1 Corinthians 14:28

1 Corinthians 14:28 (KJV) provides a crucial instruction regarding the proper use of the spiritual gift of tongues within the early church gatherings, emphasizing order and edification.

Context

This verse is part of a larger discussion in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14 where the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church's issues concerning spiritual gifts, particularly the chaotic and unedifying use of speaking in tongues. The Corinthians were enthusiastic about spiritual manifestations but sometimes lacked understanding of their purpose and proper administration. Paul's primary concern throughout 1 Corinthians 14 is that all things done in the church should contribute to the edification of the body of Christ, not confusion. This verse specifically follows Paul's guidelines for those speaking in tongues, stating that only two or at most three should speak, and "that by course; and let one interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:27).

Key Themes

• Order in Worship: Paul consistently advocates for structured and understandable worship services. This verse directly prohibits uninterpreted public speaking in tongues to maintain decorum and prevent chaos. It aligns with the principle that God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.
• Edification of the Church: The ultimate purpose of spiritual gifts is to build up the entire congregation. If a message is not understood, it cannot edify. Therefore, interpretation is essential for public display of tongues.
• Intelligibility: The core message is that communication within the church must be clear and comprehensible. Without an interpreter, a message in an unknown tongue is unintelligible to the listeners, rendering it useless for corporate instruction or encouragement.
• Self-Control and Responsibility: The instruction "let him keep silence" implies that the speaker has control over their gift. It's not an uncontrollable outburst but a gift to be exercised responsibly and in submission to the Holy Spirit's leading, which is always orderly.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "interpreter" is hermeneutēs (ἑρμηνευτής), which refers to one who explains, translates, or makes clear. This highlights the practical necessity of conveying meaning. The phrase "keep silence" (σιγάτω - sigato) indicates an active cessation of public speaking, not merely a quiet disposition. The instruction "speak to himself, and to God" does not forbid private prayer in tongues or personal devotion, but rather public display without the necessary interpretation for the benefit of the gathered assembly.

Practical Application

While the specific context is the gift of tongues, the principles of 1 Corinthians 14:28 have broader applications for church services today:

• Clarity in Communication: All communication in a public worship setting, whether preaching, teaching, or sharing, should be clear and understandable to the audience.
• Focus on Edification: Every element of a church service should aim to build up, instruct, and encourage the entire congregation. What serves personal devotion may not always be suitable for public ministry.
• Order and Respect: The verse reminds us of the importance of order and mutual respect in corporate worship. Individual expressions should be submitted to the common good and the overall flow of the service, ensuring that God is honored and all attendees are blessed.
• Private vs. Public Expression: It underscores the distinction between personal spiritual practices (speaking to oneself and God) and public ministry, where the benefit of others is paramount.