1 Corinthians 14:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 14:17
17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 14 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, truth, wisdom. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 14:17
17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 14:4