1 Corinthians 14:37

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

Translations

Modern
If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is the Lord’s command.
Traditional
If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
Literal
If anyone thinks to be a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things I write to you are commands of the Lord.
Latin
Si quis videtur propheta esse, aut spiritualis, cognoscat quæ scribo vobis, quia Domini sunt mandata.

Original

Greek
English
If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is the Lord’s command.

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 Natural Man New Testament Canon Prophecy Spiritual Gifts

Topics

Word of God: Inspiration of