TRV
Translation
King James Version
I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
KJV (with Strong's)
G1161 I would G2309 that ye G5209 all G3956 spake G2980 with tongues G1100, but G1161 rather G3123 that G2443 ye prophesied G4395: for G1063 greater G3187 is he that prophesieth G4395 than G2228 he that speaketh G2980 with tongues G1100, except G1622 G1508 he interpret G1329, that G2443 the church G1577 may receive G2983 edifying G3619.
Complete Jewish Bible
I wish you would all speak in tongues, but even more I wish you would all prophesy. The person who prophesies is greater than the person who speaks in tongues, unless someone gives an interpretation, so that the congregation can be edified.
Berean Standard Bible
I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified.
American Standard Version
Now I would have you all speak with tongues, but rather that ye should prophesy: and greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
World English Bible Messianic
Now I desire to have you all speak with other languages, but rather that you would prophesy. For he is greater who prophesies than he who speaks with other languages, unless he interprets, that the assembly may be built up.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I would that ye all spake strange languages, but rather that ye prophecied: for greater is hee that prophecieth, then hee that speaketh diuers tongues, except hee expound it, that the Church may receiue edification.
Young's Literal Translation
and I wish you all to speak with tongues, and more that ye may prophecy, for greater is he who is prophesying than he who is speaking with tongues, except one may interpret, that the assembly may receive edification.
See also
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In the KJVVerse 28,684 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14 verses 1–5
1 ¶ Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
The apostle, in the foregoing chapter, had himself preferred, and advised the Corinthians to prefer, Christian charity to all spiritual gifts. Here he teaches them, among spiritual gifts, which they should prefer, and by what rules they should make comparison. He begins the chapter,
I. With an exhortation to charity (Co1 14:1): Follow after charity, pursue it. The original, diōkete, when spoken of a thing, signifies a singular concern to obtain it; and is commonly taken in a good and laudable sense. It is an exhortation to obtain charity, to get this excellent disposition of mind upon any terms, whatever pains or prayers it may cost: as if he had said, "In whatever you fail, see you do not miss of this; the principal of all graces is worth your getting at any rate."
II. He directs them which spiritual gift to prefer, from a principle of charity: "Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that you may prophesy, or chiefly that you may prophesy." While they were in close pursuit of charity, and made this Christian disposition their chief scope, they might be zealous of spiritual gifts, be ambitious of them in some measure, but especially of prophesying, that is, of interpreting scripture. This preference would most plainly discover that they were indeed upon such pursuit, that they had a due value for Christian charity, and were intent upon it. Note, Gifts are fit objects of our desire and pursuit, in subordination to grace and charity. That should be sought first and with the greatest earnestness which is most worth.
III. He assigns the reasons of this preference. And it is remarkable here that he only compares prophesying with speaking with tongues. It seems, this was the gift on which the Corinthians principally valued themselves. This was more ostentatious than the plain interpretation of scripture, more fit to gratify pride, but less fit to pursue the purposes of Christian charity; it would not equally edify nor do good to the souls of men. For, 1. He that spoke with tongues must wholly speak between God and himself; for, whatever mysteries might be communicated in his language, none of his own countrymen could understand them, because they did not understand the language, Co1 14:2. Note, What cannot be understood can never edify. No advantage can be reaped from the most excellent discourses, if delivered in unintelligible language, such as the audience can neither speak nor understand: but he that prophesies speaks to the advantage of his hearers; they may profit by his gift. Interpretation of scripture will be for their edification; they may be exhorted and comforted by it, Co1 14:3. And indeed these two must go together. Duty is the proper way to comfort; and those that would be comforted must bear being exhorted. 2. He that speaks with tongues may edify himself, Co1 14:4. He may understand and be affected with what he speaks; and so every minister should; and he that is most edified himself is in the disposition and fitness to do good to others by what he speaks; but he that speaks with tongues, or language unknown, can only edify himself; others can reap no benefit from his speech. Whereas the end of speaking in the church is to edify the church (Co1 14:4), to which prophesying, or interpreting scripture by inspiration or otherwise, is immediately adapted. Note, That is the best and most eligible gift which best answers the purposes of charity and does most good; not that which can edify ourselves only, but that which will edify the church. Such is prophesying, or preaching, and interpreting scripture, compared with speaking in an unknown tongue. 3. Indeed, no gift is to be despised, but the best gifts are to be preferred. I could wish, says the apostle, that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you prophesied, Co1 14:5. Every gift of God is a favour from God, and may be improved for his glory, and as such is to be valued and thankfully received; but then those are to be most valued that are most useful. Greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, unless he interpret, that the church may receive edifying, Co1 14:5. Benevolence makes a man truly great. It is more blessed to give than to receive. And it is true magnanimity to study and seek to be useful to others, rather than to raise their admiration and draw their esteem. Such a man has a large soul, copious and diffused in proportion to his benevolence and bent of mind for public good. Greater is he who interprets scripture to edify the church than he who speaks tongues to recommend himself. And what other end he who spoke with tongues could have, unless he interpreted what he spoke, is not easy to say, Note, That makes most for the honour of a minister which is most for the church's edification, not that which shows his gifts to most advantage. He acts in a narrow sphere, while he aims at himself; but his spirit and character increase in proportion to his usefulness, I mean his own intention and endeavours to be useful.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–5. Public domain.
