1 Corinthians 14:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 14:38
38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 14 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, fellowship, grace. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 14:38
38 But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
Analysis
But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant—Greek ei de tis agnoei, agnoeitō (εἰ δέ τις ἀγνοεῖ, ἀγνοείτω). The present imperatives suggest willful ignorance: "if anyone is ignoring [this], let him continue to be ignored." Some manuscripts read agnoeitai (passive, "let him be ignored")—divine or communal ignoring of those who reject apostolic authority.
Paul's sobering warning: those who refuse to acknowledge his teaching as the Lord's command (v. 37) reveal their spiritual ignorance and will be ignored—by God or the church. This isn't harsh; it's realistic: if you reject revelation, you remain in ignorance. The terse command closes debate: Paul has argued his case (vv. 1-36), appealed to universal practice (v. 33), asserted apostolic authority (v. 37). Those still rejecting his teaching are unteachable.
Historical Context
Paul knows some will refuse correction despite his thorough argument. He leaves them to their chosen ignorance, a form of church discipline. The church should recognize and avoid those who persist in disorder.
Reflection
- What's the difference between honest confusion and willful ignorance?
- Why does Paul not argue further but simply pronounce judgment on the willfully ignorant?
- How should the church respond to those who persistently reject apostolic teaching?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Hosea 4:17, Matthew 7:6, 15:14