◄ 1 Corinthians 14 ►
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Prophecy and Tongues 1Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. 2For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort. 4The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. 5I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified. 6Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7Even in the case of lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone recognize the tune they are playing unless the notes are distinct? 8Again, if the trumpet sounds a muffled call, who will prepare for battle? 9So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. 10Assuredly, there are many different languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. 11If, then, I do not know the meaning of someone’s language, I am a foreignera to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me. 12It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church. 13Therefore, the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. 14For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 15What then shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind. I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind. 16Otherwise, if you speak a blessing in spirit,b how can someone who is uninstructed say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? 17You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other one is not edified. 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. 21It is written in the Law: “By strange tongues and foreign lips I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to Me, says the Lord.”c 22Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers. 23So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and some who are uninstructed or some unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your minds? 24But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in while everyone is prophesying, he will be convicted and called to account by all, 25and the secrets of his heart will be made known. So he will fall facedown and worship God, proclaiming, “God is truly among you!” Orderly Worship 26What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church. 27If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or at most three, should speak in turn, and someone must interpret. 28But if there is no interpreter, he should remain silent in the church and speak only to himself and God. 29Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. 30And if a revelation comes to someone who is seated, the first speaker should stop. 31For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. 32The spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. 33For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace—as in all the churches of the saints.d 34Women are to be silent in the churches. They are not permitted to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35If they wish to inquire about something, they are to ask their own husbands at home; for it is dishonorable for a woman to speak in the church.e 36Did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only ones it has reached? 37If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is the Lord’s command. 38But if anyone ignores this, he himself will be ignored.f 39So, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner. Footnotes: 11 a Literally a barbarian; twice in this verse 16 b Or in the Spirit 21 c Isaiah 28:11–12 33 d Or of peace. As in all the churches of the saints: Thus, some translators begin the new paragraph after peace. 35 e Some manuscripts place verses 34–35 after verse 40. 38 f BYZ and TR let him be ignorant Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Corinthians 14 Summary Prophecy, Tongues, and Worship Verses 1–5 – The Greater Gift of ProphecyBelievers are told to chase after love and to desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. Tongues, unless interpreted, build up only the speaker, while prophecy strengthens, encourages, and comforts the whole church. Verses 6–12 – The Need for UnderstandingUnintelligible sounds—whether from flutes, trumpets, or tongues—do not help anyone. Spiritual gifts should deliver clear meaning so the church gains instruction and courage. Verses 13–19 – Pray to InterpretAnyone who speaks in a tongue should also pray to interpret. Paul prizes praying and singing with the spirit, yet insists that minds must be engaged so others can say “Amen.” In public he would rather offer five clear words than ten thousand in an unknown tongue. Verses 20–25 – Sign to OutsidersMaturity means grasping purpose. Uninterpreted tongues echo Isaiah’s warning and become a sign of judgment to unbelievers, while prophecy reveals hearts and leads newcomers to worship God, confessing that He is truly among them. Verses 26–33 – Rules for Orderly WorshipEach believer may bring a hymn, teaching, revelation, tongue, or interpretation, yet everything must build up. Limit tongues to two or three, each in turn, with interpretation. Two or three prophets may speak while the rest weigh what is said. The spirits of prophets are subject to prophets, for God brings peace, not confusion. Verses 34–35 – Women to Remain SilentWomen are to keep silent during the evaluation of prophecy in the assembly, choosing instead to inquire at home. This honors the pattern found in Scripture and maintains good order. Verses 36–38 – Apostolic Authority ReinforcedThe Corinthians did not originate God’s word, and they are not its sole owners. Anyone claiming to be spiritual must admit that Paul’s words are the Lord’s command; otherwise that person is to be ignored. Verses 39–40 – Final SummaryEagerly pursue prophecy and do not forbid tongues, yet conduct every part of worship properly and in order. In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul continues his discourse on spiritual gifts, focusing on the gifts of prophecy and tongues. This chapter emphasizes the importance of understanding, edification, and orderliness in the Christian worship. Historical Setting of Corinth Corinth, a rich port city humming with traders, sailors, and travelers, was a crossroads of languages and cultures. Paul founded the church around AD 50 and wrote this letter from Ephesus a few years later to address reports of division and disorder. Tongues in the First Century • Pentecost (Acts 2:4, 11) shows tongues as real languages: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” Outsiders heard “the wonders of God in our own tongues.” • Acts 10:46 and 19:6 repeat the sign, confirming Gentile and new-believer inclusion. • In Corinth the gift was common but flaunted. Paul never bans it; he insists it be interpreted so the entire body can understand. Prophecy—Strengthening, Encouragement, Comfort Prophecy delivers clear words from God that build up the church. 