1 Corinthians 14:22-25 (WEL) So then, unknown languages are a sign to those who don’t believe, not to those who believe, but prophesying is for those who believe, not for those who don’t believe. 23 Therefore, if the whole congregation is gathered in one place and all speak in unknown languages, and some come in who are unlearned or unbelievers, won’t they say you are insane? 24 But if all prophesy and some unbeliever or untaught [person] comes in, he is convicted by all and examined by all. 25 So in this way the secrets of his heart are revealed, and as a result, kneeling face down, he will worship God and tell others that God is truly among you.
V22 So then, unknown languages are a sign to those who don’t believe, not to those who believe, but prophesying is for those who believe, not for those who don’t believe.
We witnessed this in Acts 2:1-13. Speaking in unknown languages benefits the individual believer. Speaking prophecy benefits the whole congregation.
V23 Therefore, if the whole congregation is gathered in one place and all speak in unknown languages, and some come in who are unlearned or unbelievers, won’t they say you are insane?
If no one understands, then there is no effect on the hearers. This shows the practical effect of the impact of spiritual gifts.
V24 But if all prophesy and some unbeliever or untaught [person] comes in, he is convicted by all and examined by all.
On the other hand, if one speaks in the common language, they will understand, be convicted, and if they humble themselves, ask for salvation from Jesus. It is faith alone through Jesus Christ alone.
V25 So in this way the secrets of his heart are revealed, and as a result, kneeling face down, he will worship God and tell others that God is truly among you.
This might refer to someone having the word of knowledge from God revealing it to the speaker. More likely, it refers to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8).
The Good News brings out the meaning of Galatians 3:24 best. Galatians 3:24 (GNB) And so the Law was in charge of us until Christ came, in order that we might then be put right with God through faith.
AskAndy (Dr. Andy Woods) AI answers the question: What is the purpose of the Law?
“The purpose of the Mosaic Law was not to redeem or justify the nation of Israel, as they had already been redeemed by faith through the Passover and the crossing of the Red Sea. Instead, the Mosaic Law was given to a redeemed people to teach them how to live as God’s special nation. It provided instructions on how to relate to God (commandments 1 through 4), how to relate to one another (commandments 5 through 10), how to relate to the surrounding nations, and how to worship God through the tabernacle and sacrificial system. The law served as a tutor or guardian to lead people to Christ by revealing sin and showing the need for a Savior. It was a gracious provision that helped the redeemed nation order their lives under God after coming out of Egyptian bondage and paganism. The law also included provisions for maintaining fellowship with God despite sin, through the ceremonial sacrifices. In summary, the Mosaic Law’s ultimate purpose was to guide a redeemed people in sanctification—how to live in obedience and holiness—and to lead them to Christ, who fulfilled the law perfectly. It was never intended as a means of salvation or justification, which comes by faith alone. Relevant Bible verses include:
- • Galatians 3:24: “Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith.”
• Romans 3:20: “Because by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for through the Law comes the knowledge of sin.”
• Deuteronomy 28:1-2: “Now it shall come about, if you diligently obey the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I am commanding you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the Lord your God.” - We learn:
A practical application regarding tongues (languages) and prophecy (preaching and teaching).
Why speaking in the common language is important. - Questions:
Which is more important personal or congregational edification?
What is the purpose of the Mosaic Law?