What does 1 Corinthians 2:13 mean?

Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 1 Corinthians 2:13

Explanation

1 Corinthians 2:13 presents an important aspect of Paul the Apostle’s teaching on the relationship between human wisdom and divine wisdom, particularly as imparted by the Holy Spirit. In this verse, Paul contrasts the language and wisdom of humans with that which is taught by the Holy Spirit. He points out that the teachings he and other apostles impart are not based on human wisdom but are divinely inspired. The implication is that spiritual truths are of a different nature and can only be communicated effectively through spiritual means, understood by those who are spiritually minded or have the Spirit of God.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians in the context of issues arising in the Christian community in Corinth. The city was known for its rich cultural diversity, intellectualism, and spirit of philosophical inquiry, which was influenced by Greek culture and philosophy. In this cosmopolitan environment, conflicts arose around the nature of wisdom and knowledge. Some in the church may have been elevating human wisdom over the teachings of the gospel, leading Paul to address the difference between secular and divine wisdom.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the verse emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing and teaching spiritual truths. It suggests that human wisdom, no matter how advanced or sophisticated, is not adequate for understanding the things of God. The verse supports the concept of spiritual illumination—the idea that the Holy Spirit enlightens the minds of believers to understand spiritual realities. The juxtaposition of “man’s wisdom” with the teaching of the “Holy Ghost” indicates that genuine spiritual insight is a gift from God and not a product of human intellectual effort alone.

Practical Applications

In daily life, 1 Corinthians 2:13 can be applied by reminding Christians to seek divine guidance through prayer, meditation, and the study of Scripture rather than relying solely on human perspectives. It suggests prioritizing spiritual discernment when grappling with issues of faith and moral decisions. This verse encourages believers to be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in understanding God’s will and to communicate their faith to others in ways that are inspired by the Spirit rather than just human eloquence or wisdom.

Cross-References

• John 14:26: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
• 1 Corinthians 1:25: “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”
• Romans 8:26-27: “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”
• James 3:17: “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”
• Ephesians 1:17: “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:”

Language Study

In the original Greek, the verse includes significant terms such as:

• “λαλοῦμεν” (laloumen): Translates as “we speak,” indicating an active communication of divine truths.
• “διδακτοῖς” (didaktois): Derived from “διδάσκω” (didasko) meaning “teach,” referring to what is taught or instructed.
• “Ἁγίου Πνεύματος” (Hagiou Pneumatos): “Holy Ghost” or “Holy Spirit,” the source of divine wisdom.
• “συγκρίνοντες” (synkrinontes): “Comparing” or “interpreting,” suggesting the action of relating or discerning spiritual truths.

The use of these terms stresses the transmission of wisdom through divine inspiration rather than through conventional human teaching methods.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Greco-Roman world, teachers and philosophers were venerated for their wisdom and rhetorical skills. Christianity, by contrast, claimed that ultimate truth came from divine revelation rather than human philosophy. This was a significant departure from the cultural norm. Beyond Christianity, various ancient religious traditions also value the concept of wisdom received from the divine or supernatural sources. For instance, in Jewish tradition, wisdom (Chokmah) is seen as emanating from God.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself does not directly relate to scientific perspectives, it does touch upon the epistemological question of how we know what we know. In a modern scientific context, knowledge is often acquired through empirical evidence and rational inquiry. The verse challenges the scientific view by introducing the idea of spiritual intuition or revelation as a valid source of knowledge. Although not scientifically verifiable, this form of knowledge is a key component of religious experience and belief.

Commentaries

Commentators have provided varied insights into 1 Corinthians 2:13. Some emphasize the distinctiveness of spiritual wisdom from worldly wisdom, while others focus on the Holy Spirit’s role in divine revelation. For example, the Matthew Henry Commentary underscores that the truths of God are revealed in a spiritual manner. Barnes’ Notes on the Bible discusses how Paul does not rely on human philosophy but on the doctrines which the Holy Spirit teaches, displaying the Spirit’s power in enlightening the minds of people. Most commentaries agree on the essential role of the Holy Spirit in Christian understanding and the distinctness of spiritual knowledge from human knowledge.