<p><b>Summary</b>:</p><p>Paul says that if he comes speaking in tongues, it is of no benefit unless he brings revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or teaching. Sounds must be distinct—like instruments or a trumpet giving a clear call—or they won’t be understood. Speaking unintelligible words makes communication empty. There are many languages in the world, each with meaning; without understanding, speaker and listener become strangers.</p><p> </p><p>Since they are zealous for spiritual gifts, they should seek gifts that build up the church. Those who speak in tongues should pray to interpret. If he prays in a tongue, his spirit prays but his mind is unfruitful; so he chooses to pray and sing with both spirit and mind. Giving thanks in a tongue may be good, but others cannot be edified. Paul thanks God he speaks in tongues more than all of them, yet in the church he would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.</p><p> </p><p><b>Teaching</b>:</p><p>No matter how much someone speaks in tongues, it cannot benefit others, nor can it bear fruit in the heart. The fruit of the heart comes through understanding.</p><p> </p><p>Prophecy in the church is speech that teaches. The work of the church is to teach the Word, learn the Word, and live according to the Word.</p><p> </p><p>The growth and revival of the early church happened because the Word spread powerfully. Therefore, the work of the church must be built up by the Word. Prophecy follows the normal rules of language that we all understand: the one who speaks knows what he is saying, and the one who hears understands it as well. Thus, every sound within the church must be a sound that everyone can understand.</p><p> </p><p><i>Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Nov 14, 2025</i></p><p><i>1 Corinthian 14:6-29</i></p>
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