1 Corinthians 14:19

Church. Gr. ekklesia (see on Matt. 18:17). The reference is not to the building in which meetings of Christians are held, but to the organized body of the believers, irrespective of the place in which they might gather.

Five words. In the NT the number “five” is frequently used as a round number meaning a few. Thus there were five sparrows (Luke 12:6), five in a house (v. 52), five yoke of oxen (ch. 14:19), etc.

With my understanding. Or, “with my mind,” that is, in a manner other than in “tongues,” so as to be intelligible to others.

Teach. Gr. katecheo, “to instruct orally,” “to teach by word of mouth.” From this word comes the term “catechism,” which originally meant oral instruction such as in the tenets of faith. It is better to give a very brief exhortation in church, as indicated by “five words,” if of the edifying kind, than a lengthy oration that is not comprehended by the hearers, and thus does not serve to instruct them.

An unknown tongue. Literally, “a tongue.”