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 balances “Do not treat prophecies with contempt” with “test all things.” Acts 15:32 shows prophets Judas and Silas “encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.” Prophecy applies Scripture and points to Jesus without adding new doctrine. Orderly Worship: A Guardrail for Freedom 1. Everything must edify (v. 26). 2. Two-or-three rule for tongues and prophecy prevents confusion. 3. Interpretation required for tongues (v. 27). 4. Others must judge prophecy (v. 29). 5. Speakers can control themselves (v. 32). The aim is gatherings that reflect the God of peace (v. 33). Compare Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell in you…teaching and admonishing one another.” Women and Silence: Cultural and Scriptural Context First-century assemblies often mirrored synagogue seating with men and women apart. Questioning across the room would disrupt the flow. Paul’s guidance matches 1 Timothy 2:11-12’s call for quiet learning. The same letter (1 Corinthians 11:5) allows women to pray and prophesy when properly covered, so the silence here targets disorderly chatter, not all speech. Isaiah 28 in Paul’s Argument “For with mocking lips and foreign tongues He will speak to this people” (1 Corinthians 14:21, quoting Isaiah 28:11-12). Isaiah warned Israel that foreign speech signaled judgment. Paul uses the picture to show how uninterpreted tongues can alienate outsiders inside the church. Signs for Believers and Unbelievers • Tongues without interpretation = sign of judgment to unbelievers. • Prophecy = sign of God’s presence, exposing hearts and leading to worship (vv. 24-25). Paul’s Consistency Across Letters • Romans 12:6-8 places prophecy first among gifts, anchoring it to faith. • Ephesians 4:11-13 connects prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers as equippers of the saints. • 2 Corinthians 12:20 reveals Paul’s ongoing concern about discord and chaos. Archaeological Glimpse: Meeting Spaces in Corinth Excavations show Roman-style homes with atriums that could seat thirty to fifty people on stone benches around the walls. In such intimate quarters, more than one loud voice at a time would quickly cause bedlam—making Paul’s rules practical, not theoretical. Practical Takeaways for Modern Gatherings • Love must guide every gift (13:1). • Make meaning clear; avoid spiritual showmanship. • Freedom flourishes within order. • Speak with newcomers in mind so they can declare, “God is really among you!” (v. 25). • Honor biblical roles while affirming equal worth and shared mission. Further Scripture Connections • Numbers 11:29 – Moses longs that “all the LORD’s people were prophets,” echoing Paul’s desire (v. 5). • Joel 2:28 – Promise of widespread prophetic outpouring, fulfilled at Pentecost and continuing in Corinth. • Matthew 18:20 – “For where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them,” matching Paul’s two-or-three guideline. • Hebrews 10:24-25 – Gather to stir love and good deeds. • Revelation 19:10 – “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy,” keeping Christ at the center of every gift. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 13 The preceding chapter emphasizes love as the greatest gift and the foundation for all spiritual gifts. Ephesians 4:11-13 Discusses the purpose of spiritual gifts in equipping the saints for the work of ministry and building up the body of Christ. Romans 12:6-8 Highlights the diversity of spiritual gifts and the importance of using them according to the grace given to us. Teaching Points The Priority of Love and Edification Paul begins by urging believers to pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:1). Love should be the guiding principle in the exercise of spiritual gifts. The Role of Tongues and Prophecy Paul contrasts speaking in tongues with prophecy, stating, For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:2). Prophecy, however, is for the edification, encouragement, and comfort of the church (1 Corinthians 14:3). Order in Worship Paul emphasizes the need for order in worship, stating, For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). He provides guidelines for orderly worship, including the proper use of tongues and prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:26-33). The Importance of Understanding Paul stresses that understanding is crucial for edification, saying, But in the church, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue (1 Corinthians 14:19). Women in the Church Paul addresses the role of women in the church, instructing them to remain silent in the churches and to be in submission, as the law says (1 Corinthians 14:34-35). This passage has been the subject of much debate and interpretation within the church. Practical Applications Seek to Edify Others When exercising spiritual gifts, prioritize the edification of the church over personal expression. Pursue Clarity and Understanding Strive for clarity in communication within the church to ensure that all members are edified and encouraged. Maintain Order in Worship Ensure that worship services are conducted in an orderly manner that reflects the peace and character of God. Value Prophecy Encourage the use of prophecy within the church as a means of building up the body of Christ. People 1. Paul The apostle Paul is the author of 1 Corinthians, and he addresses the Corinthian church in this chapter. He provides guidance on the use of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and speaking in tongues, within the church assembly. Paul emphasizes the importance of edification, order, and understanding in worship. 