Contradiction with Mark 16:17
This verse states that speaking in tongues is a sign for those who believe, which contradicts 1 Corinthians 14:22 that says tongues are a sign for those who do not believe.
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 Acts 2:4-6
These verses describe how speaking in tongues was understood by everyone, suggesting it served as a sign for believers too, whereas 1 Corinthians 14:22 says it is for unbelievers.
Acts 2:4-6: And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:18-19
Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of prophecy over tongues in church, whereas 1 Corinthians 14:22 highlights the role of tongues.
1 Corinthians 14:18-19: I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:28-30
Lists tongues among various gifts to be interpreted within the church setting, contrasting with 1 Corinthians 14:22 which singles out tongues as a sign to unbelievers.
1 Corinthians 12:28-30: And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. [diversities: or, kinds]
Contradiction with Acts 10:44-47
Describes speaking in tongues as evidence of the Holy Spirit for believers, conflicting with 1 Corinthians 14:22's focus on unbelievers.
Acts 10:44-47: While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 13:1
Suggests that speaking in tongues without love is meaningless, implying its limited value compared to love, differing from the function described in 1 Corinthians 14:22.
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 14:39
Encourages believers not to forbid speaking in tongues, contrary to the negative association with unbelievers implied in 1 Corinthians 14:22.
1 Corinthians 14:39: Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
Paradox #1
1 Corinthians 14:22 might be seen as contradictory or inconsistent when compared to verses that discuss the purpose of spiritual gifts, particularly the use of tongues and prophecy. Some people might find it confusing because it seems to suggest that speaking in tongues is a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy is for believers. This can appear to conflict with other passages that emphasize edification of the church as the primary purpose of spiritual gifts, leading to debates about the appropriate use and audience for these gifts within the church setting.
Paradox #2
1 Corinthians 14:22 suggests that speaking in tongues is a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy is for believers. A potential contradiction arises when compared to earlier verses in the same chapter where Paul seems to prioritize prophecy over speaking in tongues for the edification of the church, mainly focusing on building up believers. This can seem inconsistent because one part indicates that tongues are meant to impact unbelievers, but the practical advice leans heavily towards prophecy, which might confuse the intended audience for each gift.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse could be that it suggests a different purpose for speaking in tongues compared to other parts of the Bible. In some verses, speaking in tongues is seen as a sign for believers or a gift meant to edify the church, while this verse suggests it is a sign for non-believers. This might seem confusing or conflicting in terms of whom the gift is supposed to benefit.