1 Corinthians 14

¹Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.

²For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit.

³But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.

⁴The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.

⁵I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified.

⁶Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?

⁷Even 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?

⁸Again, if the trumpet sounds a muffled call, who will prepare for battle?

⁹So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.

¹⁰Assuredly, there are many different languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.

¹¹If, then, I do not know the meaning of someone’s language, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me.

¹²It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church.