the purpose of this gift? The one place in the New Testament which clearly sets forth the purpose of tongues is 1 Corinthians 14:22: “Wherefore, tongues are for a sign . . .” The preposition translated “for” (eis) here denotes purpose. The verse is introduced by the particle “wherefore” (hoste), which means “for this reason, therefore.” Paul’s explanation in verse 22 concerning the purpose of tongues is actually an inference based upon his words in verse 21. Therefore, the key to understanding the purpose of tongues must be found in 1 Corinthians 14:21. Verse 21 begins with these important words, “In the law it is written . . .”
Follow after charity [love], and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy (1 Corinthians 14:1).
Continuing his movement of thought from the previous chapter, Paul sets forth a command: “Follow after [run after, pursue, chase, as a hunter would chase after prey or as a runner would run to the finish line to receive a prize] love.” The reason is obvious: “Love edifies [builds up]” (1 Corinthians 8:1). Love seeks to please his neighbor for his good to edification (Romans 15:2). Love seeks the highest and best for the person loved. And God seeks the highest and best for His assembly. Indeed the highest and best gift is that of prophecy (forthtelling and communicating God’s truth to God’s people). Prophecy excels in edificational value!