Participate, Don’t Spectate
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. 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. (1 Corinthians 14:26-27)
Christianity is not meant to be a spectator sport. We don’t attend church to watch something unfold, as if we were going to a concert or a stage play! When the church gathers weekly (and I hope you attend weekly), they come together to participate in what the Holy Ghost wants to accomplish.
1 Corinthians 14:26-27 reminds us that everyone should bring a supply of the Spirit with them when they come to church. Then, as they flow in order, led by the pastor or preacher that day, some will have a psalm, a doctrine, a tongue, interpretation, or a revelation like the word of wisdom or word of knowledge.
Why isn’t that happening more often? I believe it’s because people are not getting into the flow of the Spirit, which happens by praying in tongues. Recently, I ministered at a church on a Sunday night, and I led them in praying in tongues. At first, some just watched, but I kept reminding them they were not there as spectators and encouraged them to pray in the Spirit. Finally, they did, and the atmosphere changed! I didn’t have to give words of revelation because others were coming forward as the Holy Spirit led. It was powerful, on point, and edifying. It wasn’t emotionalism; it was honest cooperation with the Holy Ghost!
Practical Application
The doorway to the supernatural is praying in tongues. So, prepare for church by engaging in prayer with tongues. If the pastor asks people to pray during the service, don’t be shy. Pray in the Spirit and be a participant, not a spectator.
