13 For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say.
13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
13 Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray for the power to interpret.
13 So, when you pray in your private prayer language, don't hoard the experience for yourself. Pray for the insight and ability to bring others into that intimacy.
13 Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret.
13 So anyone who speaks in tongues should pray also for the ability to interpret what has been said.
14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful.
14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful.
14 If I pray in tongues, my spirit prays but my mind lies fallow, and all that intelligence is wasted.
14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
14 For if I pray in tongues, my spirit is praying, but I don't understand what I am saying.
(Read 1 Corinthians 14:6-14)
Even an apostle could not edify, unless he spoke so as to be understood by his hearers. To speak words that have no meaning to those who hear them, is but speaking into the air. That cannot answer the end of speaking, which has no meaning; in this case, speaker and hearers are barbarians to each other. All religious services should be so performed in Christian assemblies, that all may join in, and profit by them. Language plain and easy to be understood, is the most proper for public worship, and other religious exercises. Every true follower of Christ will rather desire to do good to others, than to get a name for learning or fine speaking.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:13
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:6-14
(Read 1 Corinthians 14:6-14)
Even an apostle could not edify, unless he spoke so as to be understood by his hearers. To speak words that have no meaning to those who hear them, is but speaking into the air. That cannot answer the end of speaking, which has no meaning; in this case, speaker and hearers are barbarians to each other. All religious services should be so performed in Christian assemblies, that all may join in, and profit by them. Language plain and easy to be understood, is the most proper for public worship, and other religious exercises. Every true follower of Christ will rather desire to do good to others, than to get a name for learning or fine speaking.