Note 17 at 1 Cor. 14:31: The Greek word "mathetes" (disciple) used as a noun is derived from the verb "manthano" (to learn) which is used in this passage. It is translated 24 times in the King James "to learn" and one time "to understand."

About a dozen different Greek and Hebrew words are associated with teaching and learning in the Old and New Testaments. Teaching and learning, in the scriptures, are much more than academic. It involves being guided by God's principles in relationship to others, as well as knowing and responding to God. It calls for the learner to put the Word of God into practice, not just hear it (Jas. 1:22). It involves hearing a word from the outside and putting it on the inside, so that it may be expressed in our every action. Proverbs 2 tells us to incline our ear unto wisdom, apply our heart to understanding, cry after knowledge, lift up our voice for understanding, seek her as silver, search for her like hid treasures, and then we will understand and find the knowledge of God (Prov. 2:1-7). God says, "My people are destroyed for the lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6), and admonishes us to meditate in His Word day and night that we may observe to do all that is written therein (Josh. 1:8; Ps. 1:1-3; 1 Tim. 4:15-16).

Therefore, Paul's statement here is complimentary to his instruction that all things should be done unto edifying (vv. 12, 26). If those present cannot be taught by what is being done, then it shouldn't be done.

Note 18 at 1 Cor. 14:31: Just as with the gift of tongues (that which was spoken in the church was to benefit everyone) so it was with prophecy. Those listening were to learn and be comforted.

Note 19 at 1 Cor. 14:31: The end result of prophecy is that it should comfort, encourage, edify, strengthen, exhort, stimulate and help (1 Cor. 14:3, 31). These should be the guidelines for prophecy within the New Testament church (Rom. 1:12; 2 Cor. 1:4; Eph. 6:22; 1 Th. 4:18; 5:11, 14).