The Power of Amen

Do you know what you are really saying when you say “amen”?

“If you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say ‘Amen’ to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying?” (1 Corinthians 14:16).

“Amen.” It’s how we commonly end our prayers and add our agreement to something said or sung. This word has its roots in Hebrew and is the same word often translated “verily, verily” (or “truly, truly”).

Paul warned that it was possible to say “amen” out of habit or tradition, but he urged us to be aware of what has been said and add an “amen” only when we clearly know that a truth has been spoken, we sense the peace and presence of the Holy Spirit, or we recognize a confirmation of the Word and will of God.

Paul’s specific context was in regard to understanding what was said in public meetings: If a person “speaks in a tongue,” he should “pray that he may interpret” (v. 13). Paul was not discouraging speaking in tongues, but pointing out the importance of the listeners understanding what was being said. Without this awareness, they wouldn’t know how to respond—whether or not they should say “amen.”

Each of us needs to grow in our spiritual maturity and sensitivity to the leading of the Spirit. We are not to automatically accept every message, endorse every person, or believe everything we hear. We need to “know how to discern what is truly from God” (1 Corinthians 12:3 NLT).

Fill your mind with God’s Word. Spend quality time with Him in prayer. Be filled with His Spirit and learn to hear His voice.

Reflection Question: Do you take the time to seek God’s discernment before hastily agreeing?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the word “amen” actually mean?

“Amen” comes from a Hebrew root meaning “to be firm” or “to confirm‚” often translated “truly” or “so be it.” It expresses agreement that something spoken is trustworthy—the same root behind Jesus’s frequent phrase “truly‚ truly I say to you.”

What was Paul’s concern about tongues in public worship?

In 1 Corinthians 14‚ Paul affirms speaking in tongues as a valid gift but insists it be interpreted in corporate gatherings (v. 5‚ 13‚ 27–28) so the whole congregation can understand‚ respond‚ and be built up rather than left confused.