1 Corinthians 14:4

Authorized King James Version

He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
λαλῶν
He that speaketh
to talk, i.e., utter words
#3
γλώσσῃ
in an unknown tongue
the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)
#4
ἑαυτὸν
himself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#5
οἰκοδομεῖ
edifieth
to be a house-builder, i.e., construct or (figuratively) confirm
#6
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#8
προφητεύων
he that prophesieth
to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office
#9
ἐκκλησίαν
the church
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
#10
οἰκοδομεῖ
edifieth
to be a house-builder, i.e., construct or (figuratively) confirm

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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