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NASB | 1 Corinthians 14:22 So then tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is for a sign, not to unbelievers but to those who believe. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 14:22 Therefore, [unknown] tongues are [meant] for a [supernatural] sign, not to believers but to unbelievers [who might be receptive]; while prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people] is not for unbelievers but for believers. |
Subject: Tongues, madness or sign for unbeliever |
Bible Note: Thanks for the in-depth answer. It is fascinating, and I appreciate how the OT quote is integrated into it ( ... although it is a strange passage for Paul to quote. It's relation to tongues is certainly metaphorical...). So, if I understand it right, Paul is saying that tongues are for unbelievers. If the tongues are improperly used, however, they will be discrediting to the church. If they are properly used, they will somehow reach unbelievers. I have two questions.... first, why would an unbeliever be impressed by unintelligable words? Second, if Paul's criticism is simply that they are using tongues badly, why doesn't he contrast "good tongues" to "confusing tongues" instead of contrasting tongues to prophecy? I hope I have made my questions clear.... it seems a bit muddled. JRM |