How does this verse connect with the Great Commission's call to teach? Five Clear Words in Corinth “Yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.” (1 Corinthians 14:19) Why Paul’s Preference Echoes the Great Commission • Jesus’ parting command was to “make disciples… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). • Teaching demands comprehension. Paul’s five understandable words accomplish Christ’s mandate far better than thousands no one can grasp. • Both passages prize transformed obedience—people can obey only what they clearly understand. Shared Priorities in Both Texts • Clarity over spectacle – 1 Corinthians 14 highlights intelligible speech; Matthew 28 requires clear instruction. • Building up the hearers – “Edification” (1 Corinthians 14:12) matches “make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). • Mind and message working together – Paul speaks “with my mind” (1 Corinthians 14:19); Jesus commands teaching “all I have commanded” (Matthew 28:20). Supporting Passages that Tighten the Connection • Acts 2:42 — “They were devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching.” • Colossians 1:28 — “We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom.” • 2 Timothy 2:2 — “Entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” • Ephesians 4:11-12 — Christ gave “teachers, to equip the saints.” Practical Takeaways for Modern Disciple-Makers • Value clarity whenever the church gathers; plain speech fulfills Christ’s commission. • Let every lesson aim at obedience, not mere information. • Measure effectiveness by how well listeners can pass truth to others (2 Timothy 2:2). • Resist the pull toward impressive but opaque communication; five clear words can change a life. |
    |