What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 14:27?

If anyone speaks in a tongue

• Paul recognizes the legitimate gift of tongues given by the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:10).

• The statement assumes a corporate gathering where gifts are exercised for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7; 14:26).

• Scripture treats the supernatural ability to speak unlearned languages as real and purposeful, never as chaotic or self-centered (Mark 16:17; Acts 10:46).

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two, or at most three

• The Spirit’s gifts are manifold, yet Paul places a clear numerical limit to promote edification (1 Corinthians 14:29).

• Limiting the speakers protects the congregation from fatigue and confusion, affirming that “God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

• By capping participation, every gift—including prophecy, teaching, and encouragement—has space to flourish (Romans 12:6-8).

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should speak in turn

• Orderly succession ensures each message is heard, weighed, and understood (1 Corinthians 14:31).

• Simultaneous speaking would violate the biblical principle that “all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner” (1 Corinthians 14:40).

• Taking turns reflects Christlike humility and mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3-4).

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and someone must interpret

• Interpretation translates the tongue so everyone benefits; without it, listeners remain unedified (1 Corinthians 14:5, 13).

• The requirement safeguards against meaningless display and anchors the gathering in intelligible truth (Nehemiah 8:8; 1 Corinthians 14:28).

• Interpretation transforms a private manifestation into a corporate blessing, fulfilling the purpose of spiritual gifts: the building up of the body (Ephesians 4:11-12).

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summary

1 Corinthians 14:27 gives practical, Spirit-directed boundaries for the public exercise of tongues: allow the gift, limit the number, maintain orderly sequence, and insist on interpretation. Obeying these instructions honors the God of peace, edifies the church, and showcases gifts as channels of love rather than confusion.