What does 1 Corinthians 14:36 mean?
What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? 1 Corinthians 14:36
Explanation
1 Corinthians 14:36 presents a rhetorical question by the Apostle Paul addressing the Christians in Corinth. In essence, Paul is challenging the Corinthian believers regarding their attitude towards spiritual gifts, particularly, their use of the gift of speaking in tongues during church gatherings. The verse is a rebuke to any who might think that they have exclusive ownership or a monopoly on the truth or spiritual revelations. Paul is emphasizing that the word of God (the Christian message and doctrine) did not originate from the Corinthians, nor was it meant exclusively for them. It is a reminder that they are part of a larger community of believers and that they must be careful in how they exercise their spiritual gifts so as not to convey an attitude of superiority or exclusivity.
Historical Context
The first letter to the Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 55. The church in Corinth was a diverse community within a city known for its wealth, philosophical sophistication, and moral looseness. The letter addresses various issues that were occurring within the church, including division, sexual immorality, and the use of spiritual gifts. In the broader context of chapter 14, Paul is particularly concerned with the orderly worship in the church and the proper use of the gift of tongues, insisting that the edification of the church is more important than individual expression of spiritual gifts.
Theological Insights
Theologians have found in this verse an affirmation of the universal nature of the Christian message. It reflects the idea that revelation is not the property of a select few but is given for the benefit of all. The verse also asserts the authority of the apostolic teaching, suggesting that the teachings of Paul and the other apostles reflected universally applicable truths rather than culturally-bound opinions. The verse is seen as reinforcing the concept of the unity of the church; despite diverse membership, there is no place for an exclusive claim to God’s word or a monopoly over God’s revelation.
Practical Applications
In a practical sense, this verse can serve as an admonishment against spiritual elitism or exclusivity in any form within the Christian community. It informs believers that they should not regard themselves or their congregation as the sole recipients or proprietors of divine truth. The broader application stresses the importance of humility, unity, and a shared mission in communicating and living out the teachings of Christianity. Furthermore, it serves as a reminder that spiritual gifts are meant for the common good and should be used in a way that serves and edifies the entire church, not just individual members.
Cross-References
- 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”
- 1 Corinthians 12:7 – “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.”
- Romans 12:3 – “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”
- Ephesians 4:4-6 – “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”
Language Study
Key words in the Greek text of 1 Corinthians 14:36 include:
- “η” (ē): Translated as “what?” It is used here rhetorically to challenge the readers.
- “αφ’ υμων” (aph’ humōn): Translated as “from you,” implying origin or source.
- “προς υμας” (pros humas): Translated as “unto you,” indicating direction or destination. These key terms underscore the exclusivity that Paul is addressing, emphasizing that the Corinthians are neither the source nor the sole recipients of God’s message.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Comparatively, religious exclusivity was not uncommon in ancient cultures. Many mystery religions of the time had esoteric knowledge accessible only to initiates. However, Christianity, as portrayed by Paul’s writings, counters this notion by emphasizing a message that is universally accessible and applicable. Paul’s challenge is set against the backdrop of a pluralistic society where exclusive claims to divine knowledge were prevalent among various sects.
Scientific Perspectives
While this verse does not directly engage with scientific topics, the principle of not claiming exclusive ownership of knowledge can be paralleled with the open sharing of information and peer review in the scientific community. Science thrives on collaborative effort and the universal accessibility of knowledge, which can be seen as a modern reflection of the ideals represented in this verse.
Commentaries
Commentators note that Paul’s strong language in 1 Corinthians 14:36 serves to correct an attitude of superiority among certain individuals or groups within the Corinthian church. John Calvin mentions that this verse rebukes those who, “as if they had been the first to be acquainted with God,” presume to be the sole teachers of others. Matthew Henry comments on the verse as a reminder that God’s gifts are for the edification of the church, and not for the honor or esteem of the one who possesses the gifts. Most commentators agree that Paul intended to foster unity and proper order in the use of spiritual gifts within the Christian assemblies of Corinth.
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