What is the definition of prophesying in 1 Corinthians 14:3?
In 1 Corinthians 14:3, prophesying is speaking forth the word of God as a gifted individual unto men for edification, exhortation, and comfort. It lifts up, supports, and enlarges the congregation, enhancing all who hear. Unlike tongues, which edifies the speaker alone, prophesying edifies the whole congregation.
Les explains that verse 3 is the flip side of the coin from speaking mysteries. The one who prophesies, or speaks forth the word as a gifted individual, speaks unto men to edification—lifting them up, supporting them, enlarging them. These men with the gift of speaking the word of God enhanced the congregation and helped all who heard them. They exhort and comfort. In contrast, verse 4 says the one speaking in an unknown tongue edifies himself, while the one prophesying edifies the whole congregation. Les points out that a tongues experience, according to the book, edifies only the speaker—an ego trip—whereas prophesying builds up the whole congregation.
But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
More Questions
Who does the person who prophesies speak to, and to what end?
The one who prophesies—speaks forth the word as a gifted individual—speaks unto men for edification.
What does 1 Corinthians 14:3 say speaking forth the word of God does for people?
In 1 Corinthians 14:3 Paul reemphasized that the one who speaks forth the Word of God speaks to men for edification, lifting up, support, exhortation, encouragement, and comfort.