1 Corinthians 14 summary meaning ai explained commentary

1 Corinthians 14 meaning explained in AI Summary

This chapter tackles the issue of spiritual gifts within the Corinthian church, specifically focusing on the use of tongues (speaking in other languages) and prophecy (speaking God's message in one's own language).

Key Points:

Prioritize Edification: Paul emphasizes that all spiritual gifts should be used for building up the church (edification) and not for personal display. (verses 1-5, 12, 26)
Prophecy over Tongues: While acknowledging the validity of tongues, Paul argues that prophecy is the more valuable gift because it directly edifies the church by conveying God's message in a way everyone can understand. Tongues, without interpretation, are only beneficial to the speaker. (verses 6-25)
Order in Worship: Paul stresses the importance of order and understanding in worship. He instructs that only two or three people should speak in tongues, and each instance should be followed by an interpretation. If no interpreter is present, the speaker should remain silent. Similarly, only two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh what is said. (verses 27-33)
Women in Worship: Paul instructs women to remain silent in church gatherings. This verse (14:34-35) has been a source of much debate and interpretation, with some arguing for its cultural context and others for its timeless application.
Conclusion: Paul concludes by reiterating the importance of order and decency in worship, urging the Corinthians to desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, and to do everything in a fitting and orderly way. (verses 39-40)

Overall Message:

The overarching message of 1 Corinthians 14 is that love should guide the use of spiritual gifts. All gifts should be used for the common good, building up the church and glorifying God. While acknowledging the validity of various gifts, Paul emphasizes the importance of clarity, understanding, and order in worship, prioritizing gifts that edify the entire community.

1 Corinthians 14 bible study ai commentary

The overarching theme of 1 Corinthians 14 is the proper regulation of spiritual gifts, especially tongues and prophecy, within the corporate worship service. Paul's primary concern is oikodomē (edification); he argues that any practice in the church must be intelligible and orderly, serving to build up the entire community in faith, not merely to benefit the individual expressing the gift. Love remains the ultimate guiding principle, and all things must be done decently and in order to reflect the nature of God.

1 Corinthians 14 Context

The church in Corinth was a vibrant, charismatic community in a bustling, cosmopolitan Greek port city. It was also rife with problems stemming from cultural pride, divisions, and a misunderstanding of spiritual matters. Worship services were apparently chaotic, with multiple people speaking in tongues simultaneously without interpretation, creating confusion rather than edification. This behavior may have mirrored the ecstatic, unintelligible utterances common in local pagan mystery cults, like the Oracle at Delphi. Paul writes to correct this disorder, subordinating spectacular individual experiences to the principle of communal benefit and intelligible teaching.

1 Corinthians 14:1

Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.
In-depth-analysis
This verse acts as a bridge from the "more excellent way" of love (chapter 13) to the practical instructions on spiritual gifts. Love is not a gift but the motivation and context for all gifts.
"Follow the way of love": Greek diōkete tēn agapēn. Diōkete means to pursue or hunt with passion and persistence. It's an active, continuous command.
"eagerly desire": Greek zēloute. This word can mean to be zealous for or to covet. It's the same root word used negatively for "jealousy" but here is positive. Christians should passionately want God's spiritual gifts to operate among them.
"especially prophecy": Paul immediately establishes a hierarchy of practical value for the corporate gathering. Prophecy is prioritized because, as the chapter will explain, it is intelligible and edifying to the entire church.

Bible references

1 Cor 12:31: But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way. (Direct precedent)
1 Tim 4:14: Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy... (Importance of the prophetic gift)
Rom 12:6: We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; (Prophecy as a primary grace gift)

Cross references

1 Thes 5:20 (do not despise prophecies); Acts 2:17-18 (prophecy for all in the last days); 1 Pet 4:10-11 (using gifts to serve others).

1 Corinthians 14:2

For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit.
In-depth-analysis
Paul defines the function of speaking in tongues (glossa). Its primary audience is God.
It is distinct from the event in Acts 2, where the "tongues" were understood as known human languages by the hearers. Here, Paul states "no one understands them." This suggests the Corinthian manifestation was a spiritual prayer language.
"utter mysteries": This is not necessarily complex doctrinal truth, but things hidden from human understanding. The communication bypasses the speaker's mind and is a spirit-to-Spirit (human to divine) interaction.

