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Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 14 - Verse 19

14:19
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

Meaning

Paul's words in this verse from 1 Corinthians emphasize the importance of clarity and understanding in communication within the context of the church. He values speaking in a way that others can comprehend and learn from, rather than speaking in tongues that may not be understood by all members of the congregation. This highlights the significance of effective teaching and sharing of knowledge within the church community. By prioritizing meaningful and intelligible communication, Paul emphasizes the need for building each other up through education and guidance. His preference for a few words spoken with understanding over a multitude of words in an unknown tongue underscores the value of clarity and comprehension in spreading the teachings of the faith.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 1 Corinthians, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of clear communication in the context of the church. He expresses a preference for speaking a few words with understanding rather than speaking in tongues without interpretation. This distinction highlights the value of edifying the congregation through intelligible teaching. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the significance of edification within the church body. It emphasizes the need for communication that is both clear and meaningful in order to effectively convey spiritual truths and edify believers. By choosing to prioritize understanding over verbosity, Paul emphasizes the importance of speaking in a way that benefits and instructs others. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of communication in the context of Christian community and the role it plays in building up the church.

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