But Does the Teaching “Edify”?
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesIn a study of 1 Corinthians 14, and Paul’s instructions on the use of spiritual gifts in the services, we are impressed that the intent all should have is that edification be done. To “edify” is, in its basic meaning, “to build or construct,” and then from that, to build or construct a case wherein growth, knowledge, encouragement and instruction is expedited. Always the question, then, “Did the lesson edify?”
A lesson can be truthful in every point, and yet it not edify because no one could understand it. We note Paul’s emphasis, away from human wisdom, and away from any quality that would detract from edification (1 Corinthians 2:1, 4). One thing is certain: If the teacher keeps it simple, all can understand, and all can be edified.
The beloved H. Leo Boles, who was a scholar of the first rank, but whose lessons were always the utmost in simplicity, told of attending a gospel meeting held by one of his former students. It was truly an oratorical, intellectual and philosophical masterpiece! At the end of the service, the young man, no doubt hurt that Boles did not shower compliments upon him brought up the subject himself. He said, “As you can see, brother Boles, I put it up on the shelf, and made them reach for it!” To this, and to the smarting of the young man, Boles, the master teacher said, “Well, I put it down where the lambs can get it!”
One caution we need to make, due to the feelings some have expressed in recent is not so! If it is instruction from God, and thus is intended for man, presenting it in a fashion where man can understand provides edification for him. He may close the mind, and reject it all, but that is up to him!
The Southwesterner, June 28, 1989