1 Corinthians 4:18
Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.
Original Language Analysis
ὡς
as though
G5613
ὡς
as though
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
1 of 9
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
2 of 9
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ἐρχομένου
come
G2064
ἐρχομένου
come
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
3 of 9
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
πρὸς
to
G4314
πρὸς
to
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
6 of 9
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
Historical Context
Ancient correspondence took weeks or months; personal visits were rare and expensive. Paul's apostolic itinerary depended on missionary circumstances, travel conditions, and divine guidance. The Corinthians' geographical distance (Corinth in Greece, Paul in Ephesus in Asia Minor) and time lag since his founding visit (Acts 18:1-18) may have emboldened opponents to challenge his authority, assuming he wouldn't or couldn't return to confront them personally.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways does physical or emotional distance from spiritual authority tempt you toward arrogance or rebellion?
- How do you respond when leaders you respect can't immediately address your situation—with patient trust or with dismissive independence?
- What 'puffed up' attitudes or behaviors might you hide when authority figures are present but indulge when they're absent?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. The verb ephysiōthēsan (ἐφυσιώθησαν, "became puffed up") appears again (cf. v. 6), marking Corinthian arrogance. Hōs mē erchomenou mou (ὡς μὴ ἐρχομένου μου, "as if I were not coming") reveals their presumption: assuming Paul wouldn't return, they felt emboldened to challenge his authority. Distance had bred contempt—his letters seemed weighty, but in-person presence weak (2 Cor 10:10).
This sets up the contrast in verses 19-21. The troublemakers assumed Paul's absence meant impunity, allowing them to spread dissent. Their arrogance (physiōsis) manifested in dismissing Paul's authority, questioning his apostleship, and fostering factionalism. Paul's response combines paternal patience (sending Timothy first) with firm warning—he will come, and will address not just words but spiritual power behind those words.