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Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Corinthians 14:6–14. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In this paragraph he goes on to show how vain a thing the ostentation of speaking unknown and unintelligible language must be. It was altogether unedifying and unprofitable (Co1 14:6): If I come to you speaking with tongues, what will it profit you, unless I speak to you by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? It would signify nothing to utter any of these in an unknown tongue. An apostle, with all his furniture, could not edify, unless he spoke to the capacity of his hearers. New revelations, the most clear explications of old ones, the most instructive discourses in themselves, would be unprofitable in a language not understood. Nay, interpretations of scripture made in an unknown tongue would need to be interpreted over again, before they could be of any use.
I.He illustrates this by several allusions.
1.To a pipe and a harp playing always in one tone. Of what use can this be to those who are dancing? If there be no distinction of sounds, how should they order their steps or motions? Unintelligible language is like piping or harping without distinction of sounds: it gives no more direction how a man should order his conversation than a pipe with but one stop or a harp with but one string can direct a dancer how he should order his steps, Co1 14:7.
2.To a trumpet giving an uncertain sound, adēlon phōnēn, a sound not manifest; either not the proper sound for the purpose, or not distinct enough to be discerned from every other sound. If, instead of sounding on onset, it sounded a retreat, or sounded one knew not what, who would prepare for the battle? To talk in an unknown language in a Christian assembly is altogether as vain and to no purpose as for a trumpet to give no certain sound in the field or day of battle. The army in one case, and the congregation in the other, must be all in suspense, and at a perfect nonplus. To speak words that have no significancy to those who hear them is to leave them ignorant of what is spoken; it is speaking to the air, Co1 14:9. Words without a meaning can convey no notion nor instruction to the mind; and words not understood have no meaning with those who do not understand them: to talk to them in such language is to waste our breath.
3.He compares the speaking in an unknown tongue to the gibberish of barbarians. There are, as he says (Co1 14:10), many kinds of voices in the world, none of which is without its proper signification. This is true of the several languages spoken by different nations. All of them have their proper signification. Without this they would be phōnai aphōnoi - a voice, and no voice. For that is no language, nor can it answer the end of speaking, which has no meaning. But whatever proper signification the words of any language may have in themselves, and to those who understand them, they are perfect gibberish to men of another language, who understand them not. In this case, speaker and hearers are barbarians to each other (Co1 14:11), they talk and hear only sounds without sense; for this is to be a barbarian. For thus says the polite Ovid, when banished into Pontus,
Barbarus hic ego sum, quia non intelligor ulli,
I am a barbarian here, none understand me.
To speak in the church in an unknown tongue is to talk gibberish; it is to play the barbarian; it is to confound the audience, instead of instructing them; and for this reason is utterly vain and unprofitable.
II.Having thus established his point, in the two next verses he applies,
1.By advising them to be chiefly desirous of those gifts that were most for the church's edification, Co1 14:12. "Forasmuch as you are zealous of spiritual gifts, this way it will become commendable zeal, be zealous to edify the church, to promote Christian knowledge and practice, and covet those gifts most that will do the best service to men's souls." This is the great rule he gives, which,
2.He applies to the matter in hand, that, if they did speak a foreign language, they should beg of God the gift of interpreting it, Co1 14:13. That these were different gifts, see Co1 12:10. Those might speak and understand a foreign language who could not readily translate it into their own: and yet was this necessary to the church's edification; for the church must understand, that it might be edified, which yet it could not do till the foreign language was translated into its own. Let him therefore pray for the gift of interpreting what he speaks in an unknown tongue; or rather covet and ask of God the gift of interpreting than of speaking in a language that needs interpretation, this being most for the church's benefit, and therefore among the gifts that excel; vide Co1 14:12. Some understand it, "Let him pray so as to interpret what he utters in prayer in a language unintelligible without it." The sum is that they should perform all religious exercises in their assemblies so that all might join in them and profit by them.
3.He enforces this advice with a proper reason, that, if he prayed in an unknown tongue, his spirit might pray, that is, a spiritual gift might be exercised in prayer, or his own mind might be devoutly engaged, but his understanding would be unfruitful (Co1 14:14), that is, the sense and meaning of his words would be unfruitful, he would not be understood, nor therefore would others join with him in his devotions. Note, It should be the concern of such as pray in public to pray intelligibly, not in a foreign language, nor in a language that, if it be not foreign, is above the level of his audience. Language that is most obvious and easy to be understood is the most proper for public devotion and other religious exercises.
Historical interpretation
Two Centuries of Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
The apostle thus speaks: "So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue a word easy to be understood, how shall ye know what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. There are, it may be, so many kind of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me." And, "Let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret."
The soul is stirred and rejoices when it learns something more about the Scriptures. The more it tends in this direction, the more it abandons vices. It is for these reasons that Paul advises that one should make efforts to communicate clearly.
