Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. New Living Translation But in a church meeting I would rather speak five understandable words to help others than ten thousand words in an unknown language. English Standard Version Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Berean Standard Bible But in the church, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. Berean Literal Bible But in the church, I wish to speak five words with my mind, so that also I might instruct others, rather than myriads of words in a tongue. King James Bible 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. New King James Version 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. New American Standard Bible nevertheless, in church I prefer to speak five words with my mind so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. NASB 1995 however, in the church I desire to speak five words with my mind so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. NASB 1977 however, in the church I desire to speak five words with my mind, that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. Legacy Standard Bible however, in the church I desire to speak five words with my mind so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. Amplified Bible nevertheless, in public worship I would rather say five understandable words in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue [which others cannot understand]. Berean Annotated Bible But in the church {ekklēsia}, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue (language). Christian Standard Bible yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, in order to teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Holman Christian Standard Bible yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, in order to teach others also, than 10,000 words in another language. American Standard Version howbeit in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Contemporary English Version But words that make sense can help the church. This is why in church I would rather speak five words that make sense than to speak 10,000 words in a language that others don't know. English Revised Version howbeit in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. GOD'S WORD® Translation Yet, in order to teach others in church, I would rather say five words that can be understood than ten thousand words in another language. Good News Translation But in church worship I would rather speak five words that can be understood, in order to teach others, than speak thousands of words in strange tongues. International Standard Version But in church I would rather speak five words with my mind to instruct others than 10,000 words in a foreign language. NET Bible but in the church I want to speak five words with my mind to instruct others, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. New Heart English Bible However in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might instruct others also, than ten thousand words in another language. Webster's Bible Translation Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown language. Weymouth New Testament but in the Church I would rather speak five words with my understanding--so as to instruct others also--than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBut in the church, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. World English Bible However, in the assembly I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might instruct others also, than ten thousand words in another language. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionbut I wish to speak five words in an assembly through my understanding, that I also may instruct others, rather than myriads of words in an [unknown] tongue. Berean Literal Bible But in the church, I wish to speak five words with my mind, so that also I might instruct others, rather than myriads of words in a tongue. Young's Literal Translation but in an assembly I wish to speak five words through my understanding, that others also I may instruct, rather than myriads of words in an unknown tongue. Smith's Literal Translation But in the church, I will to speak five words by my mind, that I might also sound in the ears of others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may instruct others also; than ten thousand words in a tongue. Catholic Public Domain Version But in the Church, I prefer to speak five words from my mind, so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in tongues. New American Bible but in the church I would rather speak five words with my mind, so as to instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. New Revised Standard Version nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind, in order to instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleBut in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, so that I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Aramaic Bible in Plain English But in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may instruct others also, than 10,000 words in languages. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentYet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may instruct others, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Godbey New Testament but I would rather speak five words in the church with my understanding, so that I may indeed teach others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Haweis New Testament but in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may instruct others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Mace New Testament yet in the church I had rather speak five words that convey my meaning to the instruction of others, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Weymouth New Testament but in the Church I would rather speak five words with my understanding--so as to instruct others also--than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Worrell New Testament but in an assembly I prefer to speak five words with my understanding, that I may instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Worsley New Testament But in a public assembly I had rather speak five words to be understood, that I may instruct others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Prophecy and Tongues…18I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19But in the church, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.