What does 1 Corinthians 1:27 mean?

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; 1 Corinthians 1:27

Explanation

1 Corinthians 1:27 is a verse that discusses the paradoxical way in which God accomplishes His purposes. The verse states that God has chosen what the world considers ‘foolish’ to shame the wise and has chosen what the world considers ‘weak’ to shame the strong. In its literal sense, the ‘foolish’ and ‘weak’ could refer to people, ideas, or situations that are not esteemed or regarded highly by society’s standards. The deeper meaning implies that God’s criteria for selecting instruments for His work differ from human expectations. The verse emphasizes the divine reversal of human values, suggesting that God’s wisdom and power transcend human wisdom and strength. Through this, God demonstrates that His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts.

Historical Context

This verse is part of Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthians, written approximately in A.D. 55. The city of Corinth was a major Greek city known for its wealth, intellectual prowess, and moral corruption. The Christian community in Corinth was struggling with division, boasting, and an infatuation with worldly wisdom and status. Paul wrote this letter to address the issues within the church and to call the believers back to the simplicity and purity of the gospel. He contrasts the wisdom of God with the wisdom of the world, reminding the Corinthians that their faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

Theological Insights

The verse offers several theological insights. From a Christian perspective, it underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing the means by which He reveals Himself and accomplishes His purposes. It reflects a theme found throughout the Bible: God often works through unexpected people and ways. The theology of the cross is central to this concept, as the crucifixion of Jesus is the prime example of how apparent foolishness and weakness were God’s means to bring about salvation.

From a Calvinist viewpoint, it highlights the doctrine of God’s elective purposes, suggesting that God’s choices are based on His will rather than human merit. An Arminian perspective would focus more on the inclusive nature of God’s choice, suggesting that it offers hope to all, regardless of their societal status. Liberation theology might see in this verse a call to recognize the presence of God in the marginalized and oppressed.

Practical Applications

This verse has several practical applications. It serves as an encouragement to those who feel insignificant or undervalued by society. It reminds believers that they can be used by God for His purposes, regardless of their background or abilities. The verse also challenges individuals to re-examine their values and judgments based on worldly standards of wisdom and strength. It encourages humility and an openness to the unexpected ways God may work in one’s life.

Cross-References

• “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:” (1 Corinthians 1:26)
• “But he hath chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him.” (James 2:5)
• “And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:” (1 Corinthians 1:28)
• “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8)

Language Study

Key Greek words used in this verse include:

• “Mōros” (foolish): Derived from the root word from which we get “moron,” can imply being “without knowledge.”
• “Katanischyō” (to shame, to confound): Conveys the idea of bringing to shame, humiliating, or proving wrong.
• “Asthenēs” (weak): This word can refer to being weak in terms of strength, resources, or even social standing.

Analyzing these words, the passage underlines the stark contrast between human and divine evaluation of what and who is valuable or powerful.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Greco-Roman world, wisdom and power were highly esteemed, and achievements in these areas were grounds for social status. In this cultural context, Paul’s message was countercultural. Many ancient religions and myths celebrated heroes who demonstrated great wisdom or strength. In contrast, the Christian message celebrated a God who worked through what the world considered lowly and insignificant.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, this verse does not directly engage with empirical observations or hypotheses. However, the concept of the ‘underdog’ prevailing against the odds is a phenomenon that can be observed in various contexts, such as evolutionary biology, where less dominant traits can sometimes provide unexpected survival benefits.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentators have provided interpretations of this verse. Matthew Henry states that God chooses the weak and foolish to confound the mighty so that none may boast before Him, emphasizing humility. John Calvin notes that God’s choices are made to humble the pride of the flesh and establish His own glory. Contemporary commentators like N.T. Wright discuss how Paul’s message radically subverts worldly values and systems of honor. They highlight that 1 Corinthians 1:27 calls for a reevaluation of what is truly valuable in the sight of God.