4 The ones who speak in different languages are helping only themselves, but those who prophesy are helping the whole church.
5 I wish all of you had the gift of speaking in different kinds of languages, but more, I wish you would prophesy. Those who prophesy are greater than those who can only speak in different languages—unless someone is there who can explain what is said so that the whole church can be helped.
6 Brothers and sisters, will it help you if I come to you speaking in different languages? No! It will help you only if I bring you a new truth or some new knowledge, or prophecy, or teaching.
7 It is the same as with lifeless things that make sounds—like a flute or a harp. If they do not make clear musical notes, you will not know what is being played.
8 And in a war, if the trumpet does not give a clear sound, who will prepare for battle?
9 It is the same with you. Unless you speak clearly with your tongue, no one can understand what you are saying. You will be talking into the air!
10 It may be true that there are all kinds of sounds in the world, and none is without meaning.