1 Corinthians 14:4-8
4 One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself ; but one who prophesies edifies the church . 5 Now I wish that you all spoke in tongues , but even more that you would prophesy ; and greater is one who prophesies than one who speaks in tongues , unless e he interprets , so that the church may receive edifying .
6 But now , brethren , if I come to you speaking in tongues , what will I profit you unless e I speak to you either by way of revelation or of knowledge or of prophecy or of teaching ? 7 Yet even lifeless things , either flute or harp , in producing a sound , if they do not produce a distinction in the tones , how will it be known what is played on the flute or on the harp ? 8 For if the bugle produces an indistinct sound , who will prepare himself for battle ?
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:4-8
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:1-5
(Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-5)
Prophesying, that is, explaining Scripture, is compared with speaking with tongues. This drew attention, more than the plain interpretation of Scripture; it gratified pride more, but promoted the purposes of Christian charity less; it would not equally do good to the souls of men. What cannot be understood, never can edify. No advantage can be reaped from the most excellent discourses, if delivered in language such as the hearers cannot speak or understand. Every ability or possession is valuable in proportion to its usefulness. Even fervent, spiritual affection must be governed by the exercise of the understanding, else men will disgrace the truths they profess to promote.
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:6-14
(Read 1 Corinthians 14:6-14)
Even an apostle could not edify, unless he spoke so as to be understood by his hearers. To speak words that have no meaning to those who hear them, is but speaking into the air. That cannot answer the end of speaking, which has no meaning; in this case, speaker and hearers are barbarians to each other. All religious services should be so performed in Christian assemblies, that all may join in, and profit by them. Language plain and easy to be understood, is the most proper for public worship, and other religious exercises. Every true follower of Christ will rather desire to do good to others, than to get a name for learning or fine speaking.