What does 1 Corinthians 4:19 mean?

But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power. 1 Corinthians 4:19

Explanation

The passage from 1 Corinthians 4:19 is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church of Corinth. In this verse, Paul is addressing the issue of arrogance and pretentiousness within the community. He emphasizes his intention to visit the Corinthians but notes that his plans are contingent upon God’s will – “if the Lord will.” He expresses a desire to test the legitimacy of those who are “puffed up,” or arrogant, by evaluating not their lofty speech but the genuine power of their ministry. The scripture implies that the true test of apostolic authority and Christian leadership is not in eloquent words but in the demonstration of God’s power in one’s actions and teachings.

Historical Context

The First Epistle to the Corinthians was written by Paul circa A.D. 53–54, during his three-year stay in Ephesus, as part of his third missionary journey. The church in Corinth was a community fraught with problems, including divisions, immorality, and challenges to authority. Paul’s letter aimed to address these issues and to guide the early Christians of Corinth back to unity and proper Christian conduct. During this era, rhetorical skill was highly valued in Greek culture, and it was not uncommon for public figures to be judged by their oratorical prowess. Paul confronts this cultural tendency by stressing spiritual power over articulate speech.

Theological Insights

Different theological streams extract varied meanings from this verse:

• Traditional Protestant View: A belief that divine sovereignty and providence are fundamental, emphasizing that all actions, including Paul’s visit, depend on God’s will.

• Pentecostal Perspective: Focuses on the “power” Paul refers to, often interpreting it as manifestations of the Spirit and miraculous works that authenticate a ministry.

• Catholic Interpretation: Relates to the importance of apostolic authority and tradition, viewing Paul’s challenge as a defense of authentic teaching and practice that align with the church’s teachings.

• Reformed Theology: Emphasizes the futility of boasting in human achievements and the importance of recognizing God’s power in the transformation of lives.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages humility and dependence on God’s will for planning and decision-making. It also challenges believers to reflect on the source of their confidence and authority. Are they relying on their abilities or God’s power manifesting through them? Christians are reminded to prioritize substance over style, ensuring that their faith is demonstrated by their deeds rather than their words. It also advocates for the importance of discernment, evaluating religious leaders and teachings based on the evidence of God’s power, not merely persuasive rhetoric.

Cross-References

• James 4:15: “For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”
• 2 Corinthians 10:18: “For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.”
• 1 Thessalonians 1:5: “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.”

Language Study

• “Shortly” (Greek: “ταχύ”/”tachu”): Often translated as “soon” or “quickly,” indicating Paul’s intention to visit in the near future.
• “If the Lord will” (Greek: “ἐὰν ὁ Κύριος θελήσῃ”/”ean ho Kyrios thelēsēi”): Reflects a subjunctive mood conveying Paul’s submission to God’s will.
• “Puffed up” (Greek: “φυσιοῦνται”/”physiountai”): Describes arrogance or being inflated with pride, much like the literal blowing up of a balloon.
• “Power” (Greek: “δύναμις”/”dynamis”): Indicates strength, ability, or miraculous power. It is the same word from which we get “dynamic” and “dynamite.”

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Greco-Roman culture, sophists and orators were often regarded for their ability to persuade and speak well. Paul’s message contrasts with this by emphasizing divinely-gifted power over human eloquence. Comparing this to other ancient mythologies, Greek gods were often attributed power based on their martial prowess or ability to control natural forces. In contrast, the Christian worldview presented here equates true power with moral integrity and divine backing.

Scientific Perspectives

Science tends to view assertions of supernatural power with skepticism, preferring natural explanations and empirical evidence. Therefore, the power Paul speaks of is not verifiable in scientific terms but is a matter of personal and communal religious experience. Modern psychology might study the effects of belief in such power on behavior and mental health, while sociology could examine its impact on group dynamics and social structures.

Commentaries

Expert commentaries on this verse often underscore the humility needed for Christian service and leadership. Respected authorities such as John Calvin, Matthew Henry, and contemporary scholars mention Paul’s submission to God’s will, his challenge to mere rhetoric without substance, and the distinction between godly authority and worldly standards of influence. Many concur that Paul’s intention to test the Corinthians’ leaders by their “power” refers to the effectiveness of their ministry in changing lives through the Holy Spirit’s work.