What is the definition of prophesying in 1 Corinthians 14?
In 1 Corinthians 14, prophesying is defined as speaking forth the word of God with the power of God, without benefit of a New Testament scripture. It is greater than speaking with languages unless the speaker can interpret so the church may receive anything.
Les explains that in 1 Corinthians 14, prophesying is defined as speaking forth the word of God with the power of God, without benefit of a New Testament scripture. He notes that prophesying is greater than speaking with languages, unless the speaker can interpret so the church may receive anything. Les illustrates with the Corinthian congregation, where some understood only Hebrew or Aramaic, and with modern missionaries who must learn a language before they can preach. Paul desired that all could teach and preach in a language the hearers understood, because people needed to hear the Word from men's lips, not read it at home.
I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
More Questions
Why is prophecy greater than speaking in tongues in 1 Corinthians 14:5?
The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks with languages, unless the tongues-speaker can interpret so that the church may receive edification.