1 Corinthians 1:28

Authorized King James Version

And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

ἀγενῆ

G36

base things

properly, without kin, i.e., (of unknown descent, and by implication) ignoble

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

κόσμου

G2889

of the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

ἐξουθενημένα

G1848

things which are despised

to despise

ἐξελέξατο

G1586

chosen

to select

#10

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

#11

θεός

G2316

God

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

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#13

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

#14

μὴ

G3361

not

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

#15

ὄντα

G5607

are

being

#16

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#17

τὰ

G3588

things which

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

#18

ὄντα

G5607

are

being

#19

καταργήσῃ

G2673

bring to nought

to be (render) entirely idle (useless), literally or figuratively

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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