1 Corinthians 3:6
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
Original Language Analysis
ἐφύτευσα
have planted
G5452
ἐφύτευσα
have planted
Strong's:
G5452
Word #:
2 of 8
to set out in the earth, i.e., implant; figuratively, to instil doctrine
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Proverbs 11:25The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.1 Corinthians 1:30But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:1 Corinthians 9:1Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?Isaiah 61:11For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.Acts 11:18When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.Acts 19:1And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 1 Corinthians was written around 55 CE from Ephesus to Divided church in Corinth with multiple issues.
Occasion: Reports of divisions, immorality, and doctrinal questions. The Greco-Roman world valued rhetoric, philosophy, and social status. Paul's message of a crucified Messiah and salvation by grace challenged these values.
First-century believers lived in a pluralistic, pagan society with many parallels to today. Social structures, economic pressures, and religious confusion all challenged Christian witness. Paul's instructions addressed both timeless theological truths and specific cultural situations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 1 Corinthians 3:6 deepen my understanding of the gospel and God's character?
- What specific action or attitude change does this verse call me to make this week?
- How does this passage point to Christ and His redemptive work?
Analysis & Commentary
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
Paul addresses divisions in the Corinthian church and the nature of true wisdom. This verse contributes to Paul's overall purpose in 1 Corinthians: Address church problems and answer doctrinal questions. The key themes of church unity, wisdom vs. foolishness, spiritual gifts are evident in this passage.