1 Corinthians 4:20
For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
λόγῳ
word
G3056
λόγῳ
word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
4 of 11
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλεία
the kingdom
G932
βασιλεία
the kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
8 of 11
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Cross References
1 Corinthians 2:4And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:1 Thessalonians 1:5For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.Romans 14:17For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.Romans 1:16For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.Romans 15:19Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.1 Corinthians 1:24But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Historical Context
The phrase 'kingdom of God' was central to Jesus's teaching (Mark 1:15; Luke 4:43) and early Christian proclamation (Acts 8:12; 19:8; 20:25; 28:23, 31). Paul uses it less frequently than the Synoptics but with consistent meaning: God's saving reign inaugurated in Christ, present now through the Spirit, consummated at Christ's return. The Corinthians' over-realized eschatology (v. 8) and obsession with rhetorical wisdom (1:17-2:5) both missed this point: God's kingdom comes not through impressive words but transforming power.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you assess whether your Christian life is characterized by genuine Spirit-power or merely eloquent words about the faith?
- What evidence of the kingdom's power—transformed character, sacrificial love, Spirit-filled boldness—marks your life and church community?
- In what specific ways can you move beyond talking about the gospel to demonstrating its life-changing power?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. This terse summary encapsulates Paul's argument. Hē basileia tou Theou (ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ, "the kingdom of God") is not en logō (ἐν λόγῳ, "in word/speech") but en dynamei (ἐν δυνάμει, "in power"). Logos here means empty rhetoric, impressive but impotent talk. Dynamis refers to the Spirit's transformative power—regeneration, sanctification, miracles, boldness under persecution, genuine love (Rom 1:16; 15:13, 19; 1 Thess 1:5).
This principle applies beyond the Corinthian context. God's reign manifests not through eloquent preaching or theological sophistication alone but through lives transformed by the Spirit. The kingdom advances when the gospel's power breaks addictions, reconciles enemies, produces joy amid suffering, and inspires sacrificial love. Paul's entire ministry validated this truth—his message seemed foolish by worldly standards, yet the Spirit used it to plant churches and transform lives (2:4-5).