1 Corinthians 14:39
Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
Original Language Analysis
ὥστε
Wherefore
G5620
ὥστε
Wherefore
Strong's:
G5620
Word #:
1 of 11
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
2 of 11
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προφητεύειν
to prophesy
G4395
προφητεύειν
to prophesy
Strong's:
G4395
Word #:
5 of 11
to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γλώσσαις·
with tongues
G1100
γλώσσαις·
with tongues
Strong's:
G1100
Word #:
9 of 11
the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)
Cross References
1 Corinthians 12:31But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.1 Corinthians 14:1Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.1 Corinthians 14:5I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.1 Corinthians 14:3But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.1 Thessalonians 5:20Despise not prophesyings.
Historical Context
Paul's balanced conclusion prevents two errors: over-valuing tongues (the Corinthian error) and forbidding them (a potential over-reaction). Both errors would harm the body; balance edifies it.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse summarize the chapter's priorities?
- Why does Paul say 'covet to prophesy' but only 'forbid not' tongues?
- How can we apply Paul's balanced approach to spiritual gifts today?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues—Greek hōste, adelphoi, zēloute to prophēteuein, kai to lalein mē kōluete glōssais (ὥστε, ἀδελφοί, ζηλοῦτε τὸ προφητεύειν, καὶ τὸ λαλεῖν μὴ κωλύετε γλώσσαις, "so, brothers, be zealous to prophesy, and don't forbid speaking in tongues"). Paul concludes by reaffirming the chapter's priorities: zēloute (ζηλοῦτε, "be zealous, earnestly desire") for prophecy; mē kōluete (μὴ κωλύετε, "don't forbid") tongues.
The summary balances emphasis and permission: pursue prophecy (it edifies), but don't suppress tongues (they're legitimate). Paul has regulated, not rejected, tongues. His pastoral wisdom: prioritize what builds up, but don't quench the Spirit by forbidding any genuine gift. The affectionate adelphoi ("brothers") softens the correction: he's not their enemy but their brother, guiding them toward mature, orderly, edifying worship.