How can we ensure an interpreter is present, as instructed in 1 Corinthians 14:27? Setting the Context “If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or at most three, should speak in turn, and someone must interpret.” (1 Corinthians 14:27) Paul places the burden for interpretation on the gathering itself, not merely on the tongue-speaker. The command is explicit: “someone must interpret.” The question, then, is how we obey that directive today. The Instruction Stated • The gift of tongues is welcomed, but never without interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:5). • Interpretation makes the utterance intelligible, so the whole church is “built up” (1 Corinthians 14:12). • If no interpreter is available, the speaker is to “keep silent in the church” (1 Corinthians 14:28). Scripture leaves no loophole. Practical Steps to Secure an Interpreter 1. Anticipate the need before a service begins. – Leaders communicate in advance with those who regularly exercise the gift of tongues and the gift of interpretation. – Designate a point person who confirms availability each gathering. 2. Discern gifted individuals. – Pray and watch for consistent accuracy and edification (1 Corinthians 14:29). – Affirm those whom God has already demonstrated as reliable interpreters (Romans 12:6–8). 3. Provide biblical teaching. – Regularly revisit 1 Corinthians 14 so the congregation knows why interpretation is non-negotiable. – Clarify that tongues without interpretation cease to edify and risk confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). 4. Establish a clear protocol. – No more than two or three tongue-messages per service, each in turn, followed immediately by interpretation. – If an interpreter is not present, leadership lovingly but firmly guides the potential speaker to wait (Titus 2:15). 5. Encourage accountability. – Test interpretations by Scripture and by mature witnesses (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). – Provide feedback so both tongue-speakers and interpreters grow in accuracy and humility. Character Qualities of a Faithful Interpreter • Spiritual maturity and sound doctrine (2 Timothy 2:15) • Evident fruit of the Spirit—especially self-control and love (Galatians 5:22-23) • Submission to church leadership (Hebrews 13:17) • An evident track record of clarity and faithfulness to Scripture (Proverbs 12:17) Safeguards for Proper Order • Everything “must be done in a fitting and orderly way” (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Leaders guard the flock from counterfeit or disorderly speech (Acts 20:28-30). • The congregation remains alert, testing every word (1 John 4:1). Implications for the Whole Body When interpretation accompanies tongues: – Unbelievers hear intelligible truth and are convicted (1 Corinthians 14:24-25). – Believers receive teaching, encouragement, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3). – God’s character of order and peace is displayed (1 Corinthians 14:33). Encouragement for Implementation Take Paul’s words at face value: tongues are a genuine gift, but the obligation to interpret is just as real. By planning ahead, recognizing Spirit-given gifts, and maintaining clear biblical protocols, any congregation can honor 1 Corinthians 14:27 and ensure that every utterance builds up the church to the glory of God. |
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