1 Corinthians 1:17

Authorized King James Version

For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

Word-by-Word Analysis

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἀπέστειλέν

G649

sent

set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively

με

G3165

Χριστοῦ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

βαπτίζειν

G907

to baptize

to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

εὐαγγελίζεσθαι

G2097

to preach the gospel

to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#10

ἐν

G1722

with

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#11

σοφίᾳ

G4678

wisdom

wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)

#12

λόγου

G3056

of words

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

#13

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#14

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#15

κενωθῇ

G2758

should be made of none effect

to make empty, i.e., (figuratively) to abase, neutralize, falsify

#16

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#17

σταυρὸς

G4716

the cross

a stake or post (as set upright), i.e., (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e.,

#18

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#19

Χριστοῦ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of wisdom reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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