Definition: If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in [those that are] unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 14:23. Itās a really important one about how we should handle gatherings of believers. Hereās the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is warning against gatherings where people are speaking in different languages ā and those who don't understand it. It suggests that if everyone starts talking like this, it could be confusing and disruptive for those who aren't familiar with the language. Letās unpack it piece by piece: āIf therefore the whole church be come together into one placeā¦ā ā This means a large group of Christians is gathering together in one location. Think of a big church service, a meeting, or even just a group of people praying together. āā¦and all speak with tonguesā¦ā ā This refers to people speaking in different languages at the same time . It's not just a little bit of conversation; theyāre actually speaking in multiple languages. āAnd there come in [those that are] unlearned, or unbelieversā¦ā ā This is where it gets important. The verse specifically mentions āunlearnedā or āunbelievers.ā It's saying that people who arenāt fully devoted to God or the Christian faith are being included. āWill they not say that ye are mad?ā ā This is the question the verse poses. Itās asking if people would then think that the gathering is strange, confusing, or even dangerous because of this language confusion. What's the point of the warning? The Bible is saying that if we have a situation like this ā a large group speaking in different languages and including those who arenāt fully on board with our faith ā it could be disruptive to the spiritual experience for others. It's about maintaining harmony and order within the church community. In short, the verse is urging us to be careful about gatherings where language barriers are significant and that we donāt let things get so confusing that they damage the spiritual atmosphere. --- Important Note: This verse is from an older text (the New Testament) and was written with a specific context in mind. Itās a reminder of the importance of unity and careful consideration within the church. Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Corinthians 14? Discuss the historical context of this verse?