Let’s not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. Instead, let’s encourage one another. And let’s meet and encourage one another even more as we see the day of Christ’s return approaching.
Suppose the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in unknown languages. If visitors or unbelievers come in, won’t they say that you’re out of your minds?
Don’t you have your own homes to eat and drink in? Or do you think so little of God’s church that you’re prepared to humiliate those who have nothing? What should I say to you? Should I praise you? Certainly not about this!
Brothers and sisters, what should we say then? When you come together, each of you should bring something—a hymn, a teaching, a revelation, a message in another language, or an explanation of what was said in another language. Everything must be done to build up the church.
Anyone who’s hungry should eat something at home first. That way, when you meet together, you won’t be judged. When I come, I’ll give you more directions.
If you do what’s right, you won’t need to be afraid of your rulers. But if you do what’s wrong, watch out! You don’t want to be afraid of those in authority, do you? Then do what’s right, and you’ll be praised.