2. Prophets Individuals in the church who have the gift of prophecy. Paul encourages the Corinthians to desire the gift of prophecy because it edifies the church. He states, "But the one who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort" (1 Corinthians 14:3). The Greek term used here is "προφητεύω" (prophēteuō), meaning to speak forth by divine inspiration. 3. Tongue Speakers Members of the church who have the gift of speaking in tongues. Paul discusses the role of speaking in tongues, noting that it is a gift meant for personal edification unless interpreted for the congregation. He writes, "For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit" (1 Corinthians 14:2). The Greek word for tongues is "γλῶσσα" (glōssa), which can mean language or dialect. 4. Interpreters Those who have the ability to interpret tongues. Paul stresses the necessity of interpretation for the edification of the church, saying, "If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or at most three, should speak in turn, and someone must interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:27). The Greek term for interpret is "διερμηνεύω" (diermēneuō), meaning to explain or translate. 5. Unbelievers People who do not believe in the Christian faith. Paul mentions unbelievers in the context of orderly worship, explaining that if they enter a service where everyone is speaking in tongues, they might think the congregation is out of their minds. He writes, "So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and some who are uninstructed or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your minds?" (1 Corinthians 14:23). 6. Women Paul addresses women in the context of maintaining order in the church. He instructs them to remain silent in the churches, which has been a subject of much debate and interpretation. He states, "As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says" (1 Corinthians 14:33-34). The Greek word for silent is "σιγάω" (sigaō), meaning to keep silent or hold one's peace. Places 1 Corinthians 14 primarily focuses on the use of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and speaking in tongues, within the church. However, it does not specifically mention geographical places. Instead, it addresses the practices and order within the church community. If you are looking for a list of places mentioned in the chapter, there are none explicitly named. The chapter is more concerned with the conduct and edification of the church body rather than specific locations. If you have any other questions or need further clarification on the chapter's themes or teachings, feel free to ask! Events 1. Pursuit of Love and Spiritual Gifts Paul begins by urging believers to "Pursue love, and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy" (1 Corinthians 14:1). The Greek word for "pursue" (διώκετε, diōkete) implies an active and continuous effort, emphasizing the importance of love as the foundation for exercising spiritual gifts. 2. Speaking in Tongues vs. Prophecy Paul contrasts speaking in tongues with prophecy, stating, "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit" (1 Corinthians 14:2). The emphasis is on the edification of the church, as prophecy is intelligible and beneficial to all. 3. Edification of the Church The apostle highlights the purpose of spiritual gifts: "But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort" (1 Corinthians 14:3). The Greek term for "edification" (οἰκοδομή, oikodomē) refers to building up the church community. 4. Preference for Prophecy Paul expresses a preference for prophecy over tongues unless interpretation is provided: "I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy" (1 Corinthians 14:5). This underscores the communal benefit of prophecy. 5. The Role of Interpretation The necessity of interpretation for tongues is emphasized: "Unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified" (1 Corinthians 14:5). Interpretation ensures that the message is understood and beneficial to the congregation. 6. Analogy of Musical Instruments Paul uses the analogy of musical instruments to illustrate the need for clarity: "If the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?" (1 Corinthians 14:8). This highlights the importance of clear communication in the church. 7. Praying and Singing with Understanding Paul advises praying and singing with both the spirit and the mind: "I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind" (1 Corinthians 14:15). This balance ensures personal edification and communal understanding. 8. Orderly Worship Paul instructs on maintaining order in worship: "For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace" (1 Corinthians 14:33). The Greek word for "disorder" (ἀκαταστασίας, akatastasias) suggests confusion or chaos, which is contrary to God's nature. 9. Women in the Church Paul addresses the role of women in the church, stating, "Women are to be silent in the churches" (1 Corinthians 14:34). This passage has been interpreted in various ways, often considering the cultural context of the Corinthian church. 