1 Corinthians Chapter 14 · Verse 17
For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
Original Language Analysis
μὲν
verily
G3303
μὲν
verily
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
εὐχαριστεῖς
givest thanks
G2168
εὐχαριστεῖς
givest thanks
Strong's:
G2168
Word #:
5 of 10
to be grateful, i.e., (actively) to express gratitude (towards); specially, to say grace at a meal
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
This likely reflects actual practice: individuals giving beautiful, Spirit-prompted thanksgiving in tongues while the congregation sat confused. Paul doesn't question sincerity but measures success by edification.
Questions for Reflection
- How can worship be sincere ('thou verily givest thanks well') yet fail to edify?
- Why isn't personal blessing in worship sufficient if others aren't built up?
- What's the relationship between the quality of worship and its edifying effect?
Analysis & Commentary
For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified—Paul concedes the tongues-speaker gives eucharisteis (εὐχαριστεῖς, "thanksgiving") kalōs (καλῶς, "well, beautifully"). But ho heteros (ὁ ἕτερος, "the other person") is ouk oikodomeitai (οὐκ οἰκοδομεῖται, "not edified").
The concession is gracious: your tongues-thanksgiving is genuine and beautiful—before God. But in corporate worship, one person's blessing that doesn't edify others fails the love test. The contrast between "well" and "not edified" is devastating: sincerity doesn't excuse failure to serve. This echoes 13:1-3—even the most spectacular gifts without love accomplish nothing.