1 Corinthians 14:29
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
Original Language Analysis
προφῆται
the prophets
G4396
προφῆται
the prophets
Strong's:
G4396
Word #:
1 of 10
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Early Christian prophecy was spontaneous, Spirit-prompted speech (Acts 13:1-2, 21:10-11). Paul doesn't quench this but insists on congregational discernment to guard against error.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul limit prophecy to 2-3 speakers like tongues?
- What does it mean for 'the other' to 'judge' prophecy?
- How can we balance openness to the Spirit with discernment in corporate worship?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge—Paul regulates prophecy similarly to tongues: prophētai de dyo ē treis laleitōsan (προφῆται δὲ δύο ἢ τρεῖς λαλείτωσαν, "let prophets, two or three, speak"), and hoi alloi diakrinētōsan (οἱ ἄλλοι διακρινέτωσαν, "let the others discern/judge").
Diakrinō (διακρίνω) means to discern, distinguish, evaluate—congregational testing of prophecy (1 Thess 5:19-21, "prove all things"). Even Spirit-prompted speech requires evaluation because human error can intrude. The limitation to 2-3 prophets prevents exhausting the congregation; the call to "judge" prevents uncritical acceptance. This is ordered freedom: prophecy is welcomed but tested.