1 Corinthians 14:4
He who, when speaking, uses the gift of ‘tongues’ builds up his own faith, while he who preaches builds up the faith of the Church.
Twentieth Century New Testament
In The King James Version
He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
In Context
Cross References
Mark 16:17Moreover these signs shall attend those who believe. In my Name they shall drive out demons; they shall speak with ‘tongues’;
1 Corinthians 13:2Even though I have the gift of preaching, and fathom all hidden truths and all the depths of knowledge; even though I have such faith as might move mountains, yet have not Love, I am nothing!
1 Corinthians 14:5Now I want you all to speak in ‘tongues,’ but much more I wish that you should preach. A Preacher is of more account than he who speaks in ‘tongues,’ unless he interprets his words, so that the faith of the Church may be built up.
1 Corinthians 14:17Your thanksgiving may be excellent, but the other is not helped by it.
1 Corinthians 14:26What do I suggest, then, Brothers? Whenever you meet for worship, each of you comes, either with a hymn, or a lesson, or a revelation, or the gift of ‘tongues,’ or the interpretation of them; let everything be directed to the building up of faith.
Matthew Henry on 1 Corinthians 14:2-6
On Spiritual Gifts. ( a. d. 57.) 1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather… Read the whole commentary →