1 Corinthians 14:1 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:1 mean?

In 1 Corinthians 14:1, Paul tells the believers in Corinth to make love their pursuit while also wanting spiritual gifts. Among those gifts, he gives particular attention to the ability to prophesy: to speak a message from God.

The word “follow” pictures an active pursuit, not merely a passing interest. Paul’s instruction comes just after his description of love in chapter 13 and introduces his discussion of speech in the church gathering.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:1

• “Follow” — διώκω (diōkō): The word can carry the sense of pursuing something eagerly. Here, it gives “charity” the force of something to be actively sought.
• “charity” — ἀγάπη (agapē): The word means love. In the KJV, “charity” here refers to love for others, rather than simply giving money to people in need.
• “prophesy” — προφητεύω (prophēteuō): The word means to speak a message from God. In this passage, Paul connects such speech with strengthening, encouraging, and comforting others (verse 3).

Why 1 Corinthians 14:1 matters

• Paul’s preference has a reason connected to the gathered church. Later, he says that a person who prophesies helps build up the church (verse 4).
• “Rather” points to a particular gift, not to the rejection of other gifts. Paul says to “desire spiritual gifts” before naming prophecy as his preference.
• The verse joins love to the discussion of gifts. After describing love as essential in chapter 13, Paul begins chapter 14 with “Follow after charity.”