For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:31KJV
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1 Corinthians 14:31 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:31 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:31 says that everyone in the church has the opportunity to speak a message from God, but they should do so one at a time so that everyone can learn and be encouraged. The verse emphasizes orderly participation and the shared goal of building up the whole group.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, addressing their gatherings where people often spoke out of turn or all at once. He explains that prophecy—speaking a message inspired by God—should be done in a way that helps everyone understand and feel supported. The focus is on learning together and making sure everyone is uplifted, not just a few.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:31

  • προφητεύειν (prophēteuein, "prophesy"): This word means to speak forth or declare a message from God. Here, Paul says all may prophesy, highlighting that this gift is not limited to a select few.
  • καθ’ ἕνα (kath’ hena, "one by one"): This phrase means "one at a time." Paul stresses the importance of order, so that messages are clear and not lost in confusion.
  • παρακαλῶνται (parakalōntai, "be comforted" or "encouraged"): This word often means to encourage, comfort, or strengthen. Paul’s goal is that everyone leaves the gathering built up, not confused or left out.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:31 matters

  • This verse clarifies that spiritual gifts like prophecy are meant for the benefit of the whole community, not just for personal expression or status.
  • Paul’s instruction about taking turns addresses confusion and disorder in worship, showing that God values clarity and mutual encouragement.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in 1 Corinthians 14 about using spiritual gifts in a way that builds up the church, not just displaying them for their own sake.

Where else these words appear

“learn” Greek G3129 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
  • Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
  • 1 Timothy 2:11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

“prophesy” Greek G4395 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
  • John 11:51 And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;
  • 1 Corinthians 14:3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.

“comforted” Greek G3870 · used in 104 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • Acts 16:39 And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:18 I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?