How does 1 Corinthians 14:22 define the purpose of tongues for unbelievers? The key verse 1 Corinthians 14:22: “Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers.” What makes tongues a sign • Supernatural speech authenticates God’s work (Acts 2:6, 11). • Jesus foretold it: “These signs will accompany those who believe… they will speak in new tongues” (Mark 16:17). • A sign points beyond itself, arresting an unbeliever’s attention. Why the sign targets unbelievers • Paul links it to Isaiah 28:11-12 (quoted in 1 Corinthians 14:21); foreign languages warned hard-hearted Israel. • Hearing an unlearned language confronts outsiders with God’s reality and, if rejected, stands as testimony against them (cf. Matthew 12:41-42). Safeguards Paul adds • Tongues must be intelligible to benefit anyone (14:9). • Interpretation supplies clarity (14:13, 27-28). • Without it, visitors think believers are “out of your mind” (14:23). Tongues contrasted with prophecy • Prophecy is clear speech that edifies believers (14:3-4). • Tongues, even when uninterpreted, remain a sign to unbelievers (14:22). • Hence Paul values prophecy higher for gathered worship (14:5). Practical take-aways • Allow tongues their biblical purpose: a Spirit-given sign that points the lost to Christ. • Seek orderly services; pair tongues with interpretation so the sign is unmistakable (14:27-28). • Pursue gifts that build up the church while still welcoming the Spirit’s signs (14:12). Summary According to 1 Corinthians 14:22, tongues function as God’s miraculous sign to grab unbelievers’ attention, echoing Isaiah’s warning and Acts’ wonder, while prophecy remains His primary tool for strengthening the faith of those already inside the family. |
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