… Cross References But in the church, Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. / Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 1 Timothy 3:15 in case I am delayed, so that you will know how each one must conduct himself in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. I would rather speak five coherent words Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Proverbs 15:23 A man takes joy in a fitting reply—and how good is a timely word! Ecclesiastes 12:10 The Teacher searched to find delightful sayings and to record accurate words of truth. to instruct others Romans 15:14 I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, brimming with knowledge, and able to instruct one another. Colossians 1:28 We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others as well. than ten thousand words in a tongue. Acts 2:8-11 How is it then that each of us hears them in his own native language? / Parthians, Medes, and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, / Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome, … Isaiah 28:11-12 Indeed, with mocking lips and foreign tongues, He will speak to this people / to whom He has said: “This is the place of rest, let the weary rest; this is the place of repose.” But they would not listen. Genesis 11:7-9 Come, let Us go down and confuse their language, so that they will not understand one another’s speech.” / So the LORD scattered them from there over the face of all the earth, and they stopped building the city. / That is why it is called Babel, for there the LORD confused the language of the whole world, and from that place the LORD scattered them over the face of all the earth. Acts 2:4-11 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. / Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. / And when this sound rang out, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking his own language. … Acts 19:6 And when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. 1 Corinthians 12:10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in various tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 1 Corinthians 13:1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. Treasury of Scripture 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. in the. 1 Corinthians 14:4,21,22 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church… Jump to Previous Assembly Better Church Clear Desire Five Howbeit However Instruct Intelligible Language Mind Myriads Nevertheless Order Others Profit Rather Sense Speak Strange Teach Ten Thousand Tongue Understanding Unknown Use Voice Wish WordsJump to Next Assembly Better Church Clear Desire Five Howbeit However Instruct Intelligible Language Mind Myriads Nevertheless Order Others Profit Rather Sense Speak Strange Teach Ten Thousand Tongue Understanding Unknown Use Voice Wish Words1 Corinthians 14 1. Prophecy is commended,2. and preferred before speaking in tongues, 6. by a comparison drawn from musical instruments. 12. Both must be referred to edification, 22. as to their true and proper end. 26. The true use of each is taught, 27. and the abuse rebuked. 34. Women in the churches. But in the church The term "church" here refers to the assembly of believers, the body of Christ gathered for worship and edification. In the early Christian context, the church was often a small group meeting in homes. The focus is on communal worship and the edification of the body, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and instruction within the community of believers. I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. Paul is emphasizing the importance of intelligibility in worship for the edification of the church. 2. The Church in Corinth A diverse and spiritually gifted congregation facing issues of disorder and misunderstanding regarding spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of tongues. 3. Speaking in Tongues A spiritual gift that was causing division and confusion in the Corinthian church. Paul addresses its proper use and the need for interpretation. 4. Edification of the Church A central theme in this passage, highlighting the importance of building up the church through understandable teaching. 5. Instruction and Understanding Paul prioritizes clear communication that leads to understanding and growth in the faith community. Teaching Points The Priority of EdificationIn the church setting, communication should aim to build up and instruct others. This requires clarity and understanding. The Role of Spiritual Gifts Spiritual gifts are given for the common good. They should be exercised in a way that benefits the entire congregation, not just the individual. The Importance of Understanding Effective teaching in the church requires that the message be understandable. This ensures that all members can grow in their faith. Balancing Spiritual Experience with Order While spiritual experiences are valuable, they should not disrupt the order and edification of the church community. The Value of Few Words with Meaning A few well-chosen words that instruct and edify are more valuable than many words that do not contribute to understanding. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 14:19?2. Why does Paul prefer "five intelligible words" over "ten thousand words in a tongue"? 3. How can we ensure our words edify others in church settings? 4. What does 1 Corinthians 14:19 teach about the importance of understanding in worship? 5. How does this verse connect with the Great Commission's call to teach? 