1 Corinthians 14:36

Orderly Worship · 1 Corinthians 14:26–40
Read 1 Corinthians 14

Translations

Modern
Did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only ones it has reached?
Traditional
What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?
Literal
Or did the word of God go out from you? Or did it come to you only?
Latin
An a vobis verbum Dei processit? aut in vos solos pervenit?

Original

Greek
English
Did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only ones it has reached?

Notes

  • As an apostle, Paul wanted the Corinthians to treat his words as commands from the Lord.

  • What I am writing you: This likely refers to all his teachings, especially about spiritual gifts.

Paul provides clear instructions for using spiritual gifts in the church. He stresses the importance of expressing them in an orderly manner. In the early Christian community, church meetings were not led by professional pastors or priests. Instead, everyone shared what God had given them to strengthen the church.

The church in Corinth focused too much on the gift of speaking in tongues (see 14:1–25, 27; compare the lists in 12:8–10, 28, where Paul lists tongues last). Paul offers advice to correct their understanding of the value and use of spiritual gifts.

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Charismata Church Meetings First Letter to the Corinthians Mystery Prophecy