1 Corinthians 14:39

Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

1 Corinthians 14:39 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes Paul’s extended teaching on spiritual gifts in corporate worship. The word “wherefore” signals that he is drawing his argument to a close, summarizing the instructions given throughout 1 Corinthians 14. He returns to the exhortation that opened the chapter in 1 Corinthians 14:1, where he urged believers to follow charity and desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. This bookend structure frames the entire chapter with twin commands: earnestly desire prophecy and do not forbid speaking in tongues.

Meaning

The Greek word translated “covet” is zēloute, meaning to earnestly desire, strive for, or be zealous for. This is not a passive wish but an active pursuit. Paul’s instruction to covet prophecy reflects his earlier teaching in 1 Corinthians 14:5, where he explains that prophecy is preferable because it edifies the church, while one who speaks in an unknown tongue edifies himself unless there is interpretation. Prophecy is the ability to receive and communicate a divinely inspired message from God to the church, and Paul emphasizes its importance for the edification and growth of the Christian community.

The second command, “forbid not to speak with tongues,” is a direct prohibition against suppressing this gift. Speaking in tongues refers to the supernatural ability to speak in languages unknown to the speaker but known to God or to others gifted with interpretation. Paul had previously highlighted the importance of interpretation, emphasizing that if no interpreter was present, tongues should be done privately before God (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). By instructing believers not to forbid tongues, Paul acknowledges the value of this gift while also emphasizing the need for order and understanding in the church.

Biblical connections

Paul’s balanced approach prevents two errors: neglecting the more edifying gift of prophecy and despising the legitimate gift of tongues. His teaching here is consistent with his earlier statement in 1 Corinthians 14:5, “I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied,” showing that he did not hold tongues in contempt but recognized its proper place. The immediate context includes verse 40, “Let all things be done decently and in order,” which shows that Paul’s concern is not to eliminate tongues but to regulate their use for the church’s edification.

Application

Paul addresses the Corinthian believers as “brethren,” indicating a familial relationship within the body of Christ. This verse reminds believers of the significance of the gift of prophecy and the importance of not suppressing the use of the gift of speaking in tongues. Paul’s intention is to foster a balanced approach to the exercise of spiritual gifts, promoting both the building up of the individual believer and the edification of the entire Christian community. Believers are called to embrace and utilize all the gifts of the Spirit in a way that promotes edification and builds up the church as a whole.

Reflection

Paul’s concluding exhortation calls the church to maintain both zeal and order in spiritual matters. The command to covet prophecy directs believers toward the gift that most benefits others, while the command not to forbid tongues protects the legitimate exercise of a genuine spiritual gift. Together, these instructions guard against both neglect and excess, pointing the church toward a mature and balanced practice of the gifts the Spirit gives.