1 Corinthians 14:4 Meaning and Explanation
“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The one speaking in a tongue strengthens himself, while the one who prophesies strengthens the whole congregation.
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:4 Mean?
Paul draws the contrast to its point. He is still weighing the two gifts not by rank but by reach: how far the good of each one travels among the people who have come together.
Personal devotion matters; the tongue does build up the one who prays. But the assembly gathers as a body, and Paul keeps lifting our eyes to the many rather than the one. To strengthen the church is the higher service, because love seeks the good of others before its own. The gift that overflows to a brother carries the heart of Christ, who gave Himself for all.
1 Corinthians 14:4 in the Original Language
oikodomeō (οἰκοδομέω), 'edify' -- literally to build a house, to construct and strengthen, used of building up the community of believers.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 14:4
What does 1 Corinthians 14:4 mean?
The one speaking in a tongue strengthens himself, while the one who prophesies strengthens the whole congregation.