1 Corinthians 14:3

But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men [to] edification, and exhortation, and comfort.

But {G1161} he that prophesieth {G4395} speaketh {G2980} unto men {G444} to edification {G3619}, and {G2532} exhortation {G3874}, and {G2532} comfort {G3889}.

But someone prophesying is speaking to people, edifying, encouraging and comforting them.

But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.

But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men edification, and exhortation, and consolation.

1 Corinthians 14:3 is a pivotal verse in Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts, particularly contrasting the gift of prophecy with speaking in tongues. It clearly defines the beneficial purpose of prophecy within the Christian community: to build up, encourage, and provide solace.

Context

This verse is situated within 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14, where the Apostle Paul addresses issues concerning spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church. The Corinthians were enthusiastic about spiritual manifestations but often lacked understanding of their proper use and purpose, leading to disorder, particularly regarding speaking in tongues. Paul emphasizes that while all gifts are from God, their value is determined by their ability to build up the body of Christ. Chapter 13, the "love chapter," serves as the overarching principle, asserting that love must motivate the exercise of all gifts. Here in chapter 14, Paul directly compares the benefits of prophecy over uninterpreted tongues, stating that prophecy directly serves the community.

Key Themes

  • The Purpose of Prophecy: Unlike speaking in tongues which might only benefit the speaker without interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:2), prophecy is explicitly directed "unto men" for their benefit. It is a gift designed to communicate God's truth in an understandable way. Paul encourages believers to "desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy" because of its communal benefit.
  • Edification (Building Up): The Greek word for edification is oikodomē, which literally means "building" or "construction." In a spiritual sense, it refers to the process of strengthening, maturing, and growing the faith and character of believers, individually and corporately. Prophecy contributes to the spiritual health and stability of the church.
  • Exhortation (Encouragement and Urging): The term paraklēsis encompasses both encouragement and urging towards right action. It speaks to the idea of coming alongside someone to provide comfort, strengthen their resolve, or call them to a deeper commitment to God's ways. Prophecy, therefore, inspires believers to persevere and live righteously.
  • Comfort (Consolation): The Greek word here is paramythia, which means consolation or solace. It speaks to providing relief from distress, sorrow, or fear. Prophecy offers hope, peace, and reassurance from God, especially in times of difficulty or uncertainty.

Linguistic Insights

The term "prophesieth" (Greek: prophēteuō) in this context is broader than merely predicting the future. It refers to speaking forth God's message, often by divine inspiration, which can include forth-telling (proclaiming God's will) as well as foretelling (predicting future events). The emphasis in 1 Corinthians is on its function as inspired, understandable communication that serves the church. The three outcomes—edification, exhortation, and comfort—are distinct yet complementary aspects of how God's word, when spoken clearly, builds up His people.

Practical Application

This verse highlights the enduring principle that all spiritual gifts and ministries within the church should aim to benefit others, not the individual. Whether through preaching, teaching, counseling, or sharing personal testimony, the goal should always be to edify, exhort, and comfort fellow believers. It underscores the importance of clear, understandable communication in divine service. When we speak God's truth, our words should seek to strengthen faith, encourage righteous living, and bring solace to those who are hurting. This principle applies to every believer's interaction, reminding us that our words have the power to build up or tear down, and we are called to use them for spiritual construction.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:12

    Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual [gifts], seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.

  • 1 Timothy 4:13

    Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

  • Titus 1:9

    Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

  • Ephesians 6:22

    Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and [that] he might comfort your hearts.

  • Jude 1:20

    But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

  • 2 Timothy 4:2

    Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

  • Romans 14:19

    Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

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