1 Corinthians 6:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 6:3
3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 6 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, worship, redemption. 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
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 6:3
3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?
Analysis
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? This stunning claim escalates Paul's argument. Angelous (ἀγγέλους) likely refers to fallen angels (2 Peter 2:4, Jude 6)—the church will participate in their final judgment. How much more things that pertain to this life? (biōtika, βιωτικά, 'everyday matters') uses climactic rhetoric: if believers judge supernatural beings, surely mundane property disputes are manageable!
Paul's repeated Know ye not (ouk oidate, οὐκ οἴδατε) stings—what the Corinthians don't know exposes their spiritual immaturity despite claims of superior knowledge (8:1-2). They're like children given a kingdom but fighting over toys. The world-to-come already determines the present: act now according to who you will be then.
Historical Context
Jewish texts like 1 Enoch describe the righteous judging fallen watchers. Early Christians understood salvation as coronation—believers become co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), sharing His throne (Revelation 3:21). The Corinthians knew this theology but lived as if Roman courts had more authority than the body of Christ. Paul shocks them with the implications of their own eschatology.
Reflection
- What 'everyday matters' (financial, relational, property) dominate your attention while you neglect your calling as a future judge in God's kingdom?
- How does the reality of judging angels reframe petty conflicts with fellow believers?
- Why do Christians often trust secular authorities more than the Spirit-filled wisdom of their own community?
Word Studies
- Angel: ἄγγελος (Angelos) G32 - Angel, messenger
Cross-References
- Judgment: 1 Corinthians 6:4, Jude 1:6
- Parallel theme: Matthew 25:41, Luke 8:14, 21:34, 2 Timothy 2:4, 4:10