1 Corinthians 14:18

I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:

I thank {G2168} my {G3450} God {G2316}, I speak {G2980} with tongues {G1100} more than {G3123} ye {G5216} all {G3956}:

I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you,

I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.

I thank God, I speak with tongues more than you all:

Commentary

1 Corinthians 14:18 presents a personal statement from the Apostle Paul, where he affirms his own extensive experience with the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues. This declaration serves as a crucial preface to his subsequent instructions on the proper use and regulation of spiritual gifts within the church at Corinth.

Context

This verse is found within Paul's comprehensive teaching on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14. The church in Corinth was experiencing disorder, particularly concerning the public exercise of spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues. Some believers were using these gifts in ways that did not contribute to the overall edification of the assembly, leading to confusion. Paul's aim throughout these chapters is to bring order, emphasizing that all gifts come from the Holy Spirit and are intended for the common good of the church. After exalting love as the "more excellent way" in chapter 13, he returns to the practical application of gifts, contrasting prophecy (which is understandable) with tongues (which requires interpretation).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Paul's Personal Proficiency: Paul's statement, "I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all," reveals his own deep spiritual experience and abundant personal practice of this gift. He isn't an outsider commenting on something he doesn't understand; he speaks from firsthand experience and proficiency.
  • Validation of the Gift: By openly declaring his extensive use of tongues, Paul validates the gift itself. He is not condemning the gift of tongues, but rather its misuse or unregulated display in public worship without interpretation. This personal testimony lends authority to his subsequent instructions.
  • Foundation for Instruction: Paul's acknowledgment of his own gift reinforces the legitimacy of his guidance. It positions him as someone who understands the power and potential of the gift, making his emphasis on order and interpretation for public edification all the more impactful. He possesses the gift, but he prioritizes its proper use for the benefit of others.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "tongues" is glossa (γλῶσσα), which literally means "tongue" but in this context refers to speaking in a language unknown to the speaker. This can be either a human language (as demonstrated at Pentecost in Acts 2:4) or a divinely inspired, non-human utterance. Paul's emphasis in the surrounding verses on the need for interpretation suggests that he is discussing utterances that are not naturally understood by the hearers, whether human or divine. His statement here likely refers to his private devotional life, where the gift would be personally enriching without requiring public interpretation.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable insight for believers today. It underscores that spiritual gifts are real, diverse, and given by God. Paul's example teaches us that even those with profound spiritual experiences and gifts must prioritize order, clarity, and the edification of the community, especially in public worship settings. While personal spiritual practices can be deeply enriching for the individual, the ultimate measure of a gift's value in a communal setting is its ability to build up the body of Christ. It encourages us to appreciate all spiritual gifts while exercising them responsibly, humbly, and always with love as the guiding principle.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 1:4 (2 votes)

    I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;

  • 1 Corinthians 1:6 (2 votes)

    Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:

  • 1 Corinthians 4:7 (1 votes)

    ¶ For who maketh thee to differ [from another]? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive [it], why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received [it]?