1 Corinthians 14:24

But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in while everyone is prophesying, he will be convicted and called to account by all,

Study Bible

But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in
This phrase introduces a hypothetical scenario where an "unbeliever" or "uninstructed person" enters a Christian assembly. The Greek word for "unbeliever" is "ἄπιστος" (apistos), which refers to someone who does not have faith in Christ. The "uninstructed person" is translated from "ἰδιώτης" (idiōtēs), meaning someone who is unlearned or lacks understanding of the faith. Historically, the early church was a place of teaching and conversion, and this phrase sets the stage for the transformative power of prophecy within the community.

while everyone is prophesying
The act of "prophesying" here is derived from the Greek "προφητεύω" (prophēteuō), which means to speak forth by divine inspiration. In the early church, prophecy was a gift of the Holy Spirit, intended for edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3). This communal act of prophesying suggests a vibrant, Spirit-filled assembly where the truth of God is being declared. Historically, prophecy served as a sign of God's active presence among His people, and it was a means of revealing His will and truth to both believers and non-believers.

he will be convicted
The word "convicted" comes from the Greek "ἐλέγχω" (elegchō), which means to expose, reprove, or convince. This conviction is not merely an intellectual acknowledgment but a deep, spiritual realization of one's sin and need for God. In the context of the early church, this conviction was seen as the work of the Holy Spirit, who uses the truth of God's word to pierce the heart of the listener, leading them to repentance and faith.

and called to account by all
The phrase "called to account" is translated from "ἀνακρίνω" (anakrinō), meaning to examine or judge. This implies a communal responsibility where the entire assembly, through the act of prophesying, participates in revealing the truth to the unbeliever or uninstructed person. In the historical context of the Corinthian church, this communal aspect underscores the unity and shared mission of the body of Christ to witness and testify to the truth of the Gospel. The phrase suggests that the presence and power of God in the assembly are so evident that the unbeliever is compelled to acknowledge the truth and reality of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with guidance on spiritual gifts and orderly worship.

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and spiritually gifted congregation facing issues of disorder and misunderstanding regarding spiritual gifts.

3. Unbeliever
A person who does not yet have faith in Christ, potentially visiting the church gathering.

4. Uninstructed Person
Someone who may be a believer but lacks understanding or instruction in spiritual matters.

5. Prophecy
A spiritual gift involving speaking forth God's message, intended for edification, encouragement, and comfort.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prophecy in Conviction
Prophecy, when exercised in a church setting, has the power to convict and reveal the secrets of the heart, leading to repentance and faith.

Orderly Worship and Its Impact
Orderly worship, where prophecy is prioritized over tongues, can lead to the edification of the church and the conversion of unbelievers.

The Role of the Church in Evangelism
The church gathering should be a place where unbelievers can encounter the truth of the Gospel through the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy.

Understanding and Instruction in Spiritual Gifts
Believers should seek understanding and instruction in spiritual gifts to use them effectively for the building up of the church.

The Importance of Accountability
Prophecy brings accountability, as it calls individuals to account before God, prompting self-examination and transformation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of prophecy in a church service impact both believers and unbelievers, according to 1 Corinthians 14:24?

2. In what ways can the church ensure that its worship services are welcoming and convicting to unbelievers?

3. How does the role of prophecy in the church today compare to its role in the early church, as described in 1 Corinthians 14?

4. What steps can believers take to grow in their understanding and use of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy?

5. How can the church balance the exercise of spiritual gifts with the need for orderly worship, as instructed by Paul in 1 Corinthians 14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2
The event of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to speak in various tongues, leading to the conviction and conversion of many.

1 Corinthians 12
Discusses the variety of spiritual gifts, including prophecy, and their purpose for the common good.

Hebrews 4:12
Describes the Word of God as living and active, able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart, similar to the convicting power of prophecy.

John 16:8
Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit's role in convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment.

1 Thessalonians 5:20-21
Encourages believers not to despise prophecies but to test everything, holding on to what is good.