Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - 1 Corinthians 14:39-40
1 Corinthians 14:39-40. Wherefore, brethren To conclude this long discourse, and sum up the whole in a few words; covet to prophesy To discourse about divine things in a way that will edify others; and yet forbid not Those who are willing to do it under such regulations as have now been advanced; to speak with tongues For it is a noble endowment, which I would encourage none to slight or neglect: only take care that all things In your religious assemblies; be done decently and in... read more
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - 1 Corinthians 14:39
Covet to prophesy - See the note at 1 Corinthians 14:1. This is the “summing up” of all that he had said. It was “desirable” that a man should wish to be able to speak, under the teaching of the Holy Spirit, in such a manner as to edify the church.And forbid not ... - Do not suppose that the power of speaking foreign languages is useless, or is to be despised, or that it is to be prohibited. “In its own place” it is a valuable endowment; and on proper occasions the talent should be exercised;... read more