If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:27KJV
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1 Corinthians 14:27 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:27 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:27 gives instructions for orderly worship when people speak in unknown languages (tongues) during church gatherings. Paul says that only two or three people should speak in tongues, one after another, and someone must interpret what is said.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, addressing confusion and disorder in their worship meetings. He wants to make sure that speaking in tongues does not cause chaos or leave others confused. By limiting the number of speakers and requiring interpretation, Paul emphasizes that everything in worship should be understandable and beneficial to everyone present.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:27

  • γλῶσσα (glōssa) — "tongue" or "language." This word refers to speaking in a language not understood by the gathered group, which is why interpretation is needed.
  • διερμηνεύω (diermēneuō) — "interpret." Paul insists that someone must explain the meaning of what is spoken, highlighting the importance of clarity and understanding in worship.
  • κατὰ μέρος (kata meros) — "by course" or "in turn." This phrase means that speakers should take turns, not all speak at once, reinforcing the need for order.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:27 matters

  • This verse clarifies that spiritual gifts, even dramatic ones like speaking in tongues, are meant to build up the church, not create confusion or draw attention to individuals.
  • It shows Paul's practical approach to worship, balancing freedom of expression with the need for structure and mutual understanding.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in 1 Corinthians 14, where Paul urges that all things in church gatherings should be done for the strengthening of everyone, not just a few.

Where else these words appear

“most” Greek G4118 · used in 3 verses

  • Matthew 11:20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not:
  • Matthew 21:8 And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way.

“let” Greek G1329 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
  • Acts 9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

“by” Greek G303 · used in 14 verses

  • Matthew 13:25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.
  • Mark 7:31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis.
  • John 2:6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.

“If” Greek G1535 · used in 29 verses

  • Romans 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
  • 1 Corinthians 14:7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
  • Ephesians 6:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.