1 Corinthians 13:9
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
Original Language Analysis
ἐκ
in
G1537
ἐκ
in
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
1 of 8
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
μέρους
part
G3313
μέρους
part
Strong's:
G3313
Word #:
2 of 8
a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
γινώσκομεν
we know
G1097
γινώσκομεν
we know
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
4 of 8
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐκ
in
G1537
ἐκ
in
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
6 of 8
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Cross References
Psalms 139:6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.1 Corinthians 2:9But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.1 Corinthians 13:12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.1 Corinthians 8:2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.Psalms 40:5Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.Proverbs 30:4Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?Matthew 11:27All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.1 John 3:2Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.Ephesians 3:8Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;Romans 11:34For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?
Historical Context
The Corinthians' obsession with spiritual knowledge (gnōsis) and prophetic gifting led them to believe they had arrived at spiritual perfection (4:8, "Already you are filled! Already you have become rich! Without us you have become kings!"). Paul confronts their realized eschatology by insisting that even the highest gifts are fragmentary in this age. Complete knowledge awaits the age to come.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing that your theological knowledge is 'in part' cultivate humility in doctrinal discussions and denominational debates?
- In what ways might you be guilty of the Corinthian error of thinking you've 'arrived' spiritually or intellectually?
- How should 'we know in part' affect your attitude toward Christians who disagree with you on secondary theological matters?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For we know in part (ἐκ μέρους γινώσκομεν, ek merous ginōskomen)—Ek merous means "from a part" or "partially." Ginōskō is experiential, relational knowledge. Our current theological understanding, biblical expertise, and spiritual insight are fragmentary, incomplete. Even our best grasp of God's truth is like seeing individual puzzle pieces without the full picture.
And we prophesy in part (καὶ ἐκ μέρους προφητεύομεν, kai ek merous prophēteuomen)—Even Spirit-inspired proclamation is partial. Prophets don't have comprehensive revelation; they speak what God gives them in the moment. The repetition of ek merous emphasizes the limitation: all current spiritual gifts operate within the constraints of this age.
This verse grounds the previous statement (v. 8) that gifts will be abolished. Why? Because they're partial by nature. Prophecy and knowledge are like scaffolding around a building under construction—necessary now, but removed when the building is complete. Paul is preparing for verse 12's contrast: now we see dimly, then face to face.