Verse-by-verse analysis and insights from the Authorized King James Version (KJV)
Note: This AI-powered commentary is generated based on historical, theological, and scholarly sources. It's designed to assist your study but should not replace personal reflection and traditional commentaries.
Chapter Overview
1 Corinthians 13 is a hymn to love chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, faith, righteousness.
Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion.
When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians
and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
Analysis - Verse 1
This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.
The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.
Study Questions - Verse 1
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
Analysis - Verse 2
Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 2
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on faith address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Analysis - Verse 3
This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.
This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.
Study Questions - Verse 3
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Analysis - Verse 4
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up. Paul begins his poetic description of love with two positive qualities followed by four negative ones. The Greek word agape (αΌΞ³Ξ¬ΟΞ·), translated "charity" in the KJV, represents divine love characterized by self-sacrificial commitment rather than emotional feeling or romantic attraction.
"Suffereth long" (makrothymei, ΞΌΞ±ΞΊΟΞΏΞΈΟ ΞΌΞ΅αΏ) literally means "long-tempered" or "slow to anger," describing patience with people rather than circumstances. This patience isn't passive endurance but active forbearance that continues loving despite provocation. "Is kind" (chresteuetai, ΟΟΞ·ΟΟΞ΅ΟΞ΅ΟΞ±ΞΉ) appears only here in the New Testament, emphasizing active benevolence that seeks others' welfare.
The four negatives reveal what love never does: it doesn't envy (ou zeloi), doesn't boast (ou perpereuetai), doesn't act arrogantly (ou physioutai), and doesn't behave inappropriately. These contrasts address specific problems Paul observed in Corinth: jealousy over spiritual gifts, boasting about wisdom or status, and prideful behavior that disrupted fellowship.
The Corinthian church was deeply divided by issues of status, spiritual gifts, and personal preferences. Wealthy members looked down on poorer believers, different factions claimed superiority based on their favorite teachers (Paul, Apollos, Cephas), and some boasted about having more impressive spiritual gifts like tongues or prophecy.
First-century Corinth was a cosmopolitan commercial center where social status, rhetorical skill, and impressive displays of wisdom or power determined social standing. The Roman patronage system created obvious hierarchies, and Greek philosophical schools competed for intellectual supremacy. Into this context, Paul introduces a radically different value system based on self-sacrificial love rather than self-promotion.
Paul's description of love directly challenges Corinthian culture: instead of self-assertion, love seeks others' good; instead of competing for honor, love rejoices in others' success; instead of demanding rights, love willingly suffers inconvenience for others' benefit.
Study Questions - Verse 4
How does Paul's definition of love challenge modern cultural understandings of love as primarily emotional or romantic?
Which of these characteristics of love do you find most challenging to practice consistently, and why?
How might the church today address conflicts and divisions by applying these principles of love?
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Analysis - Verse 5
The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.
This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.
Study Questions - Verse 5
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Analysis - Verse 6
This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of truth reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes truth in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 6
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on truth address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding truth in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Analysis - Verse 7
The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing hope contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes hope in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 7
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of hope differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
Analysis - Verse 8
The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 8
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.
The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.
Study Questions - Verse 9
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
Analysis - Verse 10
The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 10
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
Analysis - Verse 11
Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.
The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.
Study Questions - Verse 11
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
For 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.
Analysis - Verse 12
Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.
Study Questions - Verse 12
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
Analysis - Verse 13
This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of faith reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.
This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.
Study Questions - Verse 13
How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on faith address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
Note: This AI-powered commentary is generated based on historical, theological, and scholarly sources. It's designed to assist your study but should not replace personal reflection and traditional commentaries.
Chapter Overview
1 Corinthians 13 is a hymn to love chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, faith, righteousness. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Analysis - Verse 1
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 1
Study Questions - Verse 1
Analysis - Verse 2
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 2
Study Questions - Verse 2
Analysis - Verse 3
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 3
Study Questions - Verse 3
Analysis - Verse 4
"Suffereth long" (makrothymei, ΞΌΞ±ΞΊΟΞΏΞΈΟ ΞΌΞ΅αΏ) literally means "long-tempered" or "slow to anger," describing patience with people rather than circumstances. This patience isn't passive endurance but active forbearance that continues loving despite provocation. "Is kind" (chresteuetai, ΟΟΞ·ΟΟΞ΅ΟΞ΅ΟΞ±ΞΉ) appears only here in the New Testament, emphasizing active benevolence that seeks others' welfare.
The four negatives reveal what love never does: it doesn't envy (ou zeloi), doesn't boast (ou perpereuetai), doesn't act arrogantly (ou physioutai), and doesn't behave inappropriately. These contrasts address specific problems Paul observed in Corinth: jealousy over spiritual gifts, boasting about wisdom or status, and prideful behavior that disrupted fellowship.
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 4
First-century Corinth was a cosmopolitan commercial center where social status, rhetorical skill, and impressive displays of wisdom or power determined social standing. The Roman patronage system created obvious hierarchies, and Greek philosophical schools competed for intellectual supremacy. Into this context, Paul introduces a radically different value system based on self-sacrificial love rather than self-promotion.
Paul's description of love directly challenges Corinthian culture: instead of self-assertion, love seeks others' good; instead of competing for honor, love rejoices in others' success; instead of demanding rights, love willingly suffers inconvenience for others' benefit.
Study Questions - Verse 4
Analysis - Verse 5
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 5
Study Questions - Verse 5
Analysis - Verse 6
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 6
Study Questions - Verse 6
Analysis - Verse 7
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 7
Study Questions - Verse 7
Analysis - Verse 8
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 8
Study Questions - Verse 8
Analysis - Verse 9
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 9
Study Questions - Verse 9
Analysis - Verse 10
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 10
Study Questions - Verse 10
Analysis - Verse 11
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 11
Study Questions - Verse 11
Analysis - Verse 12
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 12
Study Questions - Verse 12
Analysis - Verse 13
Cross References
Historical Context - Verse 13
Study Questions - Verse 13