1 Corinthians 3:4
For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
Original Language Analysis
ὅταν
while
G3752
ὅταν
while
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
1 of 15
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 15
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
λέγῃ
saith
G3004
λέγῃ
saith
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 15
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
μέν
G3303
μέν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
6 of 15
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
Παύλου
of Paul
G3972
Παύλου
of Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
8 of 15
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
Historical Context
In first-century Corinth, itinerant teachers (sophists) attracted followers through rhetorical prowess, creating competitive schools. The church imported this model, treating Paul, Apollos, and Peter as rival teachers rather than fellow servants. This abuse of leadership reflects a broader Corinthian problem: elevating human wisdom, status, and power rather than embracing the 'foolishness' of the cross (1:18-25).
Questions for Reflection
- Do you identify more strongly with a particular pastor, author, or theological tradition than with Christ himself?
- What 'party spirit' in your church or denomination fragments unity—loyalty to personalities, methods, or secondary doctrines?
- How can you honor faithful teachers without creating the personality cults Paul condemns?
Analysis & Commentary
For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?—Paul reduces their complex factionalism to its essence: personality cults dividing Christ's body. The partisans likely claimed theological justification—Paul emphasized grace and freedom; Apollos brought eloquent OT exposition (Acts 18:24-28); Cephas (Peter) represented Jerusalem apostolic authority; the 'Christ party' (1:12) perhaps claimed superior spirituality. Yet all factionalism, regardless of stated rationale, is sarkikos (carnal).
The repetition 'are ye not carnal?' drives home Paul's diagnosis. Their divisions revealed not doctrinal maturity but spiritual infantility. Each faction elevated human leaders into positions reserved for Christ alone. This idolatry of personalities persists today—believers aligning with celebrity pastors, theological tribes, or denominational brands rather than centering on Christ. Paul's question implicitly answers itself: yes, such behavior is definitively carnal, betraying allegiance to the flesh rather than submission to the Spirit who unites all believers in one body (Ephesians 4:3-6).