Keraia
1 Corinthians 14

1 Corinthians 14:7

Prophecy and Tongues · 1 Corinthians 14:1–25
Read 1 Corinthians 14

Translations

Modern
Even in the case of lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone recognize the tune they are playing unless the notes are distinct?
Traditional
And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
Literal
Even lifeless things giving a sound—whether the flute or harp—unless they give distinction to the sounds, how will it be known what is being piped or being harped?
Latin
Tamen quæ sine anima sunt vocem dantia, sive tibia, sive cithara; nisi distinctionem sonituum dederint, quomodo scietur id quod canitur, aut quod citharizatur?

Original

Greek
English
Even in the case of lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone recognize the tune they are playing unless the notes are distinct?

Notes

1 Corinthians 14:7–12

A message must be clear to communicate well.

1 Corinthians 14:1–25

After highlighting the supreme importance of love (chapter 13), Paul discusses spiritual gifts again. He defines their value by how much they help others, which reflects love (chapter 13). With this in mind, Paul compares the overvalued gift of speaking in tongues with the more helpful gift of prophecy.

1 Corinthians 12:1–14:40

The church in Corinth focused too much on the gift of speaking in tongues (see 14:1–25, 27; compare the lists in 12:8–10, 28, where Paul lists tongues last). Paul offers advice to correct their understanding of the value and use of spiritual gifts.

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Charismata Church Meetings First Letter to the Corinthians Music Musical Instruments Mystery Prophecy Spirit of God

Topics

Harp: Discordant Language: Power of Speaking Different: Sometimes Abused Language: Speaking in Inspired |Tongues| Forbidden Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Tongues (The Gift): The Miraculous Gift Granted to some Early Christians