10. Conclusion and Exhortation Paul concludes with an exhortation to desire prophecy and not forbid speaking in tongues, but to ensure everything is done "decently and in order" (1 Corinthians 14:40). The Greek word for "order" (τάξις, taxis) implies a structured and harmonious arrangement. Lessons from 1 Corinthians 14 1. Pursue Love Above All In 1 Corinthians 14:1, Paul encourages us to "pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy." Love is the foundation of all spiritual gifts and should be our primary pursuit. When love is our guiding principle, our actions and words reflect the heart of Christ, drawing others closer to Him. 2. The Power of Prophecy Prophecy is highlighted as a gift that builds up the church. As Paul states, "the one who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort" (1 Corinthians 14:3). This gift allows us to speak God's truth into the lives of others, providing guidance and hope that aligns with His Word. 3. The Importance of Clarity Paul emphasizes the need for clear communication in the church. "If the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?" (1 Corinthians 14:8). Whether in teaching, preaching, or everyday conversations, clarity ensures that the message of the Gospel is understood and embraced. 4. Building Up the Church The chapter repeatedly stresses the importance of edifying the church. "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, strive to excel in those that build up the church" (1 Corinthians 14:12). Our focus should be on using our gifts to strengthen and encourage the body of Christ, fostering unity and growth. 5. The Role of Tongues While speaking in tongues is a spiritual gift, Paul advises that it should be used appropriately. "If I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful" (1 Corinthians 14:14). Tongues should be accompanied by interpretation to ensure that the entire congregation benefits and is edified. 6. Order in Worship Paul provides guidance on maintaining order during worship services. "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace" (1 Corinthians 14:33). A structured and orderly service allows for a more meaningful and impactful worship experience, where everyone can participate and be uplifted. 7. The Value of Understanding Understanding is crucial in worship and teaching. "I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue" (1 Corinthians 14:19). Our goal should be to communicate God's truth in a way that is accessible and transformative for all who hear it. 8. The Role of Women in Worship Paul addresses the role of women in the church, encouraging them to learn in a respectful and orderly manner. "Let the women keep silent in the churches" (1 Corinthians 14:34) is often discussed, but the emphasis is on maintaining order and respect within the worship setting, reflecting the cultural context of the time. 9. The Spirit of Prophets "The spirits of prophets are subject to prophets" (1 Corinthians 14:32). This teaches us that spiritual gifts should be exercised with self-control and accountability. We are called to use our gifts responsibly, ensuring they align with Scripture and the edification of the church. 10. Everything Done in Love Finally, Paul concludes with a reminder that all things should be done in love. "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner" (1 Corinthians 14:40). Love is the driving force behind our actions, ensuring that our worship and service reflect the character of Christ and draw others to Him. Topics 1. Pursuit of Love and Spiritual Gifts Paul begins by urging believers to "Pursue love, and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy" (1 Corinthians 14:1). The Greek word for "pursue" (διώκετε, diōkete) implies an active and continuous effort, emphasizing the importance of love as the foundation for exercising spiritual gifts. 2. Prophecy and Tongues The chapter contrasts the gift of prophecy with speaking in tongues. Paul states, "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit" (1 Corinthians 14:2). The Greek term for "mysteries" (μυστήρια, mystēria) suggests hidden truths that require divine revelation. 3. Edification of the Church Paul emphasizes that spiritual gifts should edify the church: "But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort" (1 Corinthians 14:3). The Greek word for "edification" (οἰκοδομή, oikodomē) refers to building up or strengthening the community of believers. 4. The Superiority of Prophecy Paul argues for the superiority of prophecy over tongues unless there is interpretation: "The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified" (1 Corinthians 14:5). 5. Understanding and Clarity in Worship Paul stresses the importance of understanding in worship: "If I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?" (1 Corinthians 14:6). The emphasis is on clarity and comprehension for the benefit of the congregation. 6. Order in Worship Paul provides guidelines for orderly worship, stating, "For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace" (1 Corinthians 14:33). The Greek word for "disorder" (ἀκαταστασίας, akatastasias) implies confusion or chaos, which is contrary to God's nature. 7. Role of Women in the Church Paul addresses the role of women in the church, instructing them to "remain silent in the churches" (1 Corinthians 14:34). This passage has been the subject of much debate, with interpretations varying based on cultural and historical context. 8. Prophetic Accountability Paul advises that "two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said" (1 Corinthians 14:29). This ensures that prophetic messages are evaluated for their truth and alignment with Scripture. 9. Conclusion and Exhortation Paul concludes with an exhortation to "be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues" (1 Corinthians 14:39), while maintaining order: "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner" (1 Corinthians 14:40). The Greek word for "orderly" (εὐσχημόνως, euschēmonōs) suggests decorum and propriety in worship practices. Themes 1. The Superiority of Prophecy over Tongues In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul emphasizes the importance of prophecy over speaking in tongues. He argues that prophecy is more beneficial for the church because it edifies, encourages, and comforts believers. "For the one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit. But the one who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort" (1 Corinthians 14:2-3). The Greek word for "edification" is "οἰκοδομή" (oikodomē), which means building up or strengthening. 