3.
A. The question is a mistake. The prophets are not considered as a distinct body of persons at all. It is not of οί προφηται, but such. In verse 31 it is stated, “You can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged.” “Let the prophets speak” is a false translation; so is “the spirits of the prophets.” It should be, “the spirits of prophets.” Hence the whole question falls to the ground. The passage is the same as if the apostle should say, “(As to) prophets, let two or three persons speak and the rest judge. If there be a revelation to another person sitting by, let the first hold his peace. For you may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be encouraged. And the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets; (i.e., he can control himself, and stop, if another has anything to say.) For God is not the author of confusion, (two or three speaking at once), but of order, as in all assemblies of the saints. Let your women keep silence in the assemblies, for it is not permitted to them to speak.” To all others it is permitted, if the Spirit gives them anything.