There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
There are in the world many kinds of voices or languages, and not one of them is without meaning. Every voice and sound carries significance, so that none is empty or void of sense.
When piping or harping gives sounds without distinction, what is piped or harped cannot be known or recognized. If the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, no one can prepare for battle. In the same way speech that is not easy to be understood is spoken into the air and profits no hearer.
If the meaning of the voice is not known, speaker and hearer remain unable to understand one another. They are barbarians to each other, strangers by language though present together.
Speech must therefore be distinct, clear, and easy to be understood in order to benefit those who hear. Those who are zealous of spiritual gifts must utter words easy to be understood and seek to excel to the edifying and building up of the church. What does not edify the listeners fails of its purpose, for gifts are given to strengthen the body of believers.
This principle given about tongues applies to testimony, prayer, and speaking in church and in social meetings. All such speaking should be clear and distinct rather than confused or inaudible. Believers should cultivate their voices so that others can understand and be strengthened.
There are in the world many kinds of voices or languages, and not one of them is without meaning. Every voice and sound carries significance, so that none is empty or void of sense.
When piping or harping gives sounds without distinction, what is piped or harped cannot be known or recognized. If the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, no one can prepare for battle. In the same way speech that is not easy to be understood is spoken into the air and profits no hearer.
If the meaning of the voice is not known, speaker and hearer remain unable to understand one another. They are barbarians to each other, strangers by language though present together.
Speech must therefore be distinct, clear, and easy to be understood in order to benefit those who hear. Those who are zealous of spiritual gifts must utter words easy to be understood and seek to excel to the edifying and building up of the church. What does not edify the listeners fails of its purpose, for gifts are given to strengthen the body of believers.
This principle given about tongues applies to testimony, prayer, and speaking in church and in social meetings. All such speaking should be clear and distinct rather than confused or inaudible. Believers should cultivate their voices so that others can understand and be strengthened.