Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
The counsel belongs to the apostle's directions for preserving order in the life and worship of the church. It urges believers to earnestly desire and pursue the gift of prophecy as something to be coveted. At the same time it prohibits forbidding the speaking with tongues. In this way it makes clear that the exercise of spiritual gifts is not contrary to discipline and harmonious action, but is to operate within them.
The counsel belongs to the apostle's directions for preserving order in the life and worship of the church. It urges believers to earnestly desire and pursue the gift of prophecy as something to be coveted. At the same time it prohibits forbidding the speaking with tongues. In this way it makes clear that the exercise of spiritual gifts is not contrary to discipline and harmonious action, but is to operate within them.