How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:26KJV
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1 Corinthians 14:26 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:26 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:26 explains that when Christians gather together, each person may bring something to share—like a song, a teaching, a message in another language, a revelation, or an interpretation—but everything should be done in a way that builds up the whole group. The main point is that all contributions in a church meeting should help everyone grow and be encouraged.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing how their gatherings sometimes became confusing or disorderly because so many people wanted to participate at once. By listing different types of contributions, Paul shows that a variety of gifts and roles are welcome, but he stresses that the purpose of these gifts is to strengthen and encourage the community, not to cause chaos or draw attention to individuals.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:26

  • The word ἐκκλησία (ekklesia, not tagged here but implied by "come together" G4905, συνέρχομαι/sunerchomai) refers to the assembly or gathering, highlighting that Paul is speaking about a group setting, not private worship.
  • The word οἰκοδομή (oikodomē, G3619), translated as "edifying," means building up or strengthening. Paul uses this word to make clear that the goal of every contribution is the spiritual growth and encouragement of the group, not personal display.
  • The word γλῶσσα (glōssa, G1100), translated as "tongue," refers to speaking in other languages or tongues, a spiritual gift that was causing confusion in Corinth. Paul includes it to show it is valid, but only if it helps the group through interpretation.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:26 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that church gatherings are meant to be participatory, not dominated by one person, but also not chaotic—everyone can contribute, but with the goal of helping others.
  • Paul’s instruction connects to the wider chapter, where he is guiding the Corinthians toward order and love in their use of spiritual gifts, especially in public worship.
  • The emphasis on "edifying" helps readers see that spiritual gifts are not for self-promotion but for the benefit and growth of the whole community.