1 Corinthians 14:40
New International Version
But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.

New Living Translation
But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.

English Standard Version
But all things should be done decently and in order.

Berean Standard Bible
But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner.

Berean Literal Bible
But let all things be done properly and with order.

King James Bible
Let all things be done decently and in order.

New King James Version
Let all things be done decently and in order.

New American Standard Bible
But all things must be done properly and in an orderly way.

NASB 1995
But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.

NASB 1977
But let all things be done properly and in an orderly manner.

Legacy Standard Bible
But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.

Amplified Bible
But all things must be done appropriately and in an orderly manner.

Christian Standard Bible
But everything is to be done decently and in order.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
But everything must be done decently and in order.

American Standard Version
But let all things be done decently and in order.

Contemporary English Version
But do everything properly and in order.

English Revised Version
But let all things be done decently and in order.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Everything must be done in a proper and orderly way.

Good News Translation
Everything must be done in a proper and orderly way.

International Standard Version
But everything must be done in a proper and orderly way.

Majority Standard Bible
But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner.

NET Bible
And do everything in a decent and orderly manner.

New Heart English Bible
Let all things be done decently and in order.

Webster's Bible Translation
Let all things be done decently, and in order.

Weymouth New Testament
only let everything be done in a becoming and orderly manner.

World English Bible
Let all things be done decently and in order.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
let all things be done decently and in order.

Berean Literal Bible
But let all things be done properly and with order.

Young's Literal Translation
let all things be done decently and in order.

Smith's Literal Translation
Let all things be becomingly and according to order.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
But let all things be done decently, and according to order.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But let everything be done respectfully and according to proper order.

New American Bible
but everything must be done properly and in order.

New Revised Standard Version
but all things should be done decently and in order.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Let all things be done decently and in order.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But let everything be done with decorum and with order.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Let all things be done with propriety, and in good order.

Godbey New Testament
but let all things be done decently and in order.

Haweis New Testament
Let all things be done with propriety, and orderly.

Mace New Testament
let all things be done with decency, and without disorder.

Weymouth New Testament
only let everything be done in a becoming and orderly manner.

Worrell New Testament
But let all things be done decently and in order.

Worsley New Testament
but let all things be done decently and in order.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Orderly Worship
39So, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner.

Cross References
Colossians 2:5
For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ.

Titus 1:5
The reason I left you in Crete was that you would set in order what was unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.

1 Corinthians 11:34
If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you come together it will not result in judgment. And when I come, I will give instructions about the remaining matters.

1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace—as in all the churches of the saints.

1 Timothy 3:15
in case I am delayed, so that you will know how each one must conduct himself in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.

1 Peter 4:11
If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Romans 12:17
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.

Philippians 1:27
Nevertheless, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending together as one for the faith of the gospel,

2 Thessalonians 3:6
Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from any brother who leads an undisciplined life that is not in keeping with the tradition you received from us.

1 Thessalonians 5:14
And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.

Ephesians 4:12
to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ,

1 Timothy 2:2
for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.

James 3:17
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.

1 Peter 3:8
Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tenderhearted and humble.

Romans 13:13
Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.


Treasury of Scripture

Let all things be done decently and in order.

1 Corinthians 14:26-33
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying…

1 Corinthians 11:34
And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

Romans 13:13
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

Jump to Previous
Decently Fitting Manner Order Ordered Orderly Properly Right Way
Jump to Next
Decently Fitting Manner Order Ordered Orderly Properly Right Way
1 Corinthians 14
1. Prophecy is commended,
2. and preferred before speaking in tongues,
6. by a comparison drawn from musical instruments.
12. Both must be referred to edification,
22. as to their true and proper end.
26. The true use of each is taught,
27. and the abuse rebuked.
34. Women in the churches.














But everything
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the instruction, indicating that all aspects of church life and worship are under consideration. In the context of 1 Corinthians 14, Paul addresses the use of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and speaking in tongues. The broader context of the letter shows Paul's concern for unity and edification within the church (1 Corinthians 12:7, 14:12). The use of "everything" suggests that no part of worship or church activity is exempt from the guidelines he is about to set forth.

must be done
The imperative "must be done" underscores the necessity and non-negotiable nature of the instruction. This reflects the apostolic authority with which Paul writes, as he seeks to correct and guide the Corinthian church. The historical context reveals that the Corinthian church was experiencing disorder and confusion, particularly in their worship services (1 Corinthians 14:26-33). This command is a corrective measure to ensure that their gatherings are beneficial and edifying for all.

