1 Corinthians 14:4

He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

He that speaketh {G2980} in an unknown tongue {G1100} edifieth {G3618} himself {G1438}; but {G1161} he that prophesieth {G4395} edifieth {G3618} the church {G1577}.

A person speaking in a tongue does edify himself, but a person prophesying edifies the congregation.

The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.

He that speaketh in a tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 14:4 is a pivotal verse in Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts within the Corinthian church, particularly contrasting the value of speaking in tongues with that of prophecy. It highlights the principle of edification – building up – as the primary measure of a spiritual gift's usefulness in the communal setting.

Context

This verse is situated within a larger discourse (1 Corinthians 12-14) where Paul addresses the misuse and misunderstanding of spiritual gifts in the church at Corinth. The Corinthians were enthusiastic about spiritual manifestations, especially speaking in tongues, but lacked proper order and a focus on the common good. Paul's aim is to guide them toward a more mature and charitable use of these gifts, emphasizing that love (agape) should govern all spiritual expression. He seeks to correct their prioritization, asserting that gifts which build up the entire congregation are superior to those that only benefit the individual.

Key Themes

  • Edification (Building Up): The central theme is edification, from the Greek word oikodomeō, meaning "to build a house" or, metaphorically, "to build up, strengthen, encourage." Paul distinguishes between self-edification and the edification of the church. While speaking in an unknown tongue may strengthen the individual's spirit, prophecy directly benefits the entire community by providing understandable instruction, exhortation, and comfort.
  • Purpose of Spiritual Gifts: This verse underscores that spiritual gifts are not for personal display or private experience alone, but primarily for the mutual benefit and growth of the body of Christ. The ultimate goal of all gifts, as Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:7, is the common good.
  • Intelligibility and Order: The contrast implies the need for spiritual expression to be understandable. An unintelligible tongue, without interpretation, cannot contribute to the communal understanding or spiritual growth of others. Prophecy, by nature, is clear and direct, thus fulfilling the purpose of building up the church. This emphasis on order and intelligibility is crucial for effective church gatherings.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV text uses "[unknown]" in brackets, indicating that this word is not present in the original Greek manuscript but was added by translators for clarity. The phrase "speaketh in an unknown tongue" refers to ecstatic utterances or languages not understood by the speaker or hearers without divine interpretation. The Greek word for "tongue" is glōssa, referring to a language. The word "edifieth" (oikodomeō) carries the strong sense of constructive spiritual growth, strengthening, and fostering spiritual maturity. "Prophesieth" (prophēteuō) means to speak forth God's message, not necessarily predicting the future, but rather proclaiming divine truth, often for the purpose of exhortation, comfort, and instruction, which directly benefits the hearers.

Practical Application

This verse remains highly relevant for understanding the proper use of spiritual gifts in Christian worship and community life today. It encourages believers to prioritize spiritual expressions and ministries that are clear, understandable, and contribute to the collective spiritual health and growth of the church. While personal spiritual disciplines are vital, our corporate gatherings should focus on activities that build up and encourage every member. It challenges us to consider whether our contributions in church settings are truly for the common good or primarily for our own personal benefit. The principle is clear: true spiritual maturity leads to a desire to serve and strengthen others, reflecting the love of Christ that seeks to build up His body.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 14:22

    Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying [serveth] not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:26

    ¶ How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

  • Mark 16:17

    And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

  • 1 Corinthians 14:17

    For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:19

    Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that [by my voice] I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an [unknown] tongue.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:2

    And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

  • 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.
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