Gifts are to be given freely and for the building up of the Church (v39,40).
1. Everyone contributes. (v26) - various gifts for the building of the Church (Ephesians 4:16). In the Corinthian church they came ready to contribute, but, unfortunately it was more about themselves. (all to be done for the strengthening of the Body). We ought to expect to serve others.
2. Everyone contributes in a fitting and orderly way. (v39-40). God is a God of order (v33). (a) Tongues (v27) (b) Prophecy (v29). If the Church is not edified, then it is not to be used (v28, 30). Having a gift is not an end in itself, and is to be used in an appropriate way. Paul leads by example (v18).
3. Men and women in Church - really part of the discussion on doing things orderly. (v33-34). Role of teaching/prophecy in the Bible is given to men. (men and women are equal but have different roles). Women are able to speak in Church, but here it is the aspect of prophecy. Women were allowed to teach in the right setting (Titus 2:4). Remember the culture of the early Church. Note re v35 - what if they are not married? Paul is only speaking here about the role of prophecy. It is to our great harm if we ignore God's direction.
