1 Corinthians 14:22
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.
1 Corinthians 14:22 (KJV)
Context
This verse concludes Paul’s argument about the purpose of spiritual gifts in corporate worship, specifically contrasting tongues and prophecy. In the preceding verse, Paul quotes Isaiah 28:11-12, where God says He will speak to His people through foreign lips, yet they will not listen. The sign of tongues, therefore, is connected to judgment and unbelief, serving as a warning to those who reject God’s message. The church in Corinth was marked by disorder and the misuse of spiritual gifts, leading Paul to provide guidelines for their proper use and edification of the body of Christ.
Meaning
The first part of the verse states, “Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not.” Speaking in tongues, in this context, refers to the supernatural ability to speak in a language unknown to the speaker but understandable to others. Paul emphasizes that this gift is intended as a sign for unbelievers, serving as a means to communicate the message of God’s truth and draw non-believers to faith. The sign of tongues is not for believers’ edification in the assembly; it is a sign to unbelief.
The second part of the verse states, “but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.” Prophesying refers to the ability to speak a divinely-inspired message under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Unlike tongues, which primarily function as a sign for unbelievers, the gift of prophecy is primarily for the benefit of believers. It serves to edify, encourage, and strengthen the faith of those who already believe.
Biblical connections
The immediate context in verses 23-25 clarifies this distinction: if unbelievers enter a gathering where all speak in tongues, they will think the believers are mad; but if all prophesy, an unbeliever is convicted and the secrets of his heart are revealed, leading him to worship God. Thus, the purpose of tongues is not to serve as a sign of salvation for believers, nor is it primarily for their edification in the assembly; it is a sign to unbelievers. Prophecy, however, serves the church by edifying believers.
Application
Paul’s intention in this verse is to emphasize the importance of using spiritual gifts in a way that is both edifying and effective in reaching out to different audiences. While tongues can be a powerful sign to unbelievers, the gift of prophecy is more directly beneficial to those who already believe. This highlights the need for discernment and the responsible exercise of spiritual gifts within the church. The distinction is not that tongues are evil, but that their proper function is as a sign to unbelief, whereas prophecy is the gift that strengthens the faith of the church.
Reflection
By understanding these purposes, believers can seek to exercise their spiritual gifts in a way that glorifies God, edifies the church, and effectively communicates the message of the Gospel. The verse underscores the principle that spiritual gifts must be exercised for the edification of the whole body, not for personal display.
