1 Corinthians 4:14
I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.
Original Language Analysis
ἐντρέπων
to shame
G1788
ἐντρέπων
to shame
Strong's:
G1788
Word #:
2 of 11
to invert, i.e., (figuratively and reflexively) in a good sense, to respect; or in a bad one, to confound
γράφω
I write
G1125
γράφω
I write
Strong's:
G1125
Word #:
4 of 11
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 2:11As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,1 Corinthians 9:15But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.1 Corinthians 4:15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.3 John 1:4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.Colossians 1:28Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:2 Corinthians 12:19Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.1 Thessalonians 5:14Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
Historical Context
In Greco-Roman households, the paterfamilias wielded authority but also responsibility for children's moral formation. Fathers balanced discipline with affection, correction with encouragement. Paul adopts this framework for apostolic ministry—he founded the Corinthian church (Acts 18:1-18), making him their spiritual progenitor. This familial intimacy distinguishes his relationship from later teachers who merely instructed an already-established community.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you receive correction from spiritual leaders—with defensiveness and resentment, or with trust that it comes from fatherly love?
- When you must confront fellow believers, do you lead with judgment or with the kind of affectionate concern Paul models here?
- Who are your spiritual 'children'—those you've led to Christ or discipled—and how faithfully are you exercising loving correction when needed?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. The verb entrepō (ἐντρέπω, "to shame/humiliate") clarifies Paul's intent—not public humiliation but paternal correction. Nouthetōn (νουθετῶν, "warning/admonishing") combines nous (mind) and tithēmi (to place)—literally "placing in mind," confronting with truth for behavioral change. The term appears in contexts of disciplinary love (Rom 15:14; Col 3:16; 1 Thess 5:12, 14; 2 Thess 3:15).
As my beloved sons (hōs tekna mou agapēta, ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητά) establishes the relationship grounding correction. Agapēta ("beloved") is an affectionate term Paul uses for those dearest to him (Phil 2:12; 4:1). His harsh irony (vv. 8-13) flows from pastoral love, not vindictiveness. Like a father disciplining wayward children, Paul's goal is restoration, not retribution. This paternal metaphor (developed in v. 15) contrasts with the Corinthians' multiple "instructors" (pedagogues), positioning Paul uniquely as spiritual father.