Anyone who claims to be a prophet, or to have spiritual powers, must acknowledge that what I am writing to you is a command of the Lord. Anyone who does not recognize this is not to be recognized. So, my friends, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues; but all things should be done decently and in order. (1Corinthians 14: 37-40)

After a quick right turn to impose female deference, the text returns to Paul's more nuanced treatment of tongues.

But once again there is an inconsistency. Previously Paul has been scrupulous to distinguish between his own judgment and the commands of Christ.

Paul notes that Jesus taught a husband and wife should not separate, and we recognize this from gospel accounts. Paul goes on to say it is his own opinion that believers and unbelievers should also remain in relationship. (1Cor. 7:10-12)

In Mark's gospel Jesus does refer to speaking in tongues, but he does not reference a greater role for prophecy. The kurios entole - Lord's command - might be God's command and, indeed, Paul has quoted Torah to support this position.

But coming from the same man who railed against circumcision and for the radical freedom of faithful choice, this seems a rather weak position.

We can see, perhaps, Paul struggling to balance his understanding - and explanation - of the complementary relationship of freedom and discipline.

In Galatia Paul encountered many whose experience of God was being impeded by an excessive concern for legal niceties. So his rhetoric highlighted freedom of choice.

In Corinth Paul perceives that too many have been distracted from God by self-indulgence. So he writes of the need for decent and orderly behavior.