1 Corinthians 14:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 14:5
5 I 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.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 14 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, fellowship, mercy. 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 essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 14:5
5 I 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.
Analysis
I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied—Paul affirms tongues as a genuine gift (thelō, "I wish/desire") while maintaining prophecy's superiority (mallon, "more, rather"). Greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues uses meizōn (μείζων, "greater") to establish a hierarchy based on edification, not authenticity.
Except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying—the critical exception: tongues plus interpretation equals prophecy in effect. The purpose clause hina hē ekklēsia oikodomēn labē ("that the church may receive edification") reveals the governing principle: edification is the goal, and intelligibility is the means. Tongues without interpretation fail this test; with interpretation, they serve love.
Historical Context
Paul's "I wish you all" echoes his pastoral heart—he doesn't despise any legitimate gift. But in Corinth's chaotic worship, prophecy served love better than uninterpreted ecstasy. The exception clause ("except he interpret") shows Paul's flexibility.
Reflection
- Why does Paul wish all spoke in tongues if prophecy is 'greater'?
- How does interpretation transform tongues from self-serving to church-serving?
- What modern worship elements might need the 'interpretation' test—is it edifying?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 12:10, 13:1, Mark 16:17