1 Corinthians 14:28

But if there is no interpreter, he should remain silent in the church and speak only to himself and God.

Study Bible

But if there is no interpreter
The phrase "no interpreter" is crucial in understanding the orderly conduct Paul advocates for in the church. The Greek word for "interpreter" is "hermēneutēs," which implies someone who can translate or explain the meaning of tongues. In the early church, the gift of tongues was often a sign of the Holy Spirit's presence, but without interpretation, it could lead to confusion. Paul emphasizes the need for clarity and edification in worship, underscoring that spiritual gifts should build up the church, not create disorder.

he should remain silent in the church
The directive to "remain silent" uses the Greek word "sigatō," which means to hold one's peace or refrain from speaking. This instruction is not a prohibition against speaking in tongues but a call for self-control and discernment. In the context of worship, silence is sometimes more edifying than speech, especially when the latter cannot be understood. This reflects a broader biblical principle that worship should be conducted in a manner that is intelligible and beneficial to all present.

and speak only to himself and God
The phrase "speak only to himself and God" highlights the personal and intimate nature of prayer and communication with God. The Greek word "laleō" for "speak" suggests a continuous or habitual action, indicating that even if public expression is not possible, private communion with God remains vital. This underscores the personal aspect of faith, where one's spiritual life is not solely dependent on public expressions but is deeply rooted in personal devotion and prayer. Paul acknowledges the value of speaking in tongues as a form of personal edification, even when it is not shared with the congregation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with instructions on orderly worship.

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and spiritually gifted congregation facing issues of disorder and confusion in worship practices.

3. Tongue Speakers
Individuals in the Corinthian church who possessed the gift of speaking in tongues, a spiritual gift that required interpretation for edification.

4. Interpreters
Those with the spiritual gift to interpret tongues, ensuring that the message is understood by the congregation.

5. God
The ultimate audience of worship, emphasizing the need for order and clarity in communication with Him.

Teaching Points

Order in Worship
The importance of maintaining order in worship services to ensure that all are edified and God is glorified.

Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts are given for the edification of the church, not for personal display or confusion.

Role of Interpretation
Interpretation is crucial when tongues are spoken in a congregational setting to ensure the message is understood and beneficial.

Personal Edification
When there is no interpreter, speaking in tongues should be a private matter between the individual and God, focusing on personal edification.

Respect for Congregational Unity
Believers should prioritize the unity and understanding of the congregation over individual expression.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction in 1 Corinthians 14:28 reflect the broader theme of order in worship found throughout 1 Corinthians 14?

2. In what ways can the principle of seeking edification for the church over personal expression be applied in modern worship settings?

3. How does the role of interpreters in the early church compare to the roles of various ministry leaders today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our spiritual gifts are used for the edification of the church?

5. How can we balance the personal and communal aspects of our spiritual lives, as suggested by the instruction to speak to oneself and God when there is no interpreter?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 12:10
Discusses the spiritual gifts, including speaking in tongues and interpretation, highlighting their purpose for the common good.

1 Corinthians 14:33
Emphasizes that God is not a God of disorder but of peace, reinforcing the need for orderly worship.

Acts 2:4-11
Describes the event of Pentecost where the apostles spoke in tongues, and people from various nations understood them, illustrating the purpose of tongues for edification.

Romans 8:26-27
Speaks of the Spirit interceding for us, which can relate to the personal aspect of speaking to oneself and God when there is no interpreter.