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AmbrosiasterAD 384
COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES
Paul could not forbid speaking in tongues, because this is a gift of the Holy Spirit, but the pursuit of prophecy is more acceptable because it is more useful.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 1 Corinthians 35
Next, lest they should suppose that in envy to them he depresses the tongues, (for the more part had this gift,) to correct their suspicion he saith, "I would have you all speak with tongues, but rather that ye should prophesy: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the Church may receive edifying."
But "rather" and "greater," do not mark opposition, but superiority. So that hence also it is evident that he is not disparaging the gift, but leading them to better things, displaying both his carefulness on their behalf, and a spirit free from all envy. For neither did he say, "I would that two or three," but, "that ye all spake with tongues" and not this only, but also, "that ye prophesied;" and this rather than that; "for greater is he that prophesieth." For since he hath established and proved it, he next proceeds also to assert it; not however simply, but with a qualification. Accordingly he adds, "except he interpret;" since if he be able to do this, I mean the interpreting, "he hath become equal unto the prophet," so he speaks, "because then there are many who reap the advantage of it;" a thing to be especially observed, how this throughout, before all else, is his object.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 14:5, the Apostle Paul articulates his preference for the gift of prophecy over speaking in tongues within the gathered church, unless tongues are accompanied by interpretation. His primary concern is the spiritual edification of the entire congregation, emphasizing that any public manifestation of spiritual gifts must contribute to the collective understanding and growth of the body of Christ.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is situated within a larger, crucial discourse in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14, where Paul addresses the proper understanding and exercise of spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church. Following his foundational teaching on the unity and diversity of the body of Christ in chapter 12 and his profound exposition on the supremacy of love in chapter 13, Paul dedicates chapter 14 to practical guidelines for public worship. The Corinthians had evidently overemphasized the gift of tongues, leading to disorder and a lack of intelligibility in their gatherings. Paul's aim is to correct this imbalance, ensuring that worship is both Spirit-led and orderly, with a clear focus on mutual edification. Verse 5 serves as a direct comparison between tongues and prophecy, setting the stage for his subsequent detailed instructions on their use.
Historical & Cultural Context: The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub known for its diverse religious practices and philosophical schools, often characterized by ecstatic experiences. In this environment, the Corinthian believers, many of whom were new converts from pagan backgrounds, may have brought their pre-Christian understandings of spiritual ecstasy into the church. The gift of tongues, being a supernatural and often unintelligible utterance, might have been seen as a particularly impressive or "spiritual" manifestation, leading to a competitive display among members. This likely contributed to the chaotic scenes Paul addresses, where multiple people might speak in tongues simultaneously without interpretation, leaving the majority of the congregation unedified and potentially causing outsiders to view the church as mad, as suggested in 1 Corinthians 14:23. Paul's instructions were therefore vital for establishing order, promoting understanding, and ensuring the church's witness to the outside world.
