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.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:22KJV
Know the Bible

1 Corinthians 14:22 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:22 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:22 says that speaking in tongues is meant as a sign for unbelievers, not for those who already believe, while prophecy is meant for believers, not for unbelievers. Paul is explaining the different purposes of these spiritual gifts within the church community.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, addressing confusion about spiritual gifts during their gatherings. He points out that the gift of tongues (speaking in languages not previously known) serves as a sign to those who do not yet believe, while prophecy (speaking messages from God in a language everyone understands) is for those who already have faith. This helps the church understand how to use these gifts wisely when they meet together.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:22

  • "σημεῖον" (sēmeion, "sign"): This word means a sign, mark, or token. Paul uses it to show that tongues are meant to get the attention of unbelievers, not as a regular practice for believers.
  • "γλῶσσαι" (glōssai, "tongues"): This refers to languages. Paul is not talking about unintelligible speech but real languages that serve as a sign to outsiders.
  • "προφητεία" (prophēteia, "prophesying"): This means speaking forth a message from God in a way that is understandable to the listeners. Paul contrasts this with tongues to show its value for those who already believe.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:22 matters

  • This verse clarifies that not every spiritual gift is meant for every situation; some are specifically for reaching outsiders, while others are for building up those already in the faith.
  • It helps correct misunderstandings about the purpose of tongues, which some in Corinth were using in ways that did not benefit the whole church.
  • The verse connects to Paul's larger argument in chapters 12–14 about order and usefulness in worship, showing that spiritual gifts should be used thoughtfully and with the needs of others in mind.

Where else these words appear

“prophesying” Greek G4394 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 13:14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:20 Despise not prophesyings.
  • Revelation 11:6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.

“not” Greek G571 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 17:17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.
  • 1 Corinthians 6:6 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:

“tongues” Greek G1100 · used in 47 verses

  • Mark 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;
  • 1 Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
  • 1 Corinthians 14:39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

“sign” Greek G4592 · used in 69 verses

  • Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
  • Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
  • Acts 4:22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.