Note 28 at 1 Cor. 14:39: The word "covet" can be used either in a good sense or a bad sense. Paul is using this Greek verb "zeloo" (covet) in a good way to encourage believers to pursue the gift of prophecy for the edification of the church. The Greek word "zeloo," when used as Paul is using it here, means "to pursue, strive after, be enthusiastic for, or to desire earnestly" to prophesy.

Note 29 at 1 Cor. 14:39: The literal rendering of the Greek in this verse is "to speak with tongues do not forbid" (Interlinear Greek-Eng. N.T.). Paul is using the Greek verb "koluo" to state do not hinder, prevent or forbid, withhold or deny or refuse the use of the gift of tongues (Thayer). A similar attitude is stated by Peter in Acts 11:17 when he says, "Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?"