Bible references

Acts 2:4: All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (The initial outpouring, contextually different)
Rom 8:26: ...the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. (Parallel concept of Spirit-level communication)
Acts 10:46: For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. (Tongues linked to praise, a God-directed activity)

Cross references

Jude 1:20 (praying in the Holy Spirit); Eph 6:18 (praying in the Spirit); Acts 19:6 (tongues and prophecy together).

1 Corinthians 14:3-5

But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.
In-depth-analysis
The supreme value of prophecy in the assembly is its purpose: to benefit others.
"strengthening, encouraging and comfort": Greek oikodomēn kai paraklēsin kai paramuthian. This is the three-fold result of prophecy: building up faith, exhorting to press on, and consoling in sorrow.
Speaking in tongues has a valid, positive function: "edifies themselves." It builds up the individual's spirit. Paul does not forbid it; he affirms his own use of it (v. 18) and wishes all had the gift.
The Principle of Equivalence: The gift of tongues + interpretation is made functionally equivalent to prophecy because it becomes intelligible and thus edifies the whole church.
"greater": This is not a judgment on the person's spirituality but on the gift's functional utility within the corporate gathering.

Bible references

Eph 4:12: ...to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. (The purpose of all ministry gifts is edification)
1 Thes 5:11: Therefore encourage one another and build each other up... (Mutual edification as a core church function)
Acts 15:32: Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers. (Example of prophetic ministry)

Cross references

Rom 14:19 (pursue what leads to peace and edification); 2 Cor 12:19 (we do everything to build you up); Heb 3:13 (encourage one another daily).

1 Corinthians 14:6-12

Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? ... So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.
In-depth-analysis
Paul uses analogies of inanimate instruments (flute, harp, trumpet) to argue for clarity and distinction.
An uncertain sound on a trumpet is useless for battle; likewise, unintelligible speech in church is useless for spiritual edification. The meaning is lost.
"speaking into the air" (v. 9): A metaphor for futility. The words have no impact as they are not understood.
The goal is not just to have gifts, but to "excel" (perisseuēte) in them for the specific purpose of building up the church. This redirects the Corinthians' competitive zeal toward a selfless goal.

Bible references

Isa 28:10: For it is: Do this, do that, a rule for this, a rule for that; a little here, a little there. (God mocking the unintelligible, repetitive speech of scoffers)
Num 10:9: When you go into battle... you are to sound a blast on the trumpets. (A trumpet's purpose is a clear, understood signal)

Cross references

Col 4:6 (let your speech be gracious and seasoned); Matt 5:16 (let your light shine before others); 1 Tim 4:15 (be diligent in your gifts).

1 Corinthians 14:13-19

For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret... For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful... In the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
In-depth-analysis
This section focuses on the relationship between the spirit (pneuma) and the mind (nous).
"my mind is unfruitful": When praying in tongues without understanding, the intellect is not engaged. While the spirit is edified, the cognitive part of the person is not.
Paul's solution is not to eliminate one for the other, but to engage both: "I will pray with my spirit, and I will also pray with my understanding."
The final contrast—"five intelligible words" versus "ten thousand words in a tongue"—is a powerful hyperbole emphasizing the supreme value of understandable instruction in a corporate setting. The ratio (1:2000) makes the point impossible to miss.
This passage affirms Paul's own robust personal practice of praying in tongues ("I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you"). This validates the gift's private use while regulating its public use.

Bible references

Psa 47:7: For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise with understanding. (Old Testament precedent for worship with understanding)
Col 3:16: Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit... (Worship that involves teaching and wisdom)

Cross references

Eph 5:19 (speaking to one another in psalms, hymns); Phil 4:8 (thinking on what is true); 2 Tim 2:7 (the Lord will give you insight).

