King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 14:29 Mean?

1 Corinthians 14:29 in the King James Version says “Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

1 Corinthians 14:29 · KJV


Context

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.

31

For ye may all prophesy one by one , that all may learn, and all may be comforted.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge—Paul regulates prophecy similarly to tongues: prophētai de dyo ē treis laleitōsan (προφῆται δὲ δύο ἢ τρεῖς λαλείτωσαν, "let prophets, two or three, speak"), and hoi alloi diakrinētōsan (οἱ ἄλλοι διακρινέτωσαν, "let the others discern/judge").

Diakrinō (διακρίνω) means to discern, distinguish, evaluate—congregational testing of prophecy (1 Thess 5:19-21, "prove all things"). Even Spirit-prompted speech requires evaluation because human error can intrude. The limitation to 2-3 prophets prevents exhausting the congregation; the call to "judge" prevents uncritical acceptance. This is ordered freedom: prophecy is welcomed but tested.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Early Christian prophecy was spontaneous, Spirit-prompted speech (Acts 13:1-2, 21:10-11). Paul doesn't quench this but insists on congregational discernment to guard against error.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does Paul limit prophecy to 2-3 speakers like tongues?
  2. What does it mean for 'the other' to 'judge' prophecy?
  3. How can we balance openness to the Spirit with discernment in corporate worship?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
προφῆται1 of 10

the prophets

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

δὲ2 of 10
G1161

but, and, etc

δύο3 of 10

two

G1417

"two"

4 of 10

or

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

τρεῖς5 of 10

three

G5140

"three"

λαλείτωσαν6 of 10

Let

G2980

to talk, i.e., utter words

καὶ7 of 10

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἱ8 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄλλοι9 of 10

the other

G243

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

διακρινέτωσαν·10 of 10

judge

G1252

to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,


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 14:29 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 14:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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