2 When a person speaks in another language, he doesn’t speak to people but to God. No one understands him. His spirit is speaking mysteries.
3 But when a person speaks what God has revealed, he speaks to people to help them grow, to encourage them, and to comfort them.
4 When a person speaks in another language, he helps himself grow. But when a person speaks what God has revealed, he helps the church grow.
5 I wish that all of you could speak in other languages, but especially that you could speak what God has revealed. The person who speaks what God has revealed is more important than the person who speaks in other languages. This is true unless he can interpret what he says to help the church grow.
6 Brothers and sisters, it wouldn’t do you any good if I came to you speaking in other languages, unless I explained revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or doctrine to you.
7 Musical instruments like the flute or harp produce sounds. If there is no difference in the notes, how can a person tell what tune is being played?
8 For example, if the trumpet doesn’t sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?