1 Corinthians 14:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 14:22
22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 14 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, discipleship. 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 14:22
22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
Analysis
Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not—Greek hōste hai glōssai eis sēmeion eisin (ὥστε αἱ γλῶσσαι εἰς σημεῖον εἰσιν, "so tongues are for a sign"), but for tois apistois (τοῖς ἀπίστοις, "the unbelieving"), not tois pisteuousin (τοῖς πιστεύουσιν, "the believing"). But prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe—the chiastic reversal.
The "sign" is ambiguous (see v. 21's judgment context): tongues serve as a sign to unbelievers—but what kind? Verse 23 clarifies: unbelievers hearing tongues think Christians are mad, hardly a positive witness. Paul's point: tongues don't convert unbelievers (they confuse them), while prophecy edifies believers. The Corinthians had it backwards, prizing tongues in believer-gatherings where prophecy should dominate.
Historical Context
The Corinthians apparently thought tongues would impress unbelievers, demonstrating the Spirit's presence. Paul argues the opposite: tongues confuse outsiders, while prophecy convicts them (v. 24-25).
Reflection
- In what sense are tongues a 'sign' for unbelievers?
- Why don't tongues serve evangelistic purposes according to Paul?
- How should the distinction between believers and unbelievers shape our corporate worship?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- Faith: Mark 16:17