Second Reason

Because I desire “rather [to] prophesy”* (1 Corinthians 14:1) (preach).

Paul says, “I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.”* (1 Corinthians 14:5)

The Apostle’s principal thought was edification. In the preceding verse he plainly states, “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.”* (1 Corinthians 14:4) Personally, I feel as did the Apostle—I would rather edify others than myself. It is a wonderful gift. I covet it more and more—to be able to preach with such unction and power as to bring sinners to repentance and cause saints to rejoice in the Lord.

This was also the chief thought in the mind of the prophet Joel. God puts first things first. Mark the language! Joel did not say, “Your sons and daughters shall speak in tongues,” or “do signs and wonders,” but “prophesy.”* (Joel 2:28)

In this age of shallowness the great need is for men who can stand up under the anointing of God and proclaim the gospel until sandy foundations crumble and carnality is seen to be exceedingly sinful. I would rather do this and see souls come through clearly into a right relationship with God than have any or all other gifts.