1 Corinthians 14:24 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:

All - one by one (1 Corinthians 14:31).

Prophesy - speak by the Spirit intelligibly; not in unintelligible tongues.

One - singular, implying that conviction by all would be produced on anyone who might happen, to enter. In 1 Corinthians 14:23 the plural, "unlearned" or "unbelievers," implying that however many there be, not one will profit by the tongues; yea, their being many would confirm them in rejecting the sign, as many unbelievers together strengthen one another in unbelief: individuals are more easily won.

He - the "one that believeth not."

Convinced - convicted in conscience (John 16:8-9). Judged - his secret character is "discerned," namely, the "one unlearned" (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:15), who, however unskilled in other tongues, can understand the language that speaks to his heart.

1 Corinthians 14:24

24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: