1 Corinthians 3:1
And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
Original Language Analysis
Καὶ
And
G2532
Καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
3 of 16
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
8 of 16
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
πνευματικοῖς
unto spiritual
G4152
πνευματικοῖς
unto spiritual
Strong's:
G4152
Word #:
9 of 16
non-carnal, i.e., (humanly) ethereal (as opposed to gross), or (daemoniacally) a spirit (concretely), or (divinely) supernatural, regenerate, religiou
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
10 of 16
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
11 of 16
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
σαρκικοῖς
unto carnal
G4559
σαρκικοῖς
unto carnal
Strong's:
G4559
Word #:
12 of 16
pertaining to flesh, i.e., (by extension) bodily, temporal, or (by implication) animal, unregenerate
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
13 of 16
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
Cross References
Hebrews 5:13For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.1 Corinthians 2:6Howbeit 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:1 Corinthians 14:20Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.Romans 7:14For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.1 John 2:12I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.Galatians 6:1Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.Matthew 16:23But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 1 Corinthians was written around 55 CE from Ephesus to Divided church in Corinth with multiple issues.
Occasion: Reports of divisions, immorality, and doctrinal questions. The Greco-Roman world valued rhetoric, philosophy, and social status. Paul's message of a crucified Messiah and salvation by grace challenged these values.
First-century believers lived in a pluralistic, pagan society with many parallels to today. Social structures, economic pressures, and religious confusion all challenged Christian witness. Paul's instructions addressed both timeless theological truths and specific cultural situations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 1 Corinthians 3:1 deepen my understanding of the gospel and God's character?
- What specific action or attitude change does this verse call me to make this week?
- How can I better contribute to the unity and growth of my local church?
Analysis & Commentary
And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
Paul addresses divisions in the Corinthian church and the nature of true wisdom. This verse contributes to Paul's overall purpose in 1 Corinthians: Address church problems and answer doctrinal questions. The key themes of church unity, wisdom vs. foolishness, spiritual gifts are evident in this passage. The Holy Spirit empowers believers for holiness and service, applying Christ's work to our lives. Christ is the center of Paul's theology and message - Savior, Lord, and example for believers.