1 Corinthians 14:20 — Meaning and Application

King James Version

“Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. {men: Gr. perfect, or, of a ripe age}”

1 Corinthians 14:20

bookmark_border Save Verse

menu_book Verse in Context

Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:

I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:

Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that {by my voice} I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an {unknown} tongue.

Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. {men: Gr. perfect, or, of a ripe age}

In the law it is written, With {men of} other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.

Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying {serveth} not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.

Get Personalized Biblical Guidance

Save your favorite verses, get AI-powered insights tailored to your life, and discover related scripture for your spiritual journey.

person_add Create Free Account library_books Explore Topics

From This Chapter

1 Corinthians 14:1

"Follow after charity, and desire spiritual {gifts}, but rather that ye may prophesy."

1 Corinthians 14:2

"For he that speaketh in an {unknown} tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth {him}; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. {understandeth: Gr. heareth}"

1 Corinthians 14:3

"But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men {to} edification, and exhortation, and comfort."

1 Corinthians 14:4

"He that speaketh in an {unknown} tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church."

1 Corinthians 14:5

"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."

1 Corinthians 14:6

"Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?"

Important Disclaimer: This biblical guidance is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you're experiencing crisis symptoms, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or seek immediate professional help.

Bible Guided provides faith-based guidance and should complement, not replace, professional therapeutic support.

shareShare Your Journey

menu_book Verse in Context

Get Personalized Biblical Guidance

From This Chapter