King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:28 Mean?
“But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.”
1 Corinthians 14:28 · KJV
Context
26
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
27
If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. two: by two or three sentences separately
28
But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
29
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
30
If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryBut if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church—Paul's stark command: ean de mē ē diermēneutēs, sigatō en ekklēsia (ἐὰν δὲ μὴ ᾖ διερμηνευτής, σιγάτω ἐν ἐκκλησίᾳ, "but if there is no interpreter, let him be silent in church"). The imperative sigatō (σιγάτω, "let him be silent") is unequivocal. And let him speak to himself, and to God—private tongues-prayer remains legitimate: eatō de heautō lalein kai tō theō (ἑατῷ δὲ ἑαυτῷ λαλεῖν καὶ τῷ θεῷ, "let him speak to himself and to God").
Paul distinguishes public and private speech: without interpretation, tongues belong in private devotion, not corporate worship. This isn't suppressing the Spirit; it's channeling spiritual expression toward edification. The allowance for private prayer shows Paul values tongues—in their proper context.
Paul distinguishes public and private speech: without interpretation, tongues belong in private devotion, not corporate worship. This isn't suppressing the Spirit; it's channeling spiritual expression toward edification. The allowance for private prayer shows Paul values tongues—in their proper context.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Some Corinthians apparently felt compelled to speak in tongues publicly regardless of interpretation. Paul insists: no interpreter, no public tongues. Keep it between you and God.
Reflection Questions
- Why does Paul command silence rather than simply encouraging interpretation?
- What's the difference between 'speaking to himself and to God' versus public speech?
- How does this verse honor both spiritual expression and corporate edification?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 14 wordsἐὰν1 of 14
G1437a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
μὴ3 of 14
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ᾖ4 of 14
“there be”
G5600(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
ἐκκλησίᾳ8 of 14
“the church”
G1577a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
καὶ12 of 14
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
θεῷ14 of 14
“to God”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Corinthians 14:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.