1 Corinthians 14:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 14:39
39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 14 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, truth. 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 14:39
39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Cross-References
- Prophecy: 1 Corinthians 14:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:20
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 12:31, 14:3, 14:5