1 Corinthians 14:37

KJV

If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

If any man {G1536} think himself {G1380} to be {G1511} a prophet {G4396}, or {G2228} spiritual {G4152}, let him acknowledge {G1921} that {G3754} the things {G3739} that I write {G1125} unto you {G5213} are {G1526} the commandments {G1785} of the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If anyone thinks he is a prophet or is endowed with the Spirit, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is a command of the Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is the Lord’s command.

American Standard Version

If any man thinketh himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him take knowledge of the things which I write unto you, that they are the commandment of the Lord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Corinthians 14:37 serves as a definitive statement from the Apostle Paul, asserting the divine authority of his instructions regarding spiritual gifts and church order within the Corinthian assembly. Paul directly challenges anyone claiming prophetic insight or spiritual giftedness to recognize that his written directives are not merely human counsel but are, in fact, the very commandments of the Lord, thereby establishing an indispensable criterion for genuine spiritual authenticity and submission to divine truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the culmination of Paul’s extensive discourse in [1 Corinthians 12-14](/1_corinthians/12-14 "1 Corinthians 12-14 - Spiritual Gifts and Orderly Worship"), where he addresses the chaotic and often self-serving exercise of spiritual gifts within the Corinthian church. Having previously emphasized the unity of the Spirit in diversity of gifts ([1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Unity and Diversity of Gifts")), the supremacy of love ([1 Corinthians 13](/1_corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Way of Love")), and the priority of prophecy over tongues for edification ([1 Corinthians 14:1-25](/1_corinthians/14-1-25 "1 Corinthians 14:1-25 - Prophecy and Tongues")), Paul then provides practical regulations for public worship. He mandates order for speaking in tongues ([1 Corinthians 14:27-28](/1_corinthians/14-27-28 "1 Corinthians 14:27-28 - Regulation of Tongues")) and prophecy ([1 Corinthians 14:29-33](/1_corinthians/14-29-33 "1 Corinthians 14:29-33 - Regulation of Prophecy")), concluding with a controversial instruction regarding women's conduct ([1 Corinthians 14:34-35](/1_corinthians/14-34-35 "1 Corinthians 14:34-35 - Women in the Assembly")). Verse 37, therefore, acts as a powerful, non-negotiable seal on all these preceding instructions, demanding their acceptance as divine mandates.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub known for its wealth, diverse religious practices, and moral laxity. The Corinthian church, a relatively young congregation, was deeply influenced by the surrounding culture, which often valued ecstatic experiences and rhetorical prowess. This environment contributed to the church's struggles with internal divisions, moral compromises, and a disordered approach to spiritual gifts, particularly the public display of speaking in tongues without interpretation. Paul's letter addresses these specific issues, seeking to bring the church into alignment with gospel principles and orderly Christian conduct. His assertion of authority in verse 37 was crucial in a context where individual spiritual experiences were potentially prioritized over communal edification and apostolic teaching.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/1 "1 Corinthians - Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians"). Firstly, it underscores **Apostolic Authority**, asserting Paul's unique role as an inspired apostle whose teachings carry the weight of divine command, not merely human opinion. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Order and Decency in Worship**, which is the overarching concern of [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Order in Worship"), ensuring that all practices contribute to the edification of the body, as stated in [1 Corinthians 14:26](/1_corinthians/14-26 "1 Corinthians 14:26 - Everything for Edification"). Thirdly, it introduces a critical principle of **Discernment and Testing of Spiritual Claims**, providing a litmus test for genuine prophetic or spiritual giftedness: submission to the revealed will of God through His appointed apostles. This theme is echoed in other New Testament passages that warn against false prophets and spirits, such as [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **think (Greek, _dokéō'_):** This verb signifies "to seem," "to suppose," or "to be of opinion." In this context, it refers to an individual's self-perception or conviction about their spiritual status or prophetic gifting. It implies a subjective judgment, which Paul then challenges with an objective standard.
* **acknowledge (Greek, _epiginṓskō'_):** This word means "to know upon some mark," "to recognize fully," or "to become fully acquainted with." It implies more than mere intellectual assent; it suggests a deep, experiential recognition and acceptance. Paul demands that those who claim spiritual insight truly and fully recognize the divine origin of his words.
* **commandments (Greek, _entolḗ'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to enjoin" or "to command," this noun denotes an "injunction" or "authoritative prescription." By using this term, Paul elevates his instructions from mere advice or personal preference to binding divine mandates, directly equating them with the will of the Lord.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** Signifying "supreme in authority" or "controller," this title is used for God or Christ. Here, it attributes the ultimate source of Paul's commandments to the sovereign Lord, emphasizing their divine, non-negotiable nature and demanding obedience from all believers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual":** Paul addresses individuals within the Corinthian church who claim to possess special spiritual insight, either through the gift of prophecy (speaking a message from God) or through a general sense of being "spiritual" (pneumatikos), implying a deep connection to the Spirit and perhaps a claim to special revelation or superior understanding. This clause sets up the condition for Paul's subsequent challenge, targeting those who might otherwise dismiss his directives based on their own perceived authority.
* **"let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you":** This is Paul's direct and authoritative imperative. The phrase "let him acknowledge" (epiginōskō) demands a full and conscious recognition. Paul is not merely offering suggestions; he is asserting that the content of his letter, specifically his instructions on church order and spiritual gifts, must be received as authoritative. The phrase "things that I write unto you" refers explicitly to the preceding directives in the letter.
* **"are the commandments of the Lord."** This is the crux of Paul's assertion, establishing the ultimate source and binding nature of his teachings. By declaring his writings to be "the commandments of the Lord," Paul equates his apostolic instruction with divine revelation. This means that to reject Paul's words is to reject the Lord's own commands, providing a decisive test for genuine spirituality and submission to God's will.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [1 Corinthians 14:37](/1_corinthians/14-37 "1 Corinthians 14:37 - Paul's Authority"). The most prominent is **Apostolic Authority**, where Paul unequivocally asserts his divinely given right to instruct the church. This is not a humble suggestion but a direct, unyielding declaration of the divine origin of his words. This assertion functions as a **Litmus Test** or **Criterion of Authenticity**: true prophets or genuinely spiritual individuals will demonstrate their authenticity by acknowledging and submitting to Paul's inspired teachings. The verse also contains a strong **Rhetorical Challenge**, directly confronting those who might pride themselves on their spiritual gifts but resist order. Paul's use of "If any man think himself..." sets up a conditional clause that leads to an inescapable conclusion, forcing self-proclaimed spiritual leaders to align their claims with obedience to revealed truth. The overall tone is **Didactic** and **Authoritative**, reflecting Paul's role as a foundational teacher and apostle.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Corinthians 14:37 is profoundly significant for understanding the nature of biblical authority and the inspiration of Scripture. Paul's declaration that his words are "the commandments of the Lord" establishes a foundational principle: the apostolic writings are not mere human opinions but are divinely inspired and therefore binding on all believers. This verse underscores the continuity between the Old Testament concept of God speaking through His prophets and the New Testament reality of God speaking through His apostles. It implies that genuine spirituality is characterized not by ecstatic display alone, but by humble submission to God's revealed will as articulated by His appointed messengers. This principle has far-reaching implications for how the church understands and applies the entire New Testament canon.

