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Reading the following verse :

1 Corinthians 14:19 (ASV):

howbeit in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that I might >instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

Is the number five really arbitrary, or is it refering to a particular sentence ?

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1 Answer 1

The "five words" is not a reference to something in particular and is actually meant to be arbitrary. The statement is meant to show how much more important it is to speak something understandable than to speak in tongues.

If we consider the verse in its context it will be easier to understand. In particular consider 1 Corinthians 14:15-19 (ESV):


Paul is saying that he would rather speak a little using his mind than speak a lot in tongues because speaking in tongues does not provide a benefit to others nearby. They do not know what you are saying, and therefore they cannot agree or be "built up" as Paul says in verse 17. Because Paul was an apostle sent specifically to the gentiles, he has his mind focused on how he can better disciple others around him. Speaking words that others can understand is far more effective in discipling than speaking in tongues.

Discipleship is after all the primary mission of the church according to Jesus as recorded in Matthew 28:16-20:


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