A common misinterpretation views this verse as a blanket condemnation of childlike qualities in faith or spirituality, ignoring the specific contrast Paul draws between immature thinking in doctrinal matters and the positive childlike innocence toward evil; others twist it to justify worldly cunning or malice under the guise of 'adult' maturity, or apply it outside its context of orderly worship in 1 Corinthians 14 to dismiss emotional or simple expressions of faith.
I Corinthians 14:20
King James Version (1769)
20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
Paul exhorts the Corinthian believers to mature in their understanding and discernment, particularly in the context of spiritual gifts and church order, urging them not to be childish or immature in wisdom but to emulate the innocence of children when it comes to harboring malice or evil intentions, thereby promoting spiritual growth alongside purity of heart.