Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Corinthians 14:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Corinthians 14:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Corinthians 14:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, when a person speaks in a language that others don't understand, they help themselves feel good. But when someone shares a message from God that everyone can understand, it helps the whole church feel good and learn.

1 Corinthians 14:4: He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 13:1

This verse emphasizes that speaking in tongues without love is meaningless, contrary to the edification mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:4.

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 Romans 12:6-8

This verse highlights the importance of using different spiritual gifts like prophecy for the benefit of others, which contrasts with self-edification.

Romans 12:6-8: Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

Contradiction with Matthew 6:5

This verse cautions against practicing acts that are seen as beneficial only to oneself, such as praying to gain attention, rather than edifying the church like 1 Corinthians 14:4 suggests for tongue-speaking.

Matthew 6:5: And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites [are]: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:19

Prefers prophecy in the church rather than speaking in tongues so that the church may be edified, differing from the personal edification mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:4.

1 Corinthians 14:19: Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that [by my voice] I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an [unknown] tongue.

Contradiction with 1 Peter 4:10

Speaks about using one's gifts to serve others, not oneself, which contrasts with the personal edification emphasized in 1 Corinthians 14:4.

1 Peter 4:10: As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Paradox #1

The potential conflict could arise when considering the emphasis on building up oneself versus the community. Some may argue that focusing on individual edification may seem inconsistent with the broader Christian teaching of prioritizing the good of the whole church community over personal benefit. This could be seen as conflicting with the call to selflessly serve others.

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