1 Corinthians 14 Summary

Paul instructs the church to follow charity and desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, which he exalts above speaking in unknown tongues. He explains that one who speaks in an unknown tongue speaks to God and not to men, whereas one who prophesies speaks edification, exhortation, and comfort to the church. Paul uses illustrations of instruments and trumpets showing that without distinct sounds, one cannot understand the meaning; likewise, unintelligible tongue-speaking profits nothing unless interpreted. He prescribes order for church gatherings: let two or three speak in tongues with interpretation, let prophets speak two or three with others judging, and let all be done decently and in order for the edifying of the church. He commands that women remain silent in churches, as they are commanded to be under obedience, and if they desire to learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home.