14:30

1 Corinthians 14:31

14:32

For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.

For {G1063} ye may {G1410} all {G3956} prophesy {G4395} one by one {G2596}{G1520}, that {G2443} all {G3956} may learn {G3129}, and {G2532} all {G3956} may be comforted {G3870}.

For you can all prophesy one by one, with the result that all will learn something and all will be encouraged.

For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged.

For ye all can prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted;

1 Corinthians 14:31 provides a crucial guideline for the orderly and beneficial use of the spiritual gift of prophecy within the early Christian assembly. Paul instructs that multiple individuals may share prophetic messages, but they must do so sequentially, ensuring that the entire congregation can both learn and receive spiritual comfort.

Context of 1 Corinthians 14:31

This verse is situated within a broader discussion in 1 Corinthians chapter 14, where the Apostle Paul addresses the chaotic and often self-serving use of spiritual gifts, particularly speaking in tongues and prophecy, within the Corinthian church. The believers in Corinth were enthusiastic about spiritual manifestations but lacked understanding of how to use them for the common good. Paul's primary concern throughout the chapter is that all spiritual expressions in the church should be for edification, building up the body of Christ, rather than causing confusion or disunity. He emphasizes that prophecy, which delivers understandable messages, is superior to uninterpreted tongues in a public setting because it directly benefits the hearers by teaching and encouraging them.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Orderly Participation: The phrase "one by one" is central, highlighting Paul's insistence on proper decorum and sequence during worship. This prevents simultaneous speaking, which would lead to confusion and hinder understanding, as discussed in 1 Corinthians 14:33. It allows for discernment and proper reception of the message.
  • Learning and Instruction: A primary purpose of prophecy, as stated, is "that all may learn." Prophetic messages, when clear and Spirit-inspired, serve to instruct, reveal truth, and deepen the congregation's understanding of God's will and character. This reflects the teaching aspect inherent in the gift.
  • Comfort and Encouragement: Beyond instruction, prophecy is also intended to "comfort." This comfort (paraklesis in Greek) encompasses encouragement, exhortation, and consolation. In a world full of challenges, Spirit-led words can bring immense solace and strengthen believers' faith, fulfilling the purpose outlined in 1 Corinthians 14:3.
  • Widespread Accessibility: The phrase "ye may all prophesy" suggests that the gift of prophecy is not limited to a select few, but potentially accessible to many believers, provided they exercise it responsibly and for the benefit of others. This encourages broad participation in the spiritual life of the community.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "prophesy" is propheteuō (προφητεύω), which literally means "to speak forth" or "to speak for another." While it can include foretelling future events, in the New Testament context, especially in passages like 1 Corinthians 14, it primarily refers to speaking a message from God under divine inspiration for the purpose of edification, exhortation, and comfort. It involves communicating divine truth in a way that is understandable and beneficial to the hearers.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 14:31 underscores the importance of order, mutual edification, and active participation in corporate worship. It reminds us that spiritual gifts, whatever they may be, are given not for personal display but for the building up of the church. Whether through teaching, sharing insights from Scripture, or offering words of encouragement, the goal should always be to help others learn and be comforted. This verse promotes a healthy, interactive, and Spirit-led environment where God's truth is clearly communicated and His people are strengthened in their faith and walk.

Note: Commentary is generated by a large language model with a directive for Biblical fidelity. While we find the analysis helpful, always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11

    ¶ Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:14

    Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all [men].

  • 1 Corinthians 14:3

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

  • 2 Corinthians 7:6

    Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;

  • 2 Corinthians 7:7

    And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:18

    Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

  • Ephesians 4:11

    And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

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