Introduction

First Corinthians 14 applies the love principle to the gifts of prophecy and tongues. Paul values both but emphasizes building up the church. Intelligible communication edifies; unintelligible speech—however spiritual—does not.

Prophecy Over Tongues (verses 1-19)

Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. Whoever speaks in a tongue speaks not to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. But whoever prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging, and comfort. Those who speak in a tongue edify themselves, but those who prophesy edify the church. Paul would like them all to speak in tongues, but he would rather they prophesy. Those who prophesy are greater than those who speak in tongues, unless someone interprets so the church may be edified.

If Paul comes speaking in tongues, what good will he be unless he brings revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or instruction? Even lifeless instruments distinguish notes—if they don't, how will anyone know what tune is being played? So unless you speak intelligible words, how will anyone know what you're saying? You'll just be speaking into the air. In the church Paul would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.

• Prophecy Preferred: It directly edifies the church
• Tongues Without Interpretation: Edify only the speaker
• Intelligibility Matters: Communication requires understanding

Order in Worship (verses 20-40)

Stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in thinking be adults. Tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy is not for unbelievers but for believers. If unbelievers come in and everyone speaks in tongues, won't they say you are out of your mind? But if an unbeliever comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted by all and brought to judgment—the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. They will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!"

What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each has a hymn, a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Everything must be done for the strengthening of the church. If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church. Two or three prophets should speak, and others should weigh carefully what is said. The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.

Women should remain silent in the churches. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their husbands at home. Did the word of God originate with you? If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what Paul is writing is the Lord's command. Those who ignore this will themselves be ignored. Therefore, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.

Key Takeaways

• Edification Priority: Building up others takes precedence
• Intelligibility Required: Communication must be understood
• Order, Not Chaos: God is not a God of disorder
• Prophecy Welcome: Eagerly desire it; don't forbid tongues

Reflection Questions

• Do your contributions in church build up others or just yourself?
• How do you balance spiritual expression with order in worship?
• What does it look like for everything to be done in a fitting and orderly way?