### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek phrase G1527 εἷς καθ’ εἷς (heîs kath’ heîs) is an idiomatic expression that literally translates to "one according to one" or "one by one." It is formed from the cardinal numeral εἷς (heîs, `{{G1520}}`), meaning "one," repeated with the preposition κατά (katá, `{{G2596}}`) inserted distributively. The phrase denotes a sequential, individual, or singular progression within a group or series of actions. It emphasizes distinctness and order, ensuring that each unit or participant is addressed or performs an action separately and consecutively, rather than simultaneously or in a disorderly fashion. Its semantic range primarily covers the concepts of individuality, succession, and methodical arrangement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The phrase G1527 εἷς καθ’ εἷς is notably found in [[1 Corinthians 14:31]], where the Apostle Paul is providing instruction concerning the orderly conduct of spiritual gifts within the Corinthian church's worship assemblies. The full verse reads: "For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged."
In this context, Paul addresses the potential for chaos and confusion that could arise from the unrestrained exercise of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and speaking in tongues. The command to prophesy "one by one" (εἷς καθ’ εἷς) stands in contrast to simultaneous speaking, which would lead to disorder and prevent edification. This instruction underscores the necessity of discipline and self-control in the exercise of spiritual gifts. The purpose articulated by Paul—"so that all may learn and all be encouraged"—reveals that the "one by one" approach is not merely about rigid rules, but about facilitating effective teaching, mutual edification, and spiritual growth within the community. It ensures that each prophetic utterance can be heard, discerned, and understood, thereby maximizing its benefit to the entire congregation. This passage highlights Paul's emphasis on orderliness as a hallmark of Christian worship, reflecting God's character as a God of peace and not of confusion ([[1 Corinthians 14:33]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words and concepts illuminate the meaning and theological significance of G1527 εἷς καθ’ εἷς:
* **εἷς (heîs, `{{G1520}}`):** The foundational word meaning "one." It signifies unity, singularity, or a single entity. Its repetition in the phrase emphasizes the individual nature of the action.
* **ἕκαστος (hekastos, `{{G1538}}`):** Meaning "each" or "every one." While similar in denoting individuality, ἕκαστος does not inherently carry the sequential or distributive force of "one by one." For example, [[Ephesians 4:7]] states, "But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift."
* **κατά (katá, `{{G2596}}`):** The preposition, which in this distributive usage means "according to," "by," or "in succession." Its presence is crucial in forming the idiomatic sense of "one by one."
* **Orderliness (εὐταξία, eutaxia):** The concept of order and proper arrangement is a key theme in 1 Corinthians 14. The phrase εἷς καθ’ εἷς is a practical application of this principle, ensuring that worship is conducted decently and in order ([[1 Corinthians 14:40]]).
* **Edification (οἰκοδομή, oikodomē):** The ultimate goal of orderly worship and the exercise of spiritual gifts is the building up of the church ([[1 Corinthians 14:26]]). The "one by one" approach facilitates this by ensuring clarity and understanding.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1527 εἷς καθ’ εἷς primarily stems from its use in [[1 Corinthians 14:31]], revealing several important principles:
1. **God as a God of Order:** The instruction to prophesy "one by one" directly supports the declaration in [[1 Corinthians 14:33]] that "God is not a God of confusion but of peace." This emphasizes that divine activity, especially in corporate worship, is characterized by order, harmony, and intelligibility, not chaos or disarray.
2. **Responsible Stewardship of Spiritual Gifts:** The phrase underscores the necessity for believers to exercise their spiritual gifts responsibly and with self-control. Gifts are given for the common good ([[1 Corinthians 12:7]]), and their exercise must be regulated to ensure they contribute to the edification of the entire body, rather than becoming a source of personal display or disruption.
3. **Value of Individual Contribution within Community:** While emphasizing order, the phrase simultaneously affirms the value of each individual's contribution. "All" are able to prophesy, but they must do so in a manner that respects others and the collective purpose. This balance highlights the tension and synergy between individual giftedness and corporate responsibility.
4. **Facilitating Learning and Encouragement:** The explicit purpose given by Paul—"so that all may learn and all be encouraged"—reveals that divine order in worship is not an end in itself, but a means to foster spiritual growth, understanding, and mutual strengthening within the believing community. True worship should be comprehensible and beneficial to all present.
### Summary
G1527 εἷς καθ’ εἷς is a significant Greek idiomatic phrase meaning "one by one" or "severally." Its primary New Testament occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 14:31]] provides crucial insight into the Apostle Paul's instructions for orderly and edifying corporate worship. The phrase mandates a sequential and individual exercise of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, to prevent confusion and promote clarity. Theologically, it affirms God's character as a God of order, highlights the responsible stewardship of spiritual gifts, underscores the value of individual contributions within a communal setting, and ultimately aims to facilitate learning and mutual encouragement among believers. It serves as a practical directive for ensuring that Christian assemblies are conducted in a manner that honors God and builds up His church.
TRV