* [2 Peter 3:15-16](/2_peter/3-15-16 "2 Peter 3:15-16 - Paul's Letters as Scripture")
* [Galatians 1:11-12](/galatians/1-11-12 "Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul's Gospel from Revelation")
* [1 Thessalonians 2:13](/1_thessalonians/2-13 "1 Thessalonians 2:13 - Receiving God's Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Corinthians 14:37 provides a timeless challenge for believers today, urging us to critically examine the source and authority of all spiritual claims and teachings. In an age saturated with diverse voices and spiritual experiences, Paul's words remind us that true spirituality is ultimately defined by submission to God's revealed Word. This verse calls us to cultivate a discerning spirit, grounding our faith and practice firmly in the inspired Scriptures rather than subjective feelings or charismatic displays alone. It encourages us to value order, clarity, and edification in our corporate worship, ensuring that all activities align with biblical principles and build up the body of Christ. Ultimately, it reinforces the profound truth that God continues to speak authoritatively through His written Word, which remains the ultimate standard for faith and life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of spiritual authority and discernment in the church today?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to prioritize personal experience or opinion over the clear teachings of Scripture?**
* **How can I better ensure that my spiritual practices and church involvement are truly aligned with "the commandments of the Lord" as revealed in the Bible?**

### FAQ
**Does 1 Corinthians 14:37 mean that Paul's words are equal to God's words?**

Answer: Yes, precisely. Paul's declaration "are the commandments of the Lord" asserts the divine inspiration and authority of his apostolic writings. He is not claiming to be God, but rather that his message, as an apostle, is directly from God and carries divine authority. This is a foundational claim for the inspiration of the New Testament. Just as Old Testament prophets spoke "thus says the Lord," Paul, as an apostle, conveys God's will and commands. This aligns with other New Testament passages that affirm the divine origin of apostolic teaching, such as [2 Peter 3:15-16](/2_peter/3-15-16 "2 Peter 3:15-16 - Paul's Letters as Scripture"), where Peter includes Paul's letters among "the other Scriptures."

**How does this verse relate to the concept of biblical inerrancy?**

Answer: This verse strongly supports the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, which states that the Bible, in its original manuscripts, is without error in all that it affirms. If Paul's writings are "the commandments of the Lord," then they are inherently true and without error, as God Himself is truth and cannot err. This means that Paul's instructions, whether on theology, ethics, or church order, are divinely authoritative and reliable. It establishes a high view of Scripture as the infallible Word of God, providing a solid foundation for Christian faith and practice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 14:37 primarily addresses the authority of Paul's apostolic teaching, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the Living Word and the embodiment of all divine commandments. Paul's authority, and indeed all biblical authority, derives from Christ Himself, who commissioned the apostles and empowered them by His Spirit to speak His truth. Jesus declared, "[If you love me, keep my commandments](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - Keep My Commandments")," and His entire life was one of perfect obedience to the Father's will, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection. The "commandments of the Lord" that Paul writes are not arbitrary rules but expressions of God's holy character and His redemptive purposes, all centered in Christ. Ultimately, the order and edification Paul seeks in the church reflect the perfect order and glory of Christ's kingdom. To acknowledge Paul's words as the Lord's commandments is to acknowledge Christ as the supreme Lord and Head of the Church, whose authority is mediated through His inspired Word and His Spirit, leading His people into conformity with His image and purpose ([Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11-16 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Gifts for Edification")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 4:6

We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

2 Corinthians 10:7

¶ Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ's, even so [are] we Christ's.

Jude 1:17

But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;

2 Peter 3:2

That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:

2 Corinthians 10:12

¶ For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

Romans 12:3

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Galatians 6:8

For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.