Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 14:31
For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian church regarding the regulation of spiritual gifts during corporate assembly. He issues this instruction immediately after establishing that a second speaker must yield when a revelation comes to a seated person.
The words — δύνασθε (dunasthe) translates literally as "you are able," indicating capacity rather than a binding command. καθ᾽ ἕνα (kath' hena) means "one by one," mandating a sequential rather than simultaneous delivery of prophetic speech.
The thread — The text's purpose of instruction and encouragement directly parallels 1 Corinthians 14:3, which defines prophecy as speaking for edification, encouragement, and comfort. It also aligns with the apostolic directive in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 to encourage and build one another up.
Why it lands — The verse commands believers to deliver prophetic speech in succession so that every listener receives instruction and encouragement. It requires readers to prioritize orderly, accessible communication over unregulated personal expression.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
Cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 14:3 But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:14 And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.
- Proverbs 1:5 let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel
- Proverbs 9:9 Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.
- Romans 1:12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
- 1 Corinthians 14:19 But in the church, I would rather speak five coherent words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.
- 1 Corinthians 14:35 If they wish to inquire about something, they are to ask their own husbands at home; for it is dishonorable for a woman to speak in the church.
- 2 Corinthians 1:4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
- 2 Corinthians 7:6 But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the arrival of Titus,