Definition: In the law it is written, With [men of] other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 14:21. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex passage about how God wants to share His message with people, but it also has a bit of a tricky element. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is speaking to this group of people – the Christian community – in their own languages and with their own ways of expressing themselves . He wants them to understand Him, but he's acknowledging that they might not always listen. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “In the law…” : This refers to the ancient Jewish laws and traditions that were practiced before Jesus. It suggests God is using established systems of communication – the rules and customs of the past. “…it is written…” : This means that this message is already part of Scripture, a foundational truth revealed through the Old Testament. “With [men of] other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people…” : This is where it gets a little confusing. “Other tongues” refers to different languages – like the various languages spoken in the ancient world. "Other lips" suggests that God wants to communicate through different ways than we do – maybe through poetry, music, or stories. “…and yet for all that will they not hear me…” : This is the crucial part. It’s saying that even though he's trying to speak to them in different ways, they won't understand him . It implies a challenge – God wants to reach people, but his methods aren't always effective. What does this mean for us today? This verse is often interpreted as a reminder of the importance of communication and understanding . It encourages us to: Be mindful of different ways of expressing ourselves: Just like God uses various languages, we should be aware that people might understand things differently. Don’t force our message: God wants to communicate with us, but sometimes, it's okay for others not to "hear" him in the same way he does. It’s important to respect their perspectives. Important Note: This verse is a bit of a mystery and has been debated throughout Church history. It’s a reminder that God’s ways are often beyond our complete comprehension. In short, this verse suggests that God wants to share His truth with everyone, but he's being patient and allowing people to communicate in their own way. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss its historical context? Explore how this verse relates to other biblical passages?