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But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, exhortation, and consolation.
Verse Takeaways
1
Prophecy's Purpose: The Church
Commentators unanimously highlight that prophecy, unlike the gift of tongues, is directed 'unto men' for the benefit of the whole church. Its value lies in its intelligibility. Scholars like Matthew Henry and John Calvin stress that a spiritual gift's worth is measured by its usefulness in building up the community, not just the individual. Prophecy serves the congregation by being understandable.
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1 Corinthians
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8
18th Century
Presbyterian
But he that prophesieth. (1 Corinthians 14:1). He who speaks under the influence of inspiration in the common language of his …
Edification (οικοδομην). Building up.
Comfort (παρακλησιν). Encouragement, calling to one's side.
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19th Century
Anglican
Edification, and exhortation, and comfort.—They communed with God by the speaking with tongues; they communed with the brethren by…
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Paul describes the advantages of prophesying (GK 4736). Prophecy edifies the church, whereas by speaking in tongues, one builds oneself up in seeki…
16th Century
Protestant
He that prophesieth, speaketh unto men. “Prophecy,” he says, “is profitable to all, while a foreign language is a treasure hidden in the e…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
But he that prophesieth Preaches, prays, or sings, in a language understood by the common people.
spea…
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Prophesying, that is, explaining Scripture, is compared with speaking with tongues. This drew more attention than the plain interpretation of Scrip…
13th Century
Catholic
Having stated that love surpasses the other gifts, the Apostle then compares the other gifts to each other, showing the excellence of prophecy over…