Definition: Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh [shall be] a barbarian unto me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very important verse from 1 Corinthians 14:11. It's a really wise and thoughtful warning about how we should handle spiritual guidance. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that we shouldn’t just blindly accept everything someone says, even if they seem authoritative or knowledgeable. It's about respecting the authority of God and those who are leading us spiritually. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice…” - This means that if someone is speaking in a way that’s confusing, unclear, or doesn’t make sense to you , you don't have enough information to understand what they are saying. You're relying on something outside yourself. “…I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh [shall be] a barbarian unto me.” – This is the crucial part. It means if you don’t understand the message being delivered, you should avoid being influenced by it. “A barbarian” here refers to someone who speaks in an unclear, confusing, or even offensive way. “Shall be” emphasizes that this is a rule – a guideline for how we should behave. What does this mean practically? It’s essentially about critical thinking and discernment. It's a reminder to: Question things: Don't accept everything at face value. Seek clarity: Ask questions, look for context, and understand the speaker’s intent before you follow their guidance. Trust your own judgment: Ultimately, you are the one who needs to decide what is right and true for you . Why was this verse written? The author of 1 Corinthians 14 was worried about spiritual chaos within a church. He wanted to ensure that people weren’t being misled by false teachers or those who didn't understand the basics of faith. This verse is a way to protect the community and promote sound, genuine understanding. In short: Don’t just listen; understand . Be discerning and don't let someone else's words dictate your beliefs without careful consideration. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in another way? Give an example of a situation where this verse might be relevant?