1 Corinthians 14:17 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Paul, when you say thank you to God in a way others can't understand, you're doing a good job, but it doesn't help other people learn or feel better. It's important to make sure everyone can understand and feel included when we talk to God together.

Contradiction with Acts 2:4

Shows speaking in tongues positively as a powerful, inclusive gift given during Pentecost, possibly enhancing communal faith, contrasting with the personal edification suggested in Corinthians.

Acts 2:4: And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Contradiction with Mark 16:17

Lists speaking in tongues as a sign that follows believers, implying it is a beneficial gift for all, contrasting the limited edification suggested in 1 Corinthians 14:17.

Mark 16:17: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:5

Paul states his desire for all to speak in tongues, highlighting a positive view, which might contrast with the notion that it doesn't benefit others without interpretation.

1 Corinthians 14:5: I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater [is] he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:10

Highlights diverse spiritual gifts, including tongues, as valuable to all believers, potentially contradicting the notion that speaking in tongues doesn't edify the church without understanding.

1 Corinthians 12:10: To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another [divers] kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 13:1

Suggests tongues without love are meaningless, undercutting the idea of any inherent value or gratitude in unintelligible speech seen in 14:17.

1 Corinthians 13:1: Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:2

Implies speaking in tongues addresses God directly, adding a divine importance not visibly shared with others, which may seem contrary to edifying others directly.