1 Corinthians 13:10
But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
Original Language Analysis
ὅταν
when
G3752
ὅταν
when
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
1 of 10
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
ἔλθῃ
is come
G2064
ἔλθῃ
is come
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
3 of 10
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τέλειον
that which is perfect
G5046
τέλειον
that which is perfect
Strong's:
G5046
Word #:
5 of 10
complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with g3588) completeness
τότε
then
G5119
τότε
then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
6 of 10
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκ
that which is in
G1537
ἐκ
that which is in
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
8 of 10
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Cross References
1 Corinthians 13:12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.Isaiah 24:23Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.
Historical Context
Some Corinthians believed they had already attained spiritual perfection through knowledge and gifts (4:8). Paul insists that "the perfect" is still future. Early church fathers (Chrysostom, Augustine) understood to teleion as the eschaton, the final state. The "canon completion" view arose in the 20th century, primarily to argue for cessationism, but lacks exegetical and historical support.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse challenge both charismatic triumphalism (overvaluing gifts) and cessationist rationalism (dismissing gifts)?
- What would change in your spiritual life if you truly believed that your current knowledge and gifting are temporary scaffolding for love's eternal building?
- How should the promise of future 'perfection' affect your discontent with present spiritual limitations and church imperfections?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But when that which is perfect is come (ὅταν δὲ ἔλθῃ τὸ τέλειον, hotan de elthē to teleion)—To teleion is "the perfect," "the complete," or "the mature." Debate centers on its referent:
Context strongly favors the first: the next verse contrasts childhood with maturity, and verse 12 contrasts present obscurity with seeing "face to face"—clearly eschatological language echoing Numbers 12:8 and 1 John 3:2.
Then that which is in part shall be done away (τὸ ἐκ μέρους καταργηθήσεται, to ek merous katargēthēsetai)—The same verb from verse 8: "abolished, rendered inoperative." When completeness arrives, partiality becomes obsolete. When we see Christ face to face and are fully transformed into His image (1 John 3:2), we won't need prophetic revelation (we'll see Truth Himself), fragmented knowledge (we'll know fully), or tongues (we'll communicate perfectly).
This doesn't diminish the value of gifts now; it puts them in perspective. They're tools for this age, means to an end (building up the church in love), not the end itself. Love, by contrast, continues into perfection.