1 Corinthians 1:25

Authorized King James Version

Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅτι
Because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#2
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
μωρὸν
the foolishness
dull or stupid (as if shut up), i.e., heedless, (morally) blockhead, (apparently) absurd
#4
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#6
σοφώτερον
wiser than
wise (in a most general application)
#7
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἀνθρώπων
men
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#9
ἐστίν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#10
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἀσθενὲς
the weakness
strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral)
#13
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#15
ἰσχυρότερον
stronger than
forcible (literally or figuratively)
#16
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἀνθρώπων
men
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#18
ἐστίν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 1 Corinthians's theological argument.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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