2. The Importance of Understanding in Worship Paul stresses that worship should be intelligible so that the whole church can be edified. He states, "So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air" (1 Corinthians 14:9). The Greek term "νοῦς" (nous), meaning mind or understanding, is crucial here, as Paul advocates for worship that engages the mind. 3. Orderly Worship The chapter underscores the need for order in worship services. Paul instructs that everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way: "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner" (1 Corinthians 14:40). The Greek word "τάξις" (taxis) refers to arrangement or order, highlighting the importance of structure in worship. 4. The Role of Women in the Church Paul addresses the role of women in the church, instructing them to remain silent during the assembly: "As in all the congregations of the saints, women are to be silent in the churches. They are not permitted to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says" (1 Corinthians 14:33-34). The Greek word "σιγάω" (sigaō) means to keep silent or hold one's peace, reflecting the cultural context of the time. 5. The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts Spiritual gifts are given for the edification of the church. Paul writes, "Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church" (1 Corinthians 14:12). The Greek word "ζηλόω" (zēloō) means to be zealous or eager, indicating the desire to use gifts for the common good. 6. The Significance of Tongues as a Sign Paul explains that speaking in tongues serves as a sign for unbelievers, not believers: "Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers, but for unbelievers" (1 Corinthians 14:22). The Greek word "σημεῖον" (sēmeion) means sign or miracle, suggesting that tongues are meant to capture the attention of those outside the faith. 7. Prophecy as a Means of Conviction and Conversion Prophecy has the power to convict and convert unbelievers who enter the church: "But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in while everyone is prophesying, he will be convicted and called to account by all" (1 Corinthians 14:24). The Greek word "ἐλέγχω" (elegchō) means to convict or reprove, highlighting the transformative power of prophecy. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that seeks to edify and build up the church through the use of spiritual gifts. Ask God for wisdom and discernment in understanding and applying the teachings of 1 Corinthians 14. Pray for unity and order within the church, reflecting the peace of God. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in exercising spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, for the encouragement and strengthening of the church. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can speaking in tongues (1 Corinthians 14:2) be validated if it has no observable or scientific basis? 2. Why does Paul claim tongues are a sign for unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22), yet many modern churches practice them mostly among believers? 3. If prophecy is meant to edify the whole church (1 Corinthians 14:3–4), why do different denominations disagree on prophetic interpretations? 4. How should we reconcile Paul’s instruction for women to remain silent in church (1 Corinthians 14:34–35) with modern views on gender equality? 5. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence outside of the Bible that confirms these supernatural practices in the early church (1 Corinthians 14)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's discussion of tongues and prophecy shape your understanding of spiritual gifts? 2. How can we apply the principle of edification in the exercise of our individual spiritual gifts today? 3. What role does understanding play in your spiritual life and in your interaction with others? 4. How do Paul's guidelines on orderly worship resonate with your experience of church services? 5. In what ways does Paul's instruction about women in the church challenge or affirm your understanding of women's roles in church? 6. How do you perceive the balance between personal spiritual experiences and communal edification? 7. Why do you think Paul emphasizes maturity in thinking about spiritual gifts? 8. How can we promote understanding and orderliness in our worship services today? 9. How do Paul's teachings on tongues and prophecy apply to modern day practices in the church? 10. How can we ensure that our pursuit of spiritual gifts leads to the edification of the church rather than self-promotion? 11. How does the principle of doing everything for edification affect your approach to Christian service? 12. How can you apply the principles from this chapter to your own use of spiritual gifts? 13. How do you balance personal spiritual experiences with communal edification in your own life? 14. How does Paul's emphasis on understanding and edification inform your approach to Christian worship? 15. How do Paul's teachings about orderliness in worship challenge or affirm your experiences in the Church? 16. How might Paul's instructions about the role of women in the Church be applied in today's context? 17. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship services edify everyone present? 18. What does it mean to be 'mature in thinking' about spiritual gifts in our current context? 19. In what ways do you feel called to edify others in your Christian community? 20. How can the guidelines provided in this chapter be a blueprint for harmonious and edifying worship in our time? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions