1 Corinthians 14:2-4

1599 Geneva Bible

Footnotes

1. 1 Corinthians 14:2 He reprehendeth their perverse judgment touching the gift of tongues. For why was it given? to wit, to the intent that the mysteries of God might be the better known to a greater sort. Thereby it is evident that Prophecy, whereunto the gift of tongues ought to serve, is better than this: and therefore the Corinthians did judge amiss, in that they made more account of the gift of tongues, than of prophesying: because forsooth the gift of tongues was a thing more to be bragged of. And hereupon followed another abuse of the gift of tongues, in that the Corinthians used tongues in the Congregation, without an interpreter. Which thing although it might be done to some profit of him, that spake them, yet he corrupted the right use of that gift, because there came thereby no profit to the hearers: and common assemblies were instituted and appointed not for any private man’s commodity, but for the profit of the whole company.
2. 1 Corinthians 14:2 A strange language, which no man can understand without an interpreter.
3. 1 Corinthians 14:2 By that inspiration which he has received of the Spirit, which notwithstanding he abuseth, when he speaketh mysteries which none of the company can understand.
4. 1 Corinthians 14:3 Which may further men in the study of godliness.
5. 1 Corinthians 14:4 The company.