1 Corinthians 14:20-25

Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children... In the Law it is written: “With other tongues and through the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.” Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers, but for believers... if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin... and they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, “God is really among you!”
In-depth-analysis
Paul chides them for their childish fascination with the spectacular (tongues) over the substantive (prophecy).
He quotes Isaiah 28:11-12, re-contextualizing it. In Isaiah, God threatened to speak to rebellious Israel through the foreign tongues of Assyrian invaders as a sign of judgment. They still would not listen.
Tongues as a sign for unbelievers: Paul applies the Isaiah principle. Unintelligible tongues in the assembly can be a sign of judgment or alienation to an unbeliever, confirming their outsider status and God's "otherness," potentially hardening them.
Prophecy for believers (and convicting to unbelievers): While prophecy's main purpose is to edify believers, it has a powerful evangelistic side effect. An unbeliever hearing clear, Spirit-anointed truth is convicted ("convicted by all, judged by all"), their heart is exposed, and they are brought to repentance and worship.
The result of orderly, prophetic worship is the unbeliever's confession: "God is really among you!". This is the ultimate goal.

Bible references

Isa 28:11-12: For with garbled lips and strange tongues he will speak to this people... but they would not listen. (The source text for Paul's argument)
John 4:29: "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?" (The convicting power of supernatural knowledge, akin to prophecy)
Heb 4:12: For the word of God is alive and active... it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (The exposing power of God's Word, which prophecy delivers)

Cross references

Acts 2:37 (hearers were "cut to the heart"); Jer 23:29 ("Is not my word like fire... and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?"); 1 Sam 10:10-11 (prophecy causing observers to question what is happening).

1 Corinthians 14:26-33

What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up... Two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret... For God is not a God of disorder but of peace...
In-depth-analysis
This section provides concrete, practical regulations for the church service.
The principle is stated first: "Everything must be done so that the church may be built up."
Regulations for Tongues:
Limited to two or three speakers per meeting.
They must speak "one at a time."
There must be an interpretation.
If there is no one present with the gift of interpretation, the one who would speak in a tongue must "keep quiet" in the church and speak to himself and to God.
Regulations for Prophecy:
Limited to two or three speakers.
The others should "weigh carefully what is said" (diakrinetōsan). This calls for discernment, testing the prophecy against apostolic doctrine.
The underlying theological reason for all this is the character of God: He is a God of peace (eirēnēs), not of disorder (akatastasias). A chaotic service misrepresents God.

Bible references

1 Thes 5:20-21: Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. (The principle of testing prophecy)
1 John 4:1: ...do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (A command to discern spiritual utterances)
Col 2:5: ...I delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. (Paul commending order in another church)

Cross references

Rom 16:17 (watch out for those who cause divisions); Tit 1:9 (holding firmly to the trustworthy message); 1 Pet 5:5 (be submissive to one another).

1 Corinthians 14:34-35

Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.
In-depth-analysis
This is one of the most debated passages in the New Testament.
"silent": Greek sigaō, the same word used in v. 28 (for tongues-speakers without an interpreter) and v. 30 (for a prophet to yield to another). It suggests refraining from a particular kind of speech, not necessarily absolute muteness.
The specific prohibitions are "to speak" (lalein) and the instruction is to "ask their own husbands at home," suggesting the disruptive "speaking" was evaluative or questioning speech during the teaching/prophecy.
This command must be reconciled with 1 Corinthians 11:5, where Paul gives instructions for how women are to pray and prophesy in church. If they can prophesy (which is speaking), then the "silence" in chapter 14 cannot be absolute.
The context is about preventing the "disorder" (v. 33) and "disgraceful" (aischron) behavior that was plaguing the Corinthian service.

Bible references

1 Cor 11:5: But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head... (Shows women were audibly participating in worship)
1 Tim 2:11-12: A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. (A parallel passage addressing order and authority structures)
Gal 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (The overarching principle of spiritual equality in Christ)

Cross references

Tit 2:5 (women being busy at home, self-controlled); Acts 21:9 (Philip's four unmarried daughters who prophesied); Joel 2:28 (God will pour out His Spirit on sons and daughters, and they will prophesy).

