1 Corinthians 14:30
If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
G1437
ἐὰν
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 8
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
ἀποκαλυφθῇ
any thing be revealed
G601
ἀποκαλυφθῇ
any thing be revealed
Strong's:
G601
Word #:
4 of 8
to take off the cover, i.e., disclose
καθημένῳ
that sitteth by
G2521
καθημένῳ
that sitteth by
Strong's:
G2521
Word #:
5 of 8
and ???? (to sit; akin to the base of g1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
This suggests dynamic, Spirit-led worship where multiple congregants prophesied spontaneously. Paul doesn't suppress spontaneity but orders it: speak in turn, yield to others, prioritize fresh revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse show both spontaneity and order in Spirit-led worship?
- Why should the first speaker yield when another receives revelation?
- What does this teach about the Spirit's character and corporate worship?
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Analysis & Commentary
If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace—Paul addresses overlapping prophecies. If apokalyphthē (ἀποκαλυφθῇ, "it be revealed") to allō kathēmenō (ἄλλῳ καθημένῳ, "another sitting by"), then ho prōtos sigatō (ὁ πρῶτος σιγάτω, "let the first be silent").
The scenario: one prophet is speaking when another receives revelation. Paul says the first should yield to the second. This assumes
The same Spirit who gives revelation gives grace to wait; there's no conflict between Spirit-prompting and orderly process.