1 Corinthians 14

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 14 of 16

¹ Pursue love, and seek eagerly the spiritual things, but rather that you may prophesy.

² For the one speaking in a language does not speak to men, but to God; for no one hears, but in spirit he speaks mysteries.

³ But the one prophesying to men speaks for building up, and encouragement, and comfort.

⁴ The one speaking in a langusge builds himself up, but he prophesying builds up an assembly.

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Chapter Summary

1 Prophecy is commended 2, 3, 4 and preferred before speaking with tongues. 12 Both must be referred to building up 22 as to their true end. 34 Women are forbidden to speak in the assembly.

Key Greek Words

προφητεύω prophesy G4395

γλῶσσα language, tongue G1100

ἐκκλησία assembly G1577

οἰκοδομή building up G3619

διερμηνεύω interpret G1329

εἰρήνη peace G1515

People & Context

Paul

The apostle directing the assembly, ranking prophecy above tongues and ordering worship; his words are commandments of the Lord (vv.1-40)

God

Not a God of confusion but of peace; revealed as truly present when the unbeliever falls and worships (vv.25,33)

Timeline

Prophecy Over Tongues

Paul encourages the pursuit of spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, arguing that speaking in untranslated languages only builds up the individual, whereas prophecy builds up, encourages, and comforts the entire assembly [57-59].

1 Corinthians 14:1-25

Order in Assembly Gatherings

Paul establishes rules for orderly worship, commanding that speakers of languages have interpreters, prophets speak one by one, and that God is a God of peace, not confusion [60-62].

1 Corinthians 14:26-40

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