Calvin on I Corinthians 14:13
What does Paul mean when he says: ‘Let a man who speaks in a foreign language, pray that he may translate it?’ Comments Calvin: “Here Paul is replying, by way of anticipation, to a question which could easily have been put to him [namely]: ‘Does that mean, then, that if anyone knows a foreign language, his gift will be useless?'”
‘Does that mean that he who speaks best in a foreign tongue, cannot be of any benefit to the congregation of Christ’s Church in Corinth?’ Answers Calvin: “Paul provides the remedy. ‘Let him ask God for the gift of interpretation also! If he does not have that — let him refrain, in the meantime, from giving an ostentatious performance!'” Alternatively — let others interpret it for him, instead!
