What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 14:13? Therefore • Paul is drawing a conclusion from the preceding verses (1 Corinthians 14:6–12) where he argues that gifts are meant to build up the church. • The word signals a practical takeaway: everything said next flows from the need for clarity and edification, echoing 1 Corinthians 14:12, “Since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel in gifts that build up the church”. the one who speaks in a tongue • This refers to believers who have received the spiritual gift of speaking in languages they have not learned—an ability given by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10). • Paul never discourages the gift itself (see 1 Corinthians 14:5), but he does insist that its use in gathered worship must benefit others. • Without understanding, listeners are “foreigners” to the speaker (1 Corinthians 14:11), so the gift’s public exercise needs a companion gift: interpretation. should pray • The instruction is personal and ongoing—those who use the gift are responsible to seek God’s help for its proper function. • Prayer is portrayed as the means by which the Spirit equips and directs believers (James 1:5; Luke 11:13). • By telling tongue-speakers to pray, Paul ties supernatural ability to humble dependence, guarding against pride and confusion. that he may interpret • Interpretation turns a private blessing into corporate edification. When the meaning is clear, everyone can affirm, “Amen” (1 Corinthians 14:16). • Paul later regulates the process: if there is no interpreter present, the speaker should remain silent in the church and speak to himself and to God (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). • This safeguard maintains order and love, fulfilling the guideline that “all things must be done for edification” (1 Corinthians 14:26). • The pattern mirrors Joseph interpreting dreams (Genesis 41:15-16) and Daniel interpreting visions (Daniel 2:19-23), showing that God often gives both revelation and interpretation through yielded servants. summary 1 Corinthians 14:13 teaches that anyone blessed with the gift of tongues must actively seek interpretation so the entire church benefits. The verse ties spiritual experience to responsibility, prayer, and love, ensuring every gift fulfills God’s purpose of building up His people. |
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