1 Corinthians 14:30

If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.

1 Corinthians 14:30 (KJV)

Context

Paul writes here within a longer instruction about spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church, especially prophecy and speaking in tongues. In the surrounding verses, he stresses that worship should build up the church and be marked by order. Verse 30 addresses a specific moment: while one person is speaking or prophesying, another believer seated nearby receives a revelation from God.

The phrase “If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by” points to a fresh divine communication given to someone else in the meeting. Paul does not define the exact nature of the revelation, but it clearly comes from God and is meant to be shared. The command that follows is direct: “let the first hold his peace.” The one already speaking must stop and allow the new message to be delivered.

Meaning

This instruction guards both order and edification. Paul’s concern is not to discourage the Spirit’s work but to ensure that every revelation is heard and weighed. The first speaker yields, not because his message is unimportant, but because the Spirit may be giving a further word through another. This requires humility and mutual submission among believers.

The verse also implies that revelations can come while someone else is still speaking. Therefore, the congregation must remain attentive and flexible, ready to receive what the Spirit is saying through any member. The goal is that all things are done decently and for the common good, as Paul states in the surrounding passage.

Biblical connections

This principle of yielding reflects the broader New Testament call for believers to prefer one another in love and to seek the church’s edification above personal prominence. Paul’s instruction here is a practical expression of that mutual deference within the worship setting.

Application

In practice, this verse encourages churches to create space for the Spirit to speak through different members. It calls speakers to be willing to pause, and it calls listeners to be ready to receive a word from another. Order and edification remain the guiding goals, so that the whole congregation is strengthened.

Reflection

This verse challenges personal pride and the desire to finish one’s own message. It invites believers to trust that God may speak through others and to value the Spirit’s leading above personal preference. Such yielding is not weakness but spiritual maturity, serving the peace and growth of the body.