1 Corinthians 10:15
I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
Original Language Analysis
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
1 of 7
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
φρονίμοις
to wise men
G5429
φρονίμοις
to wise men
Strong's:
G5429
Word #:
2 of 7
thoughtful, i.e., sagacious or discreet (implying a cautious character; while g4680 denotes practical skill or acumen; and g4908 indicates rather inte
λέγω·
I speak
G3004
λέγω·
I speak
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Historical Context
Corinthian culture valued rhetorical skill and philosophical reasoning. The church absorbed this, creating factions around favored teachers (1:12). Paul uses their self-perception strategically—true wisdom sees truth clearly. The challenge is ironic: those who think themselves wise enough to handle idol-temple meals without spiritual compromise should be wise enough to recognize the theological incoherence of this position.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you cultivate discernment that evaluates teaching by Scripture rather than personal preference?
- What role does community wisdom (the church) play in judging doctrinal and ethical questions?
- In what areas might you be rationalizing sin under the guise of "wisdom" or "nuanced thinking"?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say—Paul appeals to Corinthian self-perception as phronimoi (φρόνιμοι, "wise/intelligent/sensible"). They prided themselves on wisdom and knowledge (1:18-25, 8:1). Rather than reject their self-assessment, Paul co-opts it: if you're truly wise, you'll recognize truth when you hear it. Judge ye (krinate hymeis, κρίνατε ὑμεῖς) invites them to evaluate his argument using their vaunted reasoning ability.
This rhetorical strategy is both respectful and challenging. Paul doesn't dictate mindless obedience but appeals to Spirit-illumined reason. True wisdom recognizes apostolic teaching as divine truth. The Corinthians claimed sophistication—Paul says, "Then be sophisticated enough to see that participation in idol-temple meals contradicts communion with Christ."
The invitation to judge what follows (vv. 16-22) implies Paul's argument is compelling to anyone reasoning rightly. He's not being arbitrary or authoritarian—the theology of the Lord's Supper makes temple-meal participation logically and spiritually impossible. If they're genuinely wise, they'll see this. If they don't, their supposed wisdom is revealed as folly.