Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:31

What does 1 Corinthians 14:31 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 14:31 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 14:31 means

Paul envisions a setting where many can contribute prophetically, but in sequence—one by one—so that all may learn and be strengthened. The goal is comprehensive edification, not the dominance of a few. This requires patience, humility, and attention to the needs of the whole. A well-ordered meeting makes room for gifts without sacrificing clarity. By stating that all can prophesy in turn, Paul honors the Spirit’s distribution while ensuring the process remains digestible for hearers. Learning and encouragement are the standards by which to evaluate how and when to speak, keeping the focus on what benefits the congregation most.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For ye all can prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For ye all can prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For you may all be prophets in turn so that all may get knowledge and comfort;

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for ye are able, one by one, all to prophesy, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For you may all prophesy, one by one, that all may learn and all may be exhorted.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

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

Context

This verse summarizes the purpose of the previous practical steps regarding prophetic speech: taking turns allows broad participation that leads to learning and encouragement. The next verse will ground this order in the nature of prophetic inspiration—self-control is possible and expected. Together these statements reinforce that the Spirit’s work does not produce disorder but supports the peaceful, edifying conduct of worship gatherings.

v.30But if a revelation be made to another sitting by, let the first keep silence.

v.31This passage

v.32and the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets;

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Ephesians 6:22

    whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts.

  • Ephesians 4:11

    And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

  • 2 Corinthians 1:4

    who comforteth us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort them that are in any affliction, through the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:18

    Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

  • Proverbs 9:9

    Giveinstructionto a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: Teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:19

    howbeit in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

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