New Testament
1 Corinthians 14:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So tongues are a sign not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers, but for believers.
Compare translations
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.
What 1 Corinthians 14:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul explains the purpose of speaking in tongues and prophecy. Tongues serve as a sign for those who do not believe, showing them something extraordinary. It’s like a wake-up call, drawing their attention to the divine. On the other hand, prophecy is meant for believers. It provides guidance, encouragement, and insight into God’s will. This distinction highlights the different roles these gifts play in the community of faith. While tongues may intrigue outsiders, prophecy nurtures and strengthens the faith of those who already believe. Understanding this helps us appreciate the diverse ways God communicates with us. It reminds us that both gifts have their place in spiritual life, serving different audiences and purposes. Ultimately, the goal is to build up the community and draw people closer to God, whether they are believers or not. This balance is essential for a healthy spiritual environment, where everyone can grow and learn together, regardless of their starting point.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 14:22 to your life
Consider how you can use your spiritual gifts to serve others. If you have the gift of prophecy, share insights that encourage and uplift fellow believers. If you speak in tongues, remember its purpose is to reach those who are still searching for faith. Balance is key in your spiritual journey and community involvement. “Be intentional about how you use your gifts.” “Seek to build others up.” “Engage with both believers and seekers.”
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Corinthians 14:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Corinthians 14:22
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 14:22 mean?
1 Corinthians 14:22 explains that speaking in tongues is a sign for unbelievers, meant to capture their attention, while prophecy is intended for believers, providing them with guidance and encouragement.
What is the meaning of tongues in 1 Corinthians 14:22?
In this verse, tongues refer to a spiritual gift that serves as a miraculous sign to those who do not believe, highlighting God's presence and power to draw them closer to faith.
What is the purpose of prophecy in 1 Corinthians 14:22?
Prophecy, as described in this verse, is meant for believers; it offers them insight, encouragement, and helps strengthen their faith in God.
How do tongues and prophecy differ in 1 Corinthians 14:22?
Tongues are a sign for unbelievers, intended to intrigue and awaken their interest in God, while prophecy serves to nurture and build up the faith of believers.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.