1 Corinthians 14:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Tongues serve as a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy serves to benefit those who believe.
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:22 Mean?
Drawing on the Isaiah passage he just quoted, Paul assigns each gift its purpose. Tongues function as a sign directed toward those who do not believe, while prophecy does its work among those who already do.
The distinction guides how the gifts serve the gospel. A sign arrests attention and points beyond itself; clear prophetic speech feeds and strengthens the faithful. Paul wants each gift used where it bears fruit, never for display. The aim throughout is that both believer and unbeliever be moved toward God, the one built up, the other awakened. Every grace of the Spirit finally serves the drawing of hearts to Christ.
1 Corinthians 14:22 in the Original Language
sēmeion (σημεῖον), 'sign' -- a token or signal that points beyond itself to something God is doing.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 14:22
What does 1 Corinthians 14:22 mean?
Tongues serve as a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy serves to benefit those who believe.