In the world of extreme charismaticism where the “Health and Wealth gospel” reigns supreme, and where spectacle trumps scripture, notorious false teacher and charismatic self-appointed NAR “apostle,” Joseph Prince, claims that speaking and praying in tongues heals our bodies from diseases and infirmities. In an epic Scripture twist, he points at 1 Corinthians 14:4 to claim that this spectacle is akin to a divine healthcare plan.

Here’s a thought: instead of contorting scripture to suit the whims of wellness theology, why not actually read and understand what Paul was driving at in 1 Corinthians 14:4? Paul, in his epistle, wasn’t handing out get-well-soon cards powered by glossolalia—he was pressing the Corinthian church to pursue gifts that edify the body of Christ, not just self-indulge in spiritual showboating. The edification Paul talks about is of the spirit, of the community, not a backdoor prescription for personal physical healing.

And yet, here we are, having to address the claim that muttering and babbling in unknown gibberish is somehow the biblical equivalent of a health supplement. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians was a plea for order, understanding, and mutual edification within the church. It was about clarity over chaos, meaning over mystery—in essence, ensuring that the spiritual gifts were employed in service to the congregation, not the ego.

To twist that into a bizarre health claim is not just a misreading, it’s a disservice to the text, to the Church, and frankly, to common sense. If Paul were here today, one might imagine him more than a little annoyed at having his words warped into a spiritualized self-help gimmick. Let’s get real, the most healing thing we can do is align closely with the true intent of scripture, fostering a community that lifts each other up in understanding and faith, rather than chasing after misinterpreted promises of personal health benefits.