"What then must be done?" saith he. Why, so far from disparaging, one ought to recommend and to teach it; as indeed himself also doth. Since after he had accused and rebuked it and shown its unprofitableness, he proceeds to counsel them; saying, "So also ye, since as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may abound unto the edifying of the Church."
Seest thou his aim every where, how he looks to one thing continually and in all cases, the general utility, the profiting the Church, laying this down as a kind of rule? And he did not say, "that ye may obtain the gifts" but, "that ye may abound," i.e., that ye may even possess them in great plenitude. Thus, so far am I from wishing you not to possess them, that I even wish you to abound in them, only so that ye handle them with a view to the common advantage. And how is this to be done? This he adds, saying,
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Summary
In the Apostle Paul provides a pivotal directive to the Corinthian believers, urging them to channel their fervent desire for spiritual manifestations not for personal display or individual gratification, but strategically and effectively for the collective strengthening and spiritual growth of the entire church community. This verse encapsulates Paul's overarching concern for order, love, and the corporate benefit of all gifts within the body of Christ.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's comprehensive discourse on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14. Having established the unity and diversity of gifts from the one Spirit in chapter 12 and famously exalted love as the "more excellent way" in chapter 13, Paul dedicates chapter 14 to regulating the public exercise of gifts, particularly contrasting prophecy with tongues. The Corinthian church, while zealous for spiritual experiences, often prioritized individual ecstatic manifestations, leading to disorder and a lack of corporate benefit. Paul's instruction in 1 Corinthians 14:12 serves as a summary principle, guiding their enthusiasm towards the ultimate goal of building up the church, which he explicitly states is the purpose of all gifts in 1 Corinthians 14:26.
Historical & Cultural Context
The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub, known for its diverse religious practices, philosophical schools, and a culture that often valued public display and individual prominence. The Corinthian church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, struggled with internal divisions, pride, and a misunderstanding of Christian liberty and spiritual power. In this environment, the public demonstration of spiritual gifts, especially speaking in tongues, became a source of status and potential disorder. Paul's letter addresses these specific challenges, correcting their misguided zeal and reorienting their understanding of worship and community life. His emphasis on "edifying the church" directly counters the prevailing cultural tendency towards self-exaltation and brings a counter-cultural, Christ-centered perspective to the exercise of spiritual gifts.
Key Themes
1 Corinthians 14:12 encapsulates several key themes central to Paul's teaching on the church. First, it highlights the Zeal with Right Motivation. Paul acknowledges the Corinthians' "zeal" for spiritual things, not condemning their passion but redirecting its aim. Their eagerness is good, but its direction must be for corporate good, not personal glory. Second, the verse underscores the Purpose of Gifts: Edification. This is the paramount principle for Paul regarding the use of spiritual gifts. Gifts are not ends in themselves, nor are they for personal aggrandizement, but are divinely bestowed means to build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12). Finally, the call to "excel" speaks to Excellence in Service. This is not a call to compete for spiritual prominence, but to strive for maximum effectiveness in contributing to the church's health, maturity, and spiritual strength. It implies a diligent and intentional pursuit of using one's gifts in the most beneficial way for the community, echoing the call to use gifts faithfully in Romans 12:6-8.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning a "zealot." This word describes someone characterized by intense eagerness, fervor, or passion. In this context, it acknowledges the Corinthians' strong desire for spiritual manifestations and experiences. Paul is not squelching their zeal but directing it from a potentially self-serving or disorderly expression to a constructive, community-focused one.
Related to "spirit." Here, it refers to "spiritual things" or "manifestations of the Spirit." The KJV's addition of "[gifts]" is an interpretation, as the Greek literally refers to things pertaining to the Spirit. This highlights the Corinthians' particular interest in the more outwardly impressive or ecstatic spiritual phenomena.
Meaning "architecture, i.e. (concretely) a structure; figuratively, confirmation." This term is a powerful architectural metaphor, signifying the process of building a house or structure. In a spiritual sense, it refers to the strengthening, growth, and establishment of the church. It implies stability, spiritual maturity, and the collective well-being of the community, serving as the ultimate goal for the exercise of all spiritual gifts.
Verse Breakdown
"Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual [gifts],"
Paul begins by acknowledging the Corinthians' existing fervor. The phrase "Even so ye" (G2532 kaí G3779 hoútō G5210 hymeîs) links this instruction to previous points, particularly the comparison between prophecy and tongues. "Forasmuch as ye are zealous" (G1893 epeí G2075 esté G2207 zēlōtḗs) affirms their passion for "spiritual [things]" (G4151 pneûma), setting the stage for his corrective guidance. He recognizes their spiritual energy but implies it needs proper direction.
"seek that ye may excel"
This is Paul's direct imperative (G2212 zētéō). The verb "seek" is a strong command, urging active pursuit. "Excel" (G4052 perisseúō) means to superabound, to be in excess, or to cause to superabound or excel. It's not about being superior to others, but about maximizing one's contribution and effectiveness in the use of gifts for the benefit of the community. It implies a striving for greater impact and fruitfulness.
"to the edifying of the church."
