Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought. Paul paradoxically affirms Christian wisdom after denouncing worldly wisdom. He speaks sophia (σοφία, "wisdom") to the teleioi (τέλειοι, "mature/perfect")—not esoteric knowledge for spiritual elites, but gospel truth for those regenerated by the Spirit (v. 14-15). This isn't sophia tou aiōnos toutou (σοφία τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου, "wisdom of this age") which is temporal and passing.
The princes of this world (archontes tou aiōnos toutou, ἄρχοντες τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου) likely refers to both human rulers (Pilate, Herod, Jewish leaders) and spiritual powers (Ephesians 6:12; Colossians 2:15). The phrase katargoumenōn (καταργουμένων, "coming to nought/being rendered powerless") indicates ongoing process—these powers are already being nullified through Christ's victory, though not yet fully abolished. Their wisdom proved bankrupt when they crucified the Lord of glory (v. 8).
Historical Context
First-century Judaism and Greek philosophy both claimed "wisdom" traditions. Rabbinic schools debated Torah interpretation; Greek philosophical schools (Stoics, Epicureans, Cynics) competed for adherents. Paul positions Christian wisdom as categorically different—revealed by God, not discovered by human reason. The "rulers of this age" includes both Roman authority (represented by Pilate) and Jewish leadership (represented by the Sanhedrin) who collaborated in Christ's crucifixion, inadvertently fulfilling God's redemptive plan.
Questions for Reflection
What worldly wisdom systems (political ideologies, psychological theories, philosophical movements) do Christians sometimes confuse with biblical wisdom?
How does the "coming to nought" of worldly powers provide hope when facing opposition to gospel truth?
What distinguishes mature Christian wisdom from immature understanding—and how do you grow from one to the other?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought. Paul paradoxically affirms Christian wisdom after denouncing worldly wisdom. He speaks sophia (σοφία, "wisdom") to the teleioi (τέλειοι, "mature/perfect")—not esoteric knowledge for spiritual elites, but gospel truth for those regenerated by the Spirit (v. 14-15). This isn't sophia tou aiōnos toutou (σοφία τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου, "wisdom of this age") which is temporal and passing.
The princes of this world (archontes tou aiōnos toutou, ἄρχοντες τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου) likely refers to both human rulers (Pilate, Herod, Jewish leaders) and spiritual powers (Ephesians 6:12; Colossians 2:15). The phrase katargoumenōn (καταργουμένων, "coming to nought/being rendered powerless") indicates ongoing process—these powers are already being nullified through Christ's victory, though not yet fully abolished. Their wisdom proved bankrupt when they crucified the Lord of glory (v. 8).