1 Corinthians 2:4

Authorized King James Version

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

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

ὁ

G3588

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

λόγοις

G3056

speech

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

μου

G3450

of me

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὸ

G3588

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

κήρυγμά

G2782

preaching

a proclamation (especially of the gospel; by implication, the gospel itself)

μου

G3450

of me

οὐκ

G3756

was not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#10

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#11

πειθοῖς

G3981

enticing

persuasive

#12

ἀνθρωπίνης

G442

of man's

human

#13

σοφίας

G4678

wisdom

wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)

#14

λόγοις

G3056

speech

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

#15

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#16

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#17

ἀποδείξει

G585

demonstration

manifestation

#18

πνεύματος

G4151

of the Spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

#19

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#20

δυνάμεως

G1411

of power

force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

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

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of wisdom differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on wisdom address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?

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