For anyone who speaks in a tongue[a](A) does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them;(B) they utter mysteries(C) by the Spirit. But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening,(D) encouraging(E) and comfort. Anyone who speaks in a tongue(F) edifies(G) themselves, but the one who prophesies(H) edifies the church. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues,[b] but I would rather have you prophesy.(I) The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues,[c] unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.(J)

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 14:2 Or in another language; also in verses 4, 13, 14, 19, 26 and 27
  2. 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39
  3. 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39

For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.

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

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.

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