1 Corinthians 14:22 – “Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul explains the purpose of tongues and prophecy within the church.

• Tongues are a sign for unbelievers. This means that speaking in tongues is meant to serve as a signal or message for those outside the faith.
• Prophecy is for believers. This means that clear, understandable teaching and revelation from God are intended to strengthen those who already believe.

Paul is making a distinction between two types of communication from God:

1. Tongues – A supernatural gift where someone speaks in a language they don’t know. It can serve as a sign to unbelievers, but only if it is used properly (with interpretation).
2. Prophecy – The ability to speak a message from God in a clear and understandable way. This benefits believers, helping them grow in faith.

Paul’s main point is that in a church setting, clear communication is more valuable than dramatic signs. While tongues may be impressive, prophecy actually builds up the church.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was misusing the gift of tongues, treating it as a mark of spiritual superiority. Some believers were speaking in tongues without interpretation, which led to confusion rather than clarity.

• In Acts 2:1-11, tongues were first given at Pentecost. There, they served as a sign to unbelievers—people from different nations heard the gospel in their own language.
• But in Corinth, tongues were being used in a way that did not help either believers or unbelievers.

Paul corrects this by saying that tongues are meant to be a sign for those outside the church, not something believers should focus on for their own sake. In contrast, prophecy strengthens the faith of those already inside the church.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key truths:

1. Spiritual gifts have specific purposes. Not every gift is meant for every situation—tongues and prophecy serve different roles.
2. Signs are for the unbelieving world, but God’s Word is for His people. Throughout the Bible, miracles and signs were used to draw unbelievers to God, but true faith is built on understanding His Word.
3. The goal of church gatherings is to build up believers. While signs can be useful, the main purpose of Christian worship is to teach, encourage, and strengthen faith.

Paul’s words challenge believers to think about how their use of spiritual gifts affects both outsiders and fellow Christians.

Literary Analysis

Paul structures this verse as a parallel contrast:

• “Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers.”
• “Prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers but for believers.”

By setting up two opposing ideas, Paul clarifies how each gift should be used:

• Tongues = for outsiders, as a sign.
• Prophecy = for insiders, to strengthen faith.

Paul’s word choice is deliberate—he does not say tongues save unbelievers but that they serve as a sign to them. The emphasis is on what is helpful in different contexts.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 2:4-11 – Tongues at Pentecost were a sign to unbelievers, allowing them to hear the gospel in their own language.
• Isaiah 28:11-12 – Paul referenced this earlier (1 Corinthians 14:21) to show that foreign languages were used as a sign in the Old Testament.
• 1 Corinthians 14:3 – Prophecy strengthens, encourages, and comforts believers.
• 1 Corinthians 14:26 – Everything done in church should build up the body of Christ.
• John 20:29 – Jesus told Thomas that faith does not require signs—true belief is based on trusting God’s Word.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For modern believers, this verse is a reminder to focus on what builds up faith:

1. Clarity is more important than spectacle. While dramatic signs may grab attention, clear teaching is what strengthens believers.
2. The church’s mission is both outward and inward. We must reach the lost (tongues as a sign for unbelievers) but also nurture and grow those already in the faith (prophecy for believers).
3. Spiritual gifts should be used wisely. We should ask: “Is this helping people grow closer to God, or is it just drawing attention to the experience itself?”

Paul’s teaching encourages discernment—spiritual gifts should be used in ways that align with God’s purpose.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He communicates clearly with both believers and unbelievers:

• God provides signs for those who need them. At times, God gives supernatural signs to draw people to Himself (such as tongues at Pentecost).
• God speaks clearly to His children. He does not want His followers to be confused—He provides clear guidance through prophecy and His Word.
• God’s goal is always to build up, not to confuse. The misuse of tongues in Corinth caused disorder, but God’s love brings clarity and encouragement.

This verse reflects God’s heart for both the lost and the saved—He reaches unbelievers with signs but nurtures believers with truth.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect example of speaking both to unbelievers and believers:

• Jesus performed signs for unbelievers. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and performed miracles to show people who He was (John 20:30-31).
• Jesus taught clearly to strengthen believers. He explained the Scriptures to His disciples so they could grow in faith (Luke 24:27).
• Jesus warned against chasing signs. In Matthew 12:39, He rebuked those who demanded miracles instead of believing His words.

Paul’s teaching about tongues and prophecy reflects Jesus’ balance—God uses signs to draw people in, but real faith is built on His Word.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you focus more on spiritual experiences or on understanding and applying God’s truth?
2. How can you use your spiritual gifts in a way that builds up other believers?
3. Have you ever seen a church setting where signs and wonders were emphasized over clear teaching? How did that affect your faith?
4. What are ways you can help unbelievers see God’s power, while also helping believers grow in faith?
5. How does Jesus’ example challenge you to balance reaching the lost with strengthening the saved?