1 Corinthians 14:23
If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
1 Corinthians 14:23
Paul envisions a scenario where the whole church gathers and everyone speaks in tongues. If visitors or the unlearned enter, they might conclude the gathering is madness. The point is to prevent disorder that could lead outsiders to reject the gospel. This verse underscores that order and intelligibility protect the church’s witness. It is not a ban on tongues, but a caution to avoid chaos that alienates seekers. The surrounding discussion on interpretation and prophecy supports this; gifts must contribute to corporate edification and evangelism, not confusion.
Theological themes include the church’s public witness, the nature of spiritual gifts for building up the body, and the responsibility of the gathered community to honor outsiders. The verse reinforces the gospel’s accessibility; God’s gift-usage should avoid creating a barrier to faith while still honoring the Spirit’s work.
Practical takeaway: ensure gatherings are intelligible, especially for guests. If a moment of tongues occurs, provide interpretation; otherwise, prioritize clear teaching or a prophesied message that speaks to the congregation and outsiders. Churches can design services with a rhythm: a segment of clear proclamation followed by a moment of Spirit-led worship that is accessible to all. Example: a service that begins with a clear, engaging sermon or testimony, followed by a brief, interpreted tongue and prophecy segment that speaks to believers and invites unbelievers to respond.
Cross-References: Acts 2:12-14, Acts 2:41, 1 Corinthians 14:6-7, 1 Corinthians 14:28, Ephesians 4:11-13