1 Corinthians 14:6-12
International Standard Version
6 Indeed, brothers, if I come to you speaking in foreign languages, what good will I be to you unless I speak to you in some revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or teaching? 7 In the same way, lifeless instruments like the flute or harp produce sounds. But if there’s no difference in the notes, how can a person tell what tune is being played? 8 For example, if a bugle doesn’t sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? 9 In the same way, unless you speak an intelligible message with your language, how will anyone know what is being said? You’ll be talking into the air!
10 There are, I suppose, many different languages[a] in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. 11 If I don’t know the meaning of the language,[b] I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker will be a foreigner to me. 12 In the same way, since you’re so desirous of spiritual gifts, you must keep on desiring them for building up the church.
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- 1 Corinthians 14:10 Or sounds
- 1 Corinthians 14:11 Or sound
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