Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Corinthians 14:3

"But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men edification, and exhortation, and consolation." — 1 Corinthians 14:3 (ASV)

But he that prophesieth. (1 Corinthians 14:1). He who speaks under the influence of inspiration in the common language of his hearers.

This seems to be the difference between those who spoke in foreign languages and those who prophesied. Both were under the influence of the Holy Spirit; both might speak the same truths; and both might occupy an equally important and necessary place in the church.

However, the language of the one was intelligible to the church, while the other's was not. The one was designed to edify the church; the other, to address those who spoke foreign tongues or to demonstrate, by the power of speaking foreign languages, that the religion was from God.

Speaketh unto men. So as to be understood by those who were present.

To edification.

He speaks so as to enlighten and strengthen the church.

And exhortation.

He applies and enforces the practical duties of religion, and urges motives for a holy life.

And comfort. Encouragement. That is, he presents the promises and hopes of the gospel; the various considerations adapted to administer comfort in the time of trial. The other might do this, but it would be in a foreign language, and would be useless to the church.