Scripture · New Testament
1 Corinthians 14:11
1 Corinthians 14:11 is verse 11 of 1 Corinthians chapter 14, shown here in the Berean Standard Bible.
Berean Standard Bible
If, then, I do not know the meaning of someone’s language, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me.
Literally a barbarian; twice in this verse
King James Version
Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
World English Bible
If then I don’t know the meaning of the language, I would be to him who speaks a foreigner, and he who speaks would be a foreigner to me.
Read in context
1 Corinthians 14:9–13 · Berean Standard Bible
9 So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.
10 Assuredly, there are many different languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.
11 If, then, I do not know the meaning of someone’s language, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me.
12 It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church.
13 Therefore, the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret.
Read all of 1 Corinthians 14Greek words
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Study 1 Corinthians 14:11
Cross-references
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge lists these related verses. Scripture text comes from the Berean Standard Bible.
1 Corinthians 14:21It is written in the Law: “By strange tongues and foreign lips I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to Me, says the Lord.”
Acts 28:2The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold.
Acts 28:4When the islanders saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “Surely this man is a murderer. Although he was saved from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.”
Romans 1:14I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish.
Colossians 3:11Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all.