1 Corinthians 2:16

Authorized King James Version

For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Word-by-Word Analysis

τίς

G5101

who

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἔγνω

G1097

hath known

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

νοῦν

G3563

the mind

the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

κυρίου

G2962

of the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

ὃς

G3739

that

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

συμβιβάσει

G4822

he may instruct

causative (by reduplication) of the base of g0939); to drive together, i.e., unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach

αὐτόν

G846

him

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

ἡμεῖς

G2249

we (only used when emphatic)

#10

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

#11

νοῦν

G3563

the mind

the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

#12

Χριστοῦ

G5547

of Christ

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

#13

ἔχομεν

G2192

have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty 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 the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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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Topics

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