in a proper
The term "proper" suggests appropriateness and suitability, aligning with the cultural and social norms of the time. In the Greco-Roman world, order and decorum were highly valued, and this would have resonated with the Corinthian audience. Biblically, the concept of propriety is linked to holiness and reverence, as seen in the orderly worship prescribed in the Old Testament (Exodus 40:16-33). This reflects God's character as a God of order, not chaos (1 Corinthians 14:33).

and orderly manner.
"Orderly manner" implies a structured and harmonious approach to worship and church activities. This is consistent with the biblical theme of God bringing order out of chaos, as seen in the creation narrative (Genesis 1). The historical context of Corinth, a bustling and diverse city, may have contributed to the disorderly conduct in the church. Paul’s instruction here is to ensure that worship services reflect the peace and order of God’s kingdom, promoting edification and understanding among believers (1 Corinthians 14:26, 33). This also prefigures the ultimate order and peace that will be established in the eschatological fulfillment of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Apostle Paul
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul was addressing the church in Corinth, providing guidance on spiritual gifts and orderly worship.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and cultural influences, which often led to challenges within the early church.

3. Corinthian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, a community of believers struggling with issues of division, immorality, and disorder in worship.

4. Spiritual Gifts
The context of this verse is Paul's teaching on the use of spiritual gifts within the church, emphasizing the need for order.

5. Worship Gatherings
The setting for Paul's instructions, where believers gathered to worship, pray, and exercise spiritual gifts.
Teaching Points
Order Reflects God's Nature
God is a God of order, and our worship should reflect His character. This means organizing our services and using our gifts in a way that honors Him.

Edification of the Church
The purpose of order is to build up the church. When things are done properly, everyone is edified, and God is glorified.

Respect for Others
Orderly conduct in worship shows respect for fellow believers, allowing everyone to participate and benefit from the service.

Discipline in Worship
Just as discipline is required in personal spiritual growth, it is also necessary in corporate worship to maintain focus on God.

Balance of Freedom and Order
While the Spirit gives freedom, it is not a license for chaos. True freedom in the Spirit is expressed through orderly worship.(40) Let all things be done decently.--The former verse reiterates in a condensed sentence the principles laid down regarding the gifts in the first part of the chapter (1Corinthians 14:1-25). This verse similarly deals with the general principle laid down in the latter part of the chapter regarding the style and order of public worship. The object of all church assemblies is to be the building up of the Body of Christ, which is His Church; and therefore seemliness and ordered regularity are absolutely necessary to this end. Here again, as in so many other instances in this Epistle, while the particular and unique circumstances which called forth the apostolic instructions have for centuries passed away, the writings of St. Paul are of permanent and abiding application, because of the general and eternal principles on which his instructions are based. The strange outbursts of incoherent fanaticism which have occurred from time to time in the after-history of the Church are condemned by the principle with which St. Paul combatted the disorder of the gift of tongues in Corinth; and the practice of the Roman Church, in performing her public services in a tongue not "understanded of the people," is at variance with the principle which in this chapter he reiterates with varied emphasis--that all public utterance of prayer and praise should be such as those present can join in, not only with emotional heart but with clear and understanding intellect.

Verse 40. - Let all things. The "but" of the original should not be omitted. It is a final caution against the abuse of the permission accorded in the last clause. Decently; that is, "with decorum." Thus Milton uses the term —

"... and held
Before his decent steps a silver wand."
In Romans 13:13 and 1 Thessalonians 4:12 it is translated "honestly," i.e. honourably. In order. Time, proportion, regulation, self suppression, are as necessary in worship as in "the music of men's lives."



Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
But
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

everything
πάντα (panta)
Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

must be done
γινέσθω (ginesthō)
Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1096: A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.

in a proper
εὐσχημόνως (euschēmonōs)
Adverb
Strong's 2156: Becomingly, decorously, decently. Adverb from euschemon; decorously.

and
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

orderly [manner].
τάξιν (taxin)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 5010: From tasso; regular arrangement, i.e. fixed succession, official dignity.


Links
1 Corinthians 14:40 NIV
1 Corinthians 14:40 NLT
1 Corinthians 14:40 ESV
1 Corinthians 14:40 NASB
1 Corinthians 14:40 KJV

1 Corinthians 14:40 BibleApps.com
1 Corinthians 14:40 Biblia Paralela
1 Corinthians 14:40 Chinese Bible
1 Corinthians 14:40 French Bible
1 Corinthians 14:40 Catholic Bible

NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 14:40 Let all things be done decently (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor)
1 Corinthians 14:39
Top of Page
Top of Page