Key Themes: The central theme permeating Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12-14 is the edification of the church. Paul consistently redirects the Corinthians from self-aggrandizement to corporate benefit. This verse explicitly highlights the superiority of prophecy for public worship because it directly contributes to understanding and spiritual growth, unlike uninterpreted tongues. The necessity of interpretation for tongues to be beneficial in public is another crucial theme; it transforms an otherwise unintelligible utterance into an understandable message, thereby making it equivalent to prophecy in its edifying power. This emphasis on clarity and intelligibility aligns with Paul's broader concern for order and understanding in worship, as seen in his call for all things to be done "decently and in order" in 1 Corinthians 14:40.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his message effectively. The primary device is Contrast, setting the gift of tongues against the gift of prophecy. He uses the comparative "greater" to establish a clear Hierarchy of Value based on the criterion of edification. The phrase "but rather" serves as an Emphasis on his preferred outcome for public worship. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Conditional Clause ("except he interpret") demonstrates Paul's nuanced approach, showing that tongues, when properly managed, can achieve the same beneficial outcome as prophecy. The concept of "edifying" itself functions as a powerful Metaphor for spiritual construction and growth, underscoring the practical purpose of all spiritual gifts.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 14:5 underscores a foundational principle of New Testament ecclesiology: the purpose of all spiritual gifts is the building up of the body of Christ. While individual spiritual experiences are valid, their public expression must always be evaluated by their contribution to the common good and the spiritual maturity of the community. This verse highlights the practical, corporate dimension of the Spirit's work, emphasizing that divine power is given not for personal display or individualistic exaltation, but for the collective strengthening and understanding of the church. It reflects a theology where God's gifts are designed to foster unity, clarity, and spiritual growth within the fellowship of believers.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 14:5 offers timeless wisdom for contemporary church life, urging believers to prioritize clarity, understanding, and mutual spiritual growth in all their gatherings and interactions. It challenges us to evaluate our contributions to the church, whether through teaching, service, or spiritual expression, by asking: "Does this build up others? Is it understandable and beneficial to the whole body?" This principle encourages a selfless approach to ministry, where personal preferences or impressive displays are secondary to the collective edification of the community. It calls us to cultivate an environment where the Holy Spirit moves freely, yet always in an orderly and intelligible manner, ensuring that every member, including visitors, can comprehend and be spiritually nourished by what transpires.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the difference between tongues and prophecy in this context?
Answer: In 1 Corinthians 14, "tongues" (Greek, glōssa) refers to speaking in a language unknown to the speaker, often unintelligible to the listeners without divine interpretation. It could be an earthly language or a heavenly one. "Prophecy" (Greek, prophēteúō), on the other hand, refers to inspired speech that is understandable to the audience, bringing forth a message from God that encourages, exhorts, comforts, or convicts. Paul's distinction is primarily based on intelligibility and its direct impact on the edification of the gathered church, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 14:2-3.
Why does Paul say prophecy is "greater" than tongues?
Answer: Paul states that prophecy is "greater" (Greek, meízōn) because of its direct and immediate benefit to the entire congregation. Prophecy, being understandable, directly builds up, encourages, and comforts the church, leading to collective spiritual growth. Uninterpreted tongues, while a legitimate spiritual gift, do not provide this corporate benefit because they are not understood by the majority, as explained in 1 Corinthians 14:4. The "greatness" is measured by its capacity for corporate edification.
What does "edifying" mean in the context of the church?
Answer: "Edifying" (Greek, oikodomḗ) means "building up" or "construction." In the context of the church, it refers to the spiritual growth, strengthening, and maturity of individual believers and the collective body of Christ. It implies a process of spiritual formation, where believers are strengthened in their faith, knowledge, and love, and the church as a whole grows in unity, understanding, and effectiveness in its mission. Paul consistently emphasizes that all spiritual gifts and activities in the church should ultimately contribute to this "building up" of the body, as also seen in Ephesians 4:16.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The principles articulated in 1 Corinthians 14:5 find their ultimate fulfillment and purpose in Christ. Jesus Christ is the quintessential Prophet, the very Word of God made flesh, whose entire earthly ministry was dedicated to speaking God's truth in an understandable and transformative way, thereby building up His disciples and inaugurating His kingdom. The gifts of the Spirit, including prophecy and tongues, are distributed by the Holy Spirit, who was sent by Christ to empower His church after His ascension, as promised in John 16:7. The ultimate goal of these gifts, the "edifying" of the church, is to bring the body of believers to maturity, reflecting the fullness of Christ, as described in Ephesians 4:13. Thus, every understandable word of prophecy and every interpreted utterance in tongues, when exercised in love and order, serves to conform the church more fully to the image of Christ, enabling it to effectively carry out His mission in the world and bring glory to His name, as He Himself prayed for the unity and sanctification of His followers in John 17.