1 Corinthians 14:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:5 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:5 says that Paul wishes everyone in the church could speak in tongues, but he values prophecy even more, because prophecy helps the whole church understand and grow—unless someone interprets the tongues, so everyone can benefit. The main point is that building up the church community is more important than displaying a spiritual gift that others cannot understand.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, who were excited about spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues. He is explaining that while speaking in tongues (languages unknown to the speaker) is good, prophecy—speaking messages from God in a way people understand—is even better for the group. Paul’s focus is on what helps the whole church be strengthened and encouraged, not just individual spiritual experiences.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:5

• γλῶσσαις (glōssais, "tongues"): This word refers to languages, often understood as languages unknown to the speaker. Paul’s use here highlights that speaking in tongues is not automatically helpful unless others can understand.
• προφητεύητε (prophēteuēte, "prophesied"): This word means to speak forth a message from God in a way that is clear and understandable. Paul says this is "greater" because it directly benefits everyone listening.
• ἑρμηνεύῃ (hermēneuē, "interpret"): This word means to translate or explain. Paul makes it clear that tongues are only as valuable to the group as the interpretation that makes them understandable.
• οἰκοδομήν (oikodomēn, "edifying"): This word means building up or strengthening. Paul’s main concern is that the church community is built up, not just individuals.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:5 matters

• 1 Corinthians 14:5 helps clear up confusion about spiritual gifts by showing that gifts are meant to help the whole church, not just the individual using them.
• The verse emphasizes that clear communication and understanding are more valuable in a church setting than private spiritual experiences that others cannot share in.
• This verse connects to the larger discussion in 1 Corinthians 14, where Paul is teaching about order and usefulness in worship, guiding the church to focus on what helps everyone grow together.