THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PAUL THE APOSTLE TO THE CORINTHIANS - Chapter 14 - Verse 37

Verse 37. If any man think himself to be a prophet. See Barnes "1 Co 14:1".

If any man claim to be divinely endowed. Macknight renders it, "be really a prophet." But the more correct meaning here is, doubtless, "If any man profess to be a prophet; or is reputed to be a prophet." —Bloomfield. The proper meaning of the word dokew is, to seem to one's self; to be of opinion, to suppose, believe, etc.; and the reference here is to one who should regard himself, or who should believe and profess to be thus endowed.

Or spiritual. Regarding himself as under the extraordinary influence of the Spirit.

Let him acknowledge, etc. He will show that he is truly under the influence of the Holy Spirit, by acknowledging my authority, and by yielding obedience to the commands which I utter in the name and by the authority of the Lord. All would probably be disposed to acknowledge the right of Paul to speak to them; all would regard him as an apostle; and all would show that God had influenced their hearts, if they listened to his commands, and obeyed his injunctions. I do not speak by my own authority, or in my own name, says Paul. I speak in the name of the Lord; and to obey the commands of the Lord is a proof of being influenced by his Spirit. True religion everywhere, and the most ardent and enthusiastic zeal that is prompted by true religion, will show their genuineness and purity by a sacred and constant regard for the commands of the Lord. And that zeal which disregards those commands, and which tramples down the authority of the Scriptures, and the peace and order of the church, gives demonstration that it is not genuine. It is false zeal, and, however ardent, will not ultimately do good to the cause.

{b} "any man" 2 Co 10:7; 1 Jo 4:6