1 Corinthians 14:1-25

It seems that those at the church in Corinth had a few issues with respect to prophecy and speaking in tongues. Paul felt the need to address these issues and he speaks about the ways in which they are to go about using these gifts. He has already established the necessity for love and with that in mind he goes on to tell them about the way in which they are to prophecy and speak in tongues. First of all, they should desire to prophecy. Prophecy is for building up the church, but one who speaks in tongues speaks to God and others do not understand him. He doesn't mean that he doesn't want them to speak on tongues, but he's simply showing his preference and why it is such.

It is important that everyone understand one another, but if a person speaks in a different language, others cannot understand him. With the gift of tongues it is important to have one who can interpret. Also, those speaking in tongues may not necessarily be speaking with their mind. Paul would suggest them to speak with their minds rather than speak in tongues.

Another example that Paul gives is that prophecy is a sign for believers while tongues is a sign for unbelievers. If an unbeliever sees the church speaking in tongues, he would thing that they are all crazy. However, if an unbeliever hears the church prophesying, he may be convicted of his sins and repent.