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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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Book Overview

1 Corinthians

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Commentaries

7

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

18th Century

Theologian

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

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

Edification (οικοδομην). Building up.

Comfort (παρακλησιν). Encouragement, calling to one's side.

<…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

19th Century

Bishop

Edification, and exhortation, and comfort.—They communed with God by the speaking with tongues; they communed with the brethren by…

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Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

Paul describes the advantages of prophesying (GK 4736). Prophecy edifies the church, whereas by speaking in tongues, one builds oneself up in seeki…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

16th Century

Theologian

He that prophesieth, speaketh unto men. “Prophecy,” he says, “is profitable to all, while a foreign language is a treasure hidden in the e…

John Gill

John Gill

On 1 Corinthians 14:3

17th Century

Pastor

But he that prophesieth Preaches, prays, or sings, in a language understood by the common people.

spea…

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On 1 Corinthians 14:1–5

17th Century

Minister

Prophesying, that is, explaining Scripture, is compared with speaking with tongues. This drew more attention than the plain interpretation of Scrip…