“If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.”
My Notes
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:37 Mean?
"If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord." Paul makes an audacious claim: his written instructions carry the authority of the Lord's commands. If you're genuinely prophetic or spiritual, you'll recognize that. If you don't recognize it, your claim to spirituality is suspect.
The test Paul proposes is circular but effective: the truly spiritual person acknowledges Paul's authority. The person who rejects Paul's authority reveals their own spiritual deficiency. The acknowledgment of apostolic teaching is itself evidence of spiritual maturity.
The phrase "the commandments of the Lord" (entole kyriou) places Paul's written words on the level of divine command. He's not offering suggestions or opinions (though he distinguishes those elsewhere — 7:25). These are the Lord's commandments, delivered through Paul's pen. The authority is Christ's. The instrument is Paul's writing.
Reflection Questions
- 1.Do you treat Scripture as the Lord's commands or as suggestions?
- 2.How does recognizing apostolic authority serve as a test of genuine spirituality?
- 3.What's the difference between submitting to Scripture's authority and agreeing with every interpretation of it?
- 4.How do you evaluate spiritual claims that contradict apostolic teaching?
Devotional
If you're really spiritual, you'll recognize that what I'm writing is the Lord's command. Paul draws a line: the truly prophetic, the genuinely spiritual, will acknowledge his apostolic authority. Those who don't reveal more about their own spiritual condition than about Paul's authority.
The claim is bold and potentially arrogant — unless it's true. If Paul's writings ARE the Lord's commands, then the test is valid: recognition of divine authority is a mark of genuine spirituality. If they're not, Paul is merely asserting institutional power. The early church — by canonizing Paul's letters — chose the first option.
The practical application is a test for spiritual claims: does the person acknowledge Scripture's authority? The prophet who contradicts apostolic teaching isn't a prophet. The spiritual person who rejects the written word isn't as spiritual as they think. Genuine spiritual maturity recognizes and submits to the authority of Scripture — not because Scripture is impersonal law but because it carries the Lord's commands.
This doesn't mean every interpretation of Scripture is equally valid. It means the text itself carries divine authority. How you understand it may vary. That you submit to its authority should not.
How do you relate to Scripture — as the Lord's commands or as suggestions you're free to revise?
Commentary
Trusted original commentary from respected historical Bible scholars and theologians.
Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy,.... The apostle now draws to a conclusion, and reassumes the exhortation he gave…
If any man think himself to be a prophet - See the note at 1Co 14:1. If any man claim to be divinely endowed. Macknight…
If any man think himself to be a prophet, etc. - He who is really a spiritual man, under the influence of the Spirit of…
In these verses the apostle closes his argument, 1. With a just rebuke of the Corinthians for their extravagant pride…
If any man think himself to be a prophet Since there were many appointed teachers (see ch. 1Co 12:28-29) who were not…
Cross References
Related passages throughout Scripture