1 Corinthians 14:19

But in the church it would be better for me to make use of five words of which the sense was clear, so that others might have profit, than ten thousand words in a strange tongue.

Bible in Basic English

In The King James Version

Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

In Context

18I give praise to God that I am able to make use of tongues more than you all:

20My brothers, do not be children in mind: in evil be as little children, but in mind be of full growth.

Read all of 1 Corinthians 14

Cross References

1 Corinthians 14:21In the law it is said, By men of other tongues and by strange lips will my words come to this people; and not even so will they give ear to me, says the Lord.

Matthew Henry on 1 Corinthians 14:16-21

On Spiritual Gifts. ( a. d. 57.) 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. 16 Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? 17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. 18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: 19 Yet in… Read the whole commentary →

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