What does 1 Corinthians 2:7 mean?

But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 1 Corinthians 2:7

Explanation

The verse 1 Corinthians 2:7 is a statement by the Apostle Paul referring to the wisdom that comes from God, which is not of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. Paul is emphasizing that the true wisdom, which he is speaking of, is divine in origin, profound and not apparent to the secular world. It is described as “a mystery” and “hidden wisdom,” suggesting that it is not readily accessible or understandable through human wisdom. Instead, it is something that God has predetermined before the creation of the world for the benefit of those who love Him, with implications for their eternal glory. The verse thus suggests a divine purpose and destiny that is intertwined with God’s overall plan for creation and redemption.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around 53-54 AD. The city of Corinth was a significant commercial center in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, intellectualism, and moral laxity. The church there was facing divisions, moral issues, and misunderstandings regarding spiritual gifts and the resurrection. Paul’s intention in writing this letter was to address these issues and to teach the Corinthians about the ways of God as distinct from the wisdom of the world. By referring to the hidden wisdom of God, Paul is trying to contrast the eternal and divine wisdom with the temporary and often flawed human wisdom prevalent in Corinthian society.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may interpret this verse with some nuanced differences.

• Orthodox/Catholic perspective: The verse reflects God’s transcendent knowledge and mysterious plan for salvation. The “hidden wisdom” pertains to Jesus Christ and the redemption He brings, which was concealed until the New Testament revelation.
• Protestant perspective: This verse might be seen as aligning with the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, suggesting that divine wisdom, as revealed in Scripture, supersedes human wisdom and philosophies. Furthermore, it reinforces the idea of predestination and God’s sovereignty.
• Mystical/Spiritual perspective: The “hidden wisdom” might be seen as an invitation to a deeper spiritual understanding and experience of God that goes beyond intellectual comprehension.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of 1 Corinthians 2:7 in daily life include:

• Seeking Divine Guidance: Christians are encouraged to seek divine wisdom through prayer, Bible study, and spiritual discernment rather than relying solely on worldly knowledge or human intellect.
• Embracing Humility: Recognizing that true wisdom comes from God may inspire believers to approach life with humility, acknowledging that there is much that is beyond human understanding.
• Promoting Unity: In a world where wisdom often divides, this verse encourages believers to find unity in the wisdom God provides, which is meant for our collective glory, transcending denominational and intellectual differences.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 3:9: “And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:”
• Colossians 2:2-3: “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
• Romans 16:25-26: “Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,”

Language Study

In 1 Corinthians 2:7, key phrases in the original Greek include:

• “sophian theou en mysterio” (σοφίαν θεοῦ ἐν μυστηρίῳ): “the wisdom of God in a mystery” highlights that this wisdom is not just secret, but also sacred and divine.
• “proorisen” (προώρισεν): This term translated as “ordained” or “predestined” suggests a deliberate plan set by God in advance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient myths and religious interpretations, the concept of hidden wisdom is not unique to Christianity. Many ancient religions and philosophical traditions speak of esoteric knowledge accessible to only a select few. For example, the Eleusinian Mysteries of ancient Greece had initiates who were given secret knowledge. However, in Christianity, the hidden wisdom is specifically linked to the plan of God for salvation, which is available to all who believe, not just a select few.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly relate to scientific perspectives as it deals with spiritual and divine concepts that are beyond empirical analysis. However, the idea of mysteries and knowledge that are beyond human understanding can parallel how scientists view the limits of current scientific knowledge and the ever-present horizon of discovery.

Commentaries

Commentators have provided various insights on 1 Corinthians 2:7:

• John Calvin notes the contrast between human wisdom and divine wisdom and emphasizes that the mystery spoken of by Paul is now revealed in Christ.
• Matthew Henry states that this hidden wisdom is none other than the gospel of Christ which was ordained before the world for our glory.
• The Pulpit Commentary remarks on the eternal aspect of this wisdom and the plan of God, asserting that even angels were not fully aware of this mystery.
• Craig S. Keener, in his IVP Bible Background Commentary, discusses the cultural backdrop of Corinth and suggests that Paul’s reference to hidden wisdom counters the Corinthians’ fascination with status and elitist knowledge.