1 Corinthians 14:3-5
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
3 On the other hand, one who prophesies does speak to human beings, for their building up,[a] encouragement, and solace.(A) 4 Whoever speaks in a tongue builds himself up, but whoever prophesies builds up the church. 5 Now I should like all of you to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. One who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be built up.
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- 14:3b–5 They produce two kinds of effect. One who speaks in tongues builds himself up; it is a matter of individual experience and personal perfection, which inevitably recalls Paul’s previous remarks about being inflated, seeking one’s own good, pleasing oneself. But a prophet builds up the church: the theme of “building up” or “edifying” others, the main theme of the letter, comes to clearest expression in this chapter (1 Cor 14:3, 4, 5, 12, 17). It has been anticipated at 1 Cor 8:1 and 1 Cor 10:23, and by the related concept of “the beneficial” in 1 Cor 6:12; 10:23; 12:7; etc.
1 Corinthians 14:3-5
New International Version
3 But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening,(A) encouraging(B) and comfort. 4 Anyone who speaks in a tongue(C) edifies(D) themselves, but the one who prophesies(E) edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues,[a] but I would rather have you prophesy.(F) The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues,[b] unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.(G)
Footnotes
- 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39
- 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39
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