² 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. ³ But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening,^(D) encouraging^(E) and comfort. ⁴ Anyone who speaks in a tongue^(F) edifies^(G) themselves, but the one who prophesies^(H) edifies the church. ⁵ 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)

⁶ Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation^(K) or knowledge^(L) or prophecy or word of instruction?^{(M) 7} Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes? ⁸ Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?^{(N) 9} So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. ¹⁰ Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. ¹¹ If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me.^{(O) 12} So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit,^(P) try to excel in those that build up^(Q) the church.

¹³ For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say.^{(R) 14} For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays,^(S) but my mind is unfruitful. ¹⁵ So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit,^(T) but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing^(U) with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.