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1 Corinthians 14:4

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

1 Corinthians 14:4

Verse 4 of 40

Scripture focus

He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

1 Corinthians 14:4 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:4

Theological / Devotional

An unknown tongue. Literally, “a tongue.” The word “unknown” is supplied.

Edifieth himself. The gift, therefore, performs a useful function, and has its place, but not in public assemblies unless an interpreter is present (see vs. 5, 19). It may be noted that with copies of the OT Scriptures rare, there would be more need for personal revelations of divine truth (see v. 4).

Edifieth the church. The prophet receives divine revelations, but he is merely the agent by whom these revelations are to be imparted to the church so that it may be built up.

By SdaBc