1 Corinthians 1:24

But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

αὐτοῖς

G846

unto them

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

τοῖς

G3588

which

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

κλητοῖς

G2822

are called

invited, i.e., appointed, or (specially), a saint

Ἰουδαίοις

G2453

Jews

judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah

τε

G5037

both

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Ἕλλησιν

G1672

Greeks

a hellen (grecian) or inhabitant of hellas; by extension a greek-speaking person, especially a non-jew

Χριστὸν

G5547

Christ

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

#10

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#11

δύναμιν

G1411

the power

force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#14

σοφίαν·

G4678

the wisdom

wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of wisdom reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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 this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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