For he who (A)speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks (B)edification and (C)exhortation and comfort to men. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; [a]for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 14:5 NU and

For anyone who speaks in a tongue[a](A) does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them;(B) they utter mysteries(C) by the Spirit. But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening,(D) encouraging(E) and comfort. Anyone who speaks in a tongue(F) edifies(G) themselves, but the one who prophesies(H) edifies the church. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues,[b] but I would rather have you prophesy.(I) The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues,[c] unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.(J)

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 14:2 Or in another language; also in verses 4, 13, 14, 19, 26 and 27
  2. 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39
  3. 1 Corinthians 14:5 Or in other languages; also in verses 6, 18, 22, 23 and 39