1 Corinthians 14:6- “Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?”

Extended Explanation

Paul is continuing his discussion on spiritual gifts, specifically focusing on the difference between speaking in tongues and other forms of teaching that actually help people grow in their faith.

His argument is simple: if he were to come and speak in tongues without any interpretation, it would not help anyone. Instead, he highlights four things that do bring value to the church:

1. Revelation – A truth directly revealed by God.
2. Knowledge – A deeper understanding of God’s Word and His ways.
3. Prophecy – A message from God that encourages and strengthens believers.
4. Instruction – Teaching that helps people learn and apply God’s truth.

Paul is emphasizing that the goal of spiritual gifts should be to help others grow in their understanding of God. Speaking in tongues, unless it is interpreted, does not accomplish that—but teaching, prophecy, and instruction do.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was misusing spiritual gifts, particularly tongues. Many believers were speaking in tongues without interpretation, which led to confusion instead of encouragement in their gatherings. Some seemed to believe that speaking in tongues was a sign of being more spiritual, but Paul corrects this misunderstanding by emphasizing that the goal of all spiritual gifts is to build up others, not just oneself.

In the early church, prophecy and teaching were especially important because the New Testament had not yet been completed. Believers depended on Spirit-led revelation and teaching to understand God’s will. Paul reminds them that these gifts—because they bring clarity and instruction—are more beneficial than tongues unless tongues are interpreted.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important truths about the use of spiritual gifts:

1. Spiritual gifts should benefit others, not just the individual – Paul stresses that spiritual experiences should have a purpose beyond personal edification.
2. Understanding is essential for growth – Teaching, revelation, prophecy, and instruction help people grow in their faith, whereas tongues alone (without interpretation) do not.
3. True spirituality is about building up the body of Christ – It is not about seeking personal experiences but about helping others know God better.

Paul is pointing the Corinthians (and all believers) toward a mature understanding of spiritual gifts: they are meant to serve and strengthen the church, not create confusion.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses a rhetorical question in this verse to challenge the Corinthians:

• “If I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you?” – He forces them to think critically: would tongues without interpretation actually help the church? The obvious answer is no.
• “Unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?” – This list of four alternatives highlights what actually builds up the church.

Paul is using a contrast—on one side, uninterpreted tongues, which do not help others, and on the other, revelation, knowledge, prophecy, and instruction, which strengthen the church.

This verse fits into the larger theme of 1 Corinthians 14, where Paul repeatedly emphasizes that understanding is key in worship and that gifts should be used to benefit others, not just oneself.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 14:19 – “But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.” (Paul values clarity and understanding over unintelligible speech.)
• 1 Corinthians 12:7 – “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (Spiritual gifts are meant for the benefit of all believers.)
• Ephesians 4:11-12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (God gives gifts to strengthen and grow the church.)
• Colossians 3:16 – “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom.” (Teaching and instruction are central to spiritual growth.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For modern believers, this verse is a reminder that spiritual experiences should not be self-focused but should serve a greater purpose—helping others grow in their faith. Some key takeaways:

• Church gatherings should focus on clear teaching and encouragement – Paul warns against confusion in worship. Preaching, prophecy, and instruction should help people understand and grow.
• Spiritual gifts should strengthen others – If our spiritual experiences do not help or encourage others, we may need to rethink how we use them.
• We should seek to communicate God’s truth clearly – Whether we teach, encourage, or share insights from Scripture, clarity is important for spiritual growth.

Paul’s message is not against speaking in tongues, but he is urging believers to focus on what benefits the whole body of Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in several ways:

1. God wants His people to understand His truth – He does not desire confusion but clear teaching that helps people grow in faith.
2. God equips His church with the right gifts – He gives gifts like prophecy, knowledge, and instruction so that believers can be strengthened and encouraged.
3. God’s love is always outward-focused – True love is about helping and serving others, not just seeking personal experiences.

This verse shows that God’s love is not about flashy spiritual experiences but about true understanding and growth in faith.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus perfectly embodied the kind of spiritual teaching Paul is describing:

• Jesus spoke in ways people could understand – He used parables, stories, and direct teaching to reveal God’s truth (Matthew 13:34).
• Jesus brought revelation and knowledge – “Everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” (John 15:15)
• Jesus’ words built up His followers – “The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” (John 6:63)
• Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide us in truth – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (John 14:26)

Jesus’ ministry was all about bringing understanding and clarity—exactly what Paul is urging believers to focus on.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do I focus more on personal spiritual experiences, or do I seek to strengthen and encourage others?
2. How can I use my gifts in a way that helps others grow in their faith?
3. Am I drawn to spiritual experiences that make me feel good, or am I seeking to build up the body of Christ?
4. How can I make sure my words and actions bring understanding and clarity rather than confusion?
5. How does Jesus’ example challenge me to communicate God’s truth clearly and effectively?

This verse calls us to value clear teaching and spiritual gifts that build up others. When we prioritize helping and strengthening the church, we reflect the heart of Jesus and bring glory to God.