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1 Corinthians 14

1 Corinthians 14:4

Prophecy and Tongues · 1 Corinthians 14:1–25
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Translations

Modern
The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.
Traditional
He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
Literal
The one speaking in a tongue edifies himself, but the one prophesying edifies the church.
Latin
Qui loquitur lingua, semetipsum ædificat: qui autem prophetat, ecclesiam Dei ædificat.

Original

Greek
English
The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.

Notes

1 Corinthians 14:4

The main purpose of spiritual gifts is to strengthen the whole church, not just to improve oneself (see 12:7; compare 8:1; 14:12).

1 Corinthians 14:2–4

The issue with speaking in tongues is that listeners cannot easily understand the message. However, the gift of prophecy is clear and helpful. It is a message from God that strengthens, encourages, and comforts those who hear it.

1 Corinthians 14:1–25

After highlighting the supreme importance of love (chapter 13), Paul discusses spiritual gifts again. He defines their value by how much they help others, which reflects love (chapter 13). With this in mind, Paul compares the overvalued gift of speaking in tongues with the more helpful gift of prophecy.

1 Corinthians 12:1–14:40

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 Tongues, Speaking in

Topics

Church is Edified by the Word Edification is the Object of Ministerial Gifts Language: Power of Speaking Different: Sometimes Abused Language: Speaking in Inspired |Tongues| Forbidden Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Church is Edified by the Word The Gift of Tongues Tongues (The Gift): The Miraculous Gift Granted to some Early Christians