This final phrase (G4314 prós G3619 oikodomḗ G1577 ekklēsía) states the explicit purpose and ultimate goal. All zeal and striving for excellence in spiritual gifts must be directed "towards" (G4314 prós) the "edifying" (G3619 oikodomḗ) or building up of "the church" (G1577 ekklēsía). This clarifies that gifts are not for individual show or personal spiritual highs, but for the corporate strengthening, growth, and maturity of the entire body of believers.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in 1 Corinthians 14:12 to convey his message effectively. The most prominent is Metaphor, specifically the architectural metaphor of "edifying" (Greek oikodomē). This image of building a structure powerfully conveys the idea of strengthening, establishing, and contributing to the growth and stability of the church. It implies that each believer, through their gifts, is a vital component in constructing a robust spiritual dwelling. Additionally, the verse functions as a direct Exhortation, a strong appeal or command from Paul to the Corinthians, urging them to change their focus and prioritize. There is also an implicit Contrast at play, building on the preceding verses of chapter 14. Paul contrasts the self-edification that can result from uninterpreted tongues with the church-edification that comes from prophecy and other gifts used for the common good. This contrast highlights the proper orientation of spiritual zeal.
Theological and Thematic Connections
1 Corinthians 14:12 is a foundational verse for understanding the purpose and proper exercise of spiritual gifts within the Christian community. It firmly establishes that divine endowments are not for personal aggrandizement, spiritual pride, or individualistic pursuits, but are primarily for the corporate good of the body of Christ. This principle underscores the communal nature of Christian faith and the interconnectedness of believers. The "edifying of the church" is a holistic concept encompassing spiritual growth, doctrinal soundness, mutual encouragement, and the effective witness of the community to the world. It means that every gift, whether seemingly grand or humble, finds its true value and expression when it contributes to the overall health, maturity, and unity of the church, reflecting God's design for His people to function as a cohesive and loving body.
Reflection and Application
1 Corinthians 14:12 offers timeless guidance for believers today, challenging us to examine the motivation and impact of our spiritual zeal and the exercise of our gifts. In a culture that often celebrates individual achievement and personal expression, this verse calls us back to the communal purpose of the church. It reminds us that our talents, whether spiritual gifts, natural abilities, or acquired skills, are ultimately given by God to serve others and build up the body of Christ. This requires humility, a willingness to prioritize the needs of the community over personal preferences, and a constant evaluation of whether our contributions are genuinely strengthening, encouraging, and maturing those around us. It encourages us to be discerning, ensuring that our spiritual pursuits are always directed towards the common good, fostering unity, love, and growth within the church, rather than causing division or seeking self-promotion.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "spiritual [gifts]" in this context?
In 1 Corinthians 14:12, the Greek term translated as "spiritual [gifts]" is pneumatika (G4151), which literally means "spiritual things" or "matters of the Spirit." While often understood as "spiritual gifts" (which is implied by the context of 1 Corinthians 12-14), Paul's use of the broader term highlights the Corinthians' general enthusiasm for any manifestation or experience they perceived as coming from the Holy Spirit. He is acknowledging their desire for spiritual phenomena, particularly those like speaking in tongues, but immediately redirects their focus from the experience itself to its ultimate purpose: the building up of the church.
Why was "edifying" so important to Paul in his instructions to the Corinthian church?
"Edifying" (Greek: oikodomē, G3619) was paramount to Paul because it encapsulated his vision for the healthy functioning and growth of the church. The Corinthian church was plagued by divisions (1 Corinthians 1:10-13), spiritual pride (1 Corinthians 4:6-7), and disorder in worship (1 Corinthians 14:33). The concept of "edifying" directly countered these issues by emphasizing unity, mutual support, and corporate spiritual maturity. Paul consistently teaches that all gifts, ministries, and actions within the church should contribute to strengthening the community, much like bricks and mortar build a strong house. Without edification, spiritual expressions could become chaotic, self-serving, and ultimately destructive to the body of Christ, which is why he concludes 1 Corinthians 14 with the directive that "Let all things be done unto edifying" (1 Corinthians 14:26).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
1 Corinthians 14:12, with its emphasis on channeling spiritual zeal for the edification of the church, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in Jesus Christ Himself. Christ is the supreme "edifier" and the very foundation upon which the church is built (1 Corinthians 3:11). His entire earthly ministry was characterized by a selfless, zealous pursuit of God's will, always directed towards the spiritual and physical building up of humanity, culminating in the establishment of His church. He did not seek His own glory but consistently glorified the Father and served others, even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Jesus' life, teachings, and atoning sacrifice were the ultimate acts of "edifying" for His people, laying the groundwork for their salvation and spiritual growth. The church, as His body, is called to reflect this same self-giving, community-focused love. Just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her to make her holy and blameless (Ephesians 5:25-27), so too are believers to use their gifts, empowered by His Spirit, to continue His work of building up and perfecting the saints, ensuring that every action contributes to the flourishing and maturity of His bride.