6. In what ways can we prioritize clarity in our personal and group Bible studies? 7. Why does Paul emphasize speaking five intelligible words over ten thousand in a tongue in 1 Corinthians 14:19? 8. How does 1 Corinthians 14:19 challenge the practice of speaking in tongues in modern churches? 9. What does 1 Corinthians 14:19 suggest about the importance of understanding in worship? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 14? 11. Is speaking in tongues required for Christian salvation? 12. When will the gift of tongues end? 13. Why does Paul claim tongues are a sign for unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22), yet many modern churches practice them mostly among believers? 14. What is glossolalia? What Does 1 Corinthians 14:19 Mean But in the church- The setting matters. Paul is talking about the gathered body (see 1 Corinthians 11:18; Hebrews 10:24-25). - Public worship is for mutual edification; anything done there must build everyone up, not just the individual (Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 14:26). - The church is God’s household (1 Timothy 3:15). What benefits the family comes first. I would rather - Paul’s personal preference reflects the Spirit-guided priority he wants the whole congregation to adopt (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17). - He chooses what is profitable over what is merely permissible (1 Corinthians 10:23; 14:1). - This “rather” shows discernment: every gift is good, but some uses of gifts serve the moment better than others (Romans 12:6-8). speak five coherent words - “Five” underscores brevity; “coherent” stresses clarity. Together they highlight intelligibility (Proverbs 25:11; Colossians 4:6). - God values understandable speech because truth must be grasped to transform (Nehemiah 8:8; 2 Timothy 2:15). - Even a handful of clear words can guide, comfort, and correct—like the simple gospel phrase “Jesus Christ is Lord” (Romans 10:9). to instruct others - Teaching is central to discipleship (Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 4:11-12). - The aim is growth: “we proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ” (Colossians 1:28). - Love makes instruction self-giving, not self-displaying (1 Corinthians 13:1-2). than ten thousand words in a tongue - Tongues are a real gift (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:10), yet without interpretation they remain unintelligible to the body (1 Corinthians 14:2, 23). - “Ten thousand” (the highest common Greek number) magnifies how useless even vast quantities of sound are if they do not edify (Ecclesiastes 5:2; 1 Corinthians 13:8-10). - Paul’s contrast is not anti-tongues; it is pro-edification. Spiritual experiences must submit to love’s rule for the good of all (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). summary Paul insists that in gathered worship clarity outweighs spectacle. Five plain words that teach and build up the church carry more eternal weight than an avalanche of unknown syllables. The measure of any utterance is not its impressiveness but its power to strengthen Christ’s body in truth and love. Verse 19. - Yet in the Church. In any public assembly of Christians. Five words. No disparagement of the prominence given to glossolaly could be more emphatic. "Rather half of ten of the edifying sort than a thousand times ten of the other" (Besser). That... I might [may] teach others also. The word rendered "teach" is rather instruct, the root of our "catechize" (Luke 1:4; Romans 2:8; Galatians 6:6, etc.).Parallel Commentaries ... Greek Butἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. in ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [the] church, ἐκκλησίᾳ (ekklēsia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular Strong's 1577: From a compound of ek and a derivative of kaleo; a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation. I would rather θέλω (thelō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular Strong's 2309: To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. speak λαλῆσαι (lalēsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active Strong's 2980: A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words. five πέντε (pente) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 4002: Five. A primary number; 'five'. coherent νοΐ (noi) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 3563: Probably from the base of ginosko; the intellect, i.e. Mind; by implication, meaning. words λόγους (logous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. to ἵνα (hina) Conjunction Strong's 2443: In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. instruct κατηχήσω (katēchēsō) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular Strong's 2727: To instruct orally, teach, inform. From kata and echos; to sound down into the ears, i.e. to indoctrinate or to apprise of. others ἄλλους (allous) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 243: Other, another (of more than two), different. A primary word; 'else, ' i.e. Different. than ἢ (ē) Conjunction Strong's 2228: Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. ten thousand μυρίους (myrious) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 3463: Plural of an apparently primary word; ten thousand; by extension, innumerably many. words λόγους (logous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. in ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. a tongue. γλώσσῃ (glōssē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular Strong's 1100: The tongue; by implication, a language. Links 1 Corinthians 14:19 NIV1 Corinthians 14:19 NLT 1 Corinthians 14:19 ESV 1 Corinthians 14:19 NASB 1 Corinthians 14:19 KJV 1 Corinthians 14:19 BibleApps.com 1 Corinthians 14:19 Biblia Paralela 1 Corinthians 14:19 Chinese Bible 1 Corinthians 14:19 French Bible 1 Corinthians 14:19 Catholic Bible NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 14:19 However in the assembly I would rather (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) |
    |