King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:30 Mean?
“If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.”
1 Corinthians 14:30 · KJV
Context
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.
32
And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryIf any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace—Paul addresses overlapping prophecies. If apokalyphthē (ἀποκαλυφθῇ, "it be revealed") to allō kathēmenō (ἄλλῳ καθημένῳ, "another sitting by"), then ho prōtos sigatō (ὁ πρῶτος σιγάτω, "let the first be silent").
The scenario: one prophet is speaking when another receives revelation. Paul says the first should yield to the second. This assumes (1) prophecy can come spontaneously during worship, (2) multiple people may receive revelation, (3) order requires sequential sharing, (4) the Spirit's timing matters—fresh revelation takes priority. The same Spirit who gives revelation gives grace to wait; there's no conflict between Spirit-prompting and orderly process.
The scenario: one prophet is speaking when another receives revelation. Paul says the first should yield to the second. This assumes (1) prophecy can come spontaneously during worship, (2) multiple people may receive revelation, (3) order requires sequential sharing, (4) the Spirit's timing matters—fresh revelation takes priority. The same Spirit who gives revelation gives grace to wait; there's no conflict between Spirit-prompting and orderly process.
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Historical & Cultural Context
This suggests dynamic, Spirit-led worship where multiple congregants prophesied spontaneously. Paul doesn't suppress spontaneity but orders it: speak in turn, yield to others, prioritize fresh revelation.
Reflection Questions
- How does this verse show both spontaneity and order in Spirit-led worship?
- Why should the first speaker yield when another receives revelation?
- What does this teach about the Spirit's character and corporate worship?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 8 wordsἐὰν1 of 8
G1437a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
καθημένῳ5 of 8
“that sitteth by”
G2521and ???? (to sit; akin to the base of g1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside
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 14:30 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 14:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge