Orderly Worship

26 What then [shall we say], brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm [or] a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, [or] an interpretation. All [of these] must be done to build up [ the church ].

27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or [at] most three, [should speak] in turn, and someone must interpret. 28 But if there is no interpreter, he should remain silent in [the] church and speak [only] to himself and God.

29 Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully [what is said]. 30 And if a revelation comes to someone who is seated, the first [speaker] should stop. 31 For you can all prophesy in [turn] so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. 32 [The] spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. 33 For [God] is not a God of disorder, but of peace—as in all the churches of the saints.[fn]

34 Women are to be silent in the churches. They are not permitted to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35 If they wish to inquire about something, they are to ask [their] own husbands at home; for it is dishonorable for a woman to speak in [the] church.[fn]

36 {Did} the word of God originate with you? Or [are] you the only [ones] it has reached? 37 If anyone considers [himself] a prophet or spiritual person, let him acknowledge that what I am writing you is [the] Lord’s command. 38 But if anyone ignores this, he himself will be ignored.[fn]

39 So, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and {do} not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But everything must be done in a proper and orderly [manner].