Polemics

Scholarly interpretations of this passage vary widely:

A prohibition of disruptive questioning: Given the cultural context where most women lacked formal theological education, their questions during the service could derail the proceedings. The command is to hold those questions for a more appropriate setting.
A prohibition on judging prophecy: The "speaking" forbidden here could be specifically the act of "weighing" or judging prophecy (v. 29), which was considered an authoritative leadership function reserved for the male elders in that context.
A later scribal insertion (interpolation): Some scholars (like Gordon Fee) argue these verses were not in Paul's original letter. They point to the fact that some manuscripts place vv. 34-35 at the very end of the chapter, suggesting it was a marginal note that was later incorporated into the text in different places. This view is not held by the majority.

1 Corinthians 14:36-38

Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord’s command. But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored.
In-depth-analysis
Paul concludes his instructions by asserting his apostolic authority in the strongest terms.
The two rhetorical questions are a sharp rebuke to Corinthian arrogance. They are not the originators or sole proprietors of God's truth; they are recipients and must submit to it.
The test of a true prophet or spiritual person is their ability to recognize his instructions as "the Lord's command."
"they will themselves be ignored": This can be interpreted as being ignored by God, by the church, or simply a statement of the consequence—their ignorance will lead to their own spiritual detriment. It's a solemn warning.

Bible references

2 Cor 10:8: So even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up... I will not be ashamed of it. (Paul's defense of his God-given authority)
Gal 1:8: But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! (Assertion of the finality of apostolic teaching)

Cross references

1 Thes 4:1-2 (commands given by the authority of the Lord Jesus); 2 Thes 3:14 (take note of anyone who does not obey).

1 Corinthians 14:39-40

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.
In-depth-analysis
A perfect, balanced summary of the entire chapter's argument.
Reaffirms the positive commands:
Eagerly desire (zēloute) to prophesy.
Do not forbid (mē kōluete) speaking in tongues.
Provides the governing principle for everything:
"Fitting": Greek euschēmonōs. Meaning decently, with good form, appropriately.
"Orderly": Greek kata taxin. Meaning in a set order, in sequence, not in chaos.
This final statement encapsulates the balance between spiritual passion and disciplined order that Paul desires for the church.

Bible references

1 Cor 14:1: ...eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. (Bookending the chapter with the same exhortation)
1 Thes 5:19: Do not quench the Spirit. (Corresponds to "do not forbid speaking in tongues")

Cross references

Col 2:5 (delighting in their good order and stability); Rom 13:13 (behave decently); Heb 13:17 (obey your leaders).

1 Corinthians chapter 14 analysis

The Primacy of Edification (Oikodomē): The word for "building up" or "edification" appears seven times in this chapter. It is the metric by which all activity in the assembly is to be measured. Personal experience is valued, but communal benefit is prioritized. This is a direct challenge to the individualistic, show-oriented spirituality of Corinth.
Mind and Spirit working together: Paul argues against a mindless spirituality. He validates Spirit-led experience (praying in tongues) but insists it be brought into fellowship with the mind (through interpretation or by praying with understanding). True Christian spirituality is holistic, engaging the entire person.
God's Character reflected in Worship: The argument that "God is not a God of disorder but of peace" (v.33) is the theological foundation for the chapter's regulations. How the church worships is a public statement about who their God is. Chaos misrepresents His character.
Missionary Context: The impact on the "unbeliever or inquirer" is a recurring concern (vv. 16, 23-25). Paul is deeply practical. A church service should be a place where a non-Christian can enter, understand what is happening, be convicted of their need for God, and be drawn to worship Him. Unintelligible chaos pushes them away.

1 Corinthians 14 summary

Paul instructs the Corinthian church to pursue love and desire spiritual gifts, prioritizing prophecy over uninterpreted tongues in corporate worship because its intelligible nature strengthens, encourages, and comforts the entire community. He provides clear regulations for the use of both gifts—limiting the number of speakers, requiring interpretation for tongues, and demanding discernment for prophecy—all to ensure that worship is orderly, edifying, and reflective of the God of peace, ultimately so that unbelievers might be won to Christ.

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1 Corinthians 14 AI Image Audio and Video

1 Corinthians chapter 14 kjv

¹ Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
² For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
³ But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
⁴ He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
⁵ I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
⁶ Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?
⁷ And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
⁸ For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
⁹ So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
¹⁰ There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
¹¹ Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
¹² Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
¹³ Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
¹⁴ For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
¹⁵ What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
¹⁶ Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
¹⁷ For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
¹⁸ I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
¹⁹ Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
²⁰ Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
²¹ In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.
²² Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
²³ If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
²⁴ But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
²⁵ And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
²⁶ How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
²⁷ If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
²⁸ But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
²⁹ Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
³⁰ If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
³¹ For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
³² And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
³³ For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
³⁴ Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.
³⁵ And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
³⁶ What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?
³⁷ 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.
³⁸ But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
³⁹ Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
⁴⁰ Let all things be done decently and in order.

1 Corinthians chapter 14 nkjv

¹ Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.
² For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.
³ But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.
⁴ He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.
⁵ I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.
⁶ But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching?
⁷ Even things without life, whether flute or harp, when they make a sound, unless they make a distinction in the sounds, how will it be known what is piped or played?
⁸ For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle?
⁹ So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air.
¹⁰ There are, it may be, so many kinds of languages in the world, and none of them is without significance.
¹¹ Therefore, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I shall be a foreigner to him who speaks, and he who speaks will be a foreigner to me.
¹² Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel.
¹³ Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret.
¹⁴ For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
¹⁵ What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
¹⁶ Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say?
¹⁷ For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified.
¹⁸ I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all;
¹⁹ yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.
²⁰ Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature.
²¹ In the law it is written: "With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to this people; And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me," says the Lord.
²² Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe.
²³ Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind?
²⁴ But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all.
²⁵ And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.
²⁶ How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.
²⁷ If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.
²⁸ But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.
²⁹ Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge.
³⁰ But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent.
³¹ For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged.
³² And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
³³ For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
³⁴ Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says.
³⁵ And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
³⁶ Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached?
³⁷ If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord.
³⁸ But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant.
³⁹ Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.
⁴⁰ Let all things be done decently and in order.

1 Corinthians chapter 14 niv

¹ Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.
² For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit.
³ But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.
⁴ Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.
⁵ I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.
⁶ Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?
⁷ Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?
⁸ Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?
⁹ So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.
¹⁰ Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.
¹¹ If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me.
¹² So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.
¹³ For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say.
¹⁴ For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful.
¹⁵ So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.
¹⁶ Otherwise when you are praising God in the Spirit, how can someone else, who is now put in the position of an inquirer, say "Amen" to your thanksgiving, since they do not know what you are saying?
¹⁷ You are giving thanks well enough, but no one else is edified.
¹⁸ I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.
¹⁹ But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
²⁰ Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults.
²¹ In the Law it is written: "With other tongues and through the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord."
²² Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.
²³ So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and inquirers or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind?
²⁴ But if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all,
²⁵ as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!"
²⁶ What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.
²⁷ If anyone speaks in a tongue, two?or at the most three?should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret.
²⁸ If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and to God.
²⁹ Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said.
³⁰ And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop.
³¹ For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged.
³² The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets.
³³ For God is not a God of disorder but of peace?as in all the congregations of the Lord's people.
³⁴ Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says.
³⁵ If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.
³⁶ Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached?
³⁷ If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord's command.
³⁸ But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored.
³⁹ Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.
⁴⁰ But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.

1 Corinthians chapter 14 esv

¹ Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.
² For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.
³ On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.
⁴ The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church.
⁵ Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.
⁶ Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?
⁷ If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played?
⁸ And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle?
⁹ So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air.
¹⁰ There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning,
¹¹ but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me.
¹² So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.
¹³ Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret.
¹⁴ For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful.
¹⁵ What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.
¹⁶ Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say "Amen" to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying?
¹⁷ For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up.
¹⁸ I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.
¹⁹ Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.
²⁰ Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.
²¹ In the Law it is written, "By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord."
²² Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.
²³ If, therefore, the whole church comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds?
²⁴ But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all,
²⁵ the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.
²⁶ What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.
²⁷ If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret.
²⁸ But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.
²⁹ Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said.
³⁰ If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent.
³¹ For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged,
³² and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets.
³³ For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints,
³⁴ the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says.
³⁵ If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.
³⁶ Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached?
³⁷ If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord.
³⁸ If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.
³⁹ So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.
⁴⁰ But all things should be done decently and in order.

