1 Corinthians 14:2-3 For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3 On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.
Paul begins to define or put limits on the gift of tongues. First, he states that speaking in a tongue is speaking to God and not to people. The reason for that is because nobody can understand what the person is speaking. The spiritual language has no benefit to the people around because it does not communicate anything that others can understand. The only benefit tongues has is for the one who is speaking. Thus, it is all about the self and not others. Paul has problems with things that are selfish and do not lead to people putting their faith in Jesus.
Prophecy, however, is spoken to people in ways that they understand. Prophecy has three benefits listed in this verse. First, it builds people up. “Builds up” comes from a word related to constructing a house. Prophecy helps people grow stronger in their faith and relationship with God. It draws people to God by speaking forth words from God. Second, prophecy encourages. This is the same word used for the Holy Spirit in John 15. Prophecy can encourage, comfort, and help a person through challenging times. It renews hope by pointing people to the true source of our hope. Third, it consoles and comforts especially those who are grieving or suffering. When God speaks, it is always for our good. Prophecy speaks forth God’s words of comfort and peace to us and we experience the power of these words through faith and submission. Paul is setting out the stakes in these verses. There are two different gifts with two different outcomes. Paul will show that one way is better and will lead people more to God.
For older posts, click here.