1 Corinthians chapter 14 nlt

¹ Let love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives ? especially the ability to prophesy.
² For if you have the ability to speak in tongues, you will be talking only to God, since people won't be able to understand you. You will be speaking by the power of the Spirit, but it will all be mysterious.
³ But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them.
⁴ A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church.
⁵ I wish you could all speak in tongues, but even more I wish you could all prophesy. For prophecy is greater than speaking in tongues, unless someone interprets what you are saying so that the whole church will be strengthened.
⁶ Dear brothers and sisters, if I should come to you speaking in an unknown language, how would that help you? But if I bring you a revelation or some special knowledge or prophecy or teaching, that will be helpful.
⁷ Even lifeless instruments like the flute or the harp must play the notes clearly, or no one will recognize the melody.
⁸ And if the bugler doesn't sound a clear call, how will the soldiers know they are being called to battle?
⁹ It's the same for you. If you speak to people in words they don't understand, how will they know what you are saying? You might as well be talking into empty space.
¹⁰ There are many different languages in the world, and every language has meaning.
¹¹ But if I don't understand a language, I will be a foreigner to someone who speaks it, and the one who speaks it will be a foreigner to me.
¹² And the same is true for you. Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church.
¹³ So anyone who speaks in tongues should pray also for the ability to interpret what has been said.
¹⁴ For if I pray in tongues, my spirit is praying, but I don't understand what I am saying.
¹⁵ Well then, what shall I do? I will pray in the spirit, and I will also pray in words I understand. I will sing in the spirit, and I will also sing in words I understand.
¹⁶ For if you praise God only in the spirit, how can those who don't understand you praise God along with you? How can they join you in giving thanks when they don't understand what you are saying?
¹⁷ You will be giving thanks very well, but it won't strengthen the people who hear you.
¹⁸ I thank God that I speak in tongues more than any of you.
¹⁹ But in a church meeting I would rather speak five understandable words to help others than ten thousand words in an unknown language.
²⁰ Dear brothers and sisters, don't be childish in your understanding of these things. Be innocent as babies when it comes to evil, but be mature in understanding matters of this kind.
²¹ It is written in the Scriptures : "I will speak to my own people
through strange languages
and through the lips of foreigners.
But even then, they will not listen to me,"
says the LORD.
²² So you see that speaking in tongues is a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is for the benefit of believers, not unbelievers.
²³ Even so, if unbelievers or people who don't understand these things come into your church meeting and hear everyone speaking in an unknown language, they will think you are crazy.
²⁴ But if all of you are prophesying, and unbelievers or people who don't understand these things come into your meeting, they will be convicted of sin and judged by what you say.
²⁵ As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, "God is truly here among you."
²⁶ Well, my brothers and sisters, let's summarize. When you meet together, one will sing, another will teach, another will tell some special revelation God has given, one will speak in tongues, and another will interpret what is said. But everything that is done must strengthen all of you.
²⁷ No more than two or three should speak in tongues. They must speak one at a time, and someone must interpret what they say.
²⁸ But if no one is present who can interpret, they must be silent in your church meeting and speak in tongues to God privately.
²⁹ Let two or three people prophesy, and let the others evaluate what is said.
³⁰ But if someone is prophesying and another person receives a revelation from the Lord, the one who is speaking must stop.
³¹ In this way, all who prophesy will have a turn to speak, one after the other, so that everyone will learn and be encouraged.
³² Remember that people who prophesy are in control of their spirit and can take turns.
³³ For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God's holy people.
³⁴ Women should be silent during the church meetings. It is not proper for them to speak. They should be submissive, just as the law says.
³⁵ If they have any questions, they should ask their husbands at home, for it is improper for women to speak in church meetings.
³⁶ Or do you think God's word originated with you Corinthians? Are you the only ones to whom it was given?
³⁷ If you claim to be a prophet or think you are spiritual, you should recognize that what I am saying is a command from the Lord himself.
³⁸ But if you do not recognize this, you yourself will not be recognized.
³⁹ So, my dear brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and don't forbid speaking in tongues.
⁴⁰ But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.