1 Corinthians 1:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 1:31
31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 1 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, truth, 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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 1:31
31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Analysis
That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord (hina, kathōs gegraptai, Ho kauchōmenos en kyriō kauchasthō, ἵνα, καθὼς γέγραπται, Ὁ καυχώμενος ἐν κυρίῳ καυχάσθω)—Paul concludes with a quotation from Jeremiah 9:23-24 (paraphrased): God alone deserves glory. He that glorieth (ho kauchōmenos, ὁ καυχώμενος, present middle participle: "the one boasting") must boast in the Lord (en kyriō, ἐν κυρίῳ)—not in human wisdom, status, or leaders. All legitimate joy, confidence, and celebration must center on God's character and work, not human achievement.
This is the antidote to Corinthian factionalism: if all boasting is in the Lord, there is no room for "I am of Paul" or "I am of Apollos." Paul has systematically demolished every ground for human pride—the means of salvation (cross), the message (foolishness), the method (preaching), the recipients (weak and despised)—so that only God receives glory. This verse encapsulates the entire chapter and will echo throughout the letter (3:21, 4:7).
Historical Context
Jeremiah's context was similar: Judah boasted in wisdom, might, and riches (human achievements) rather than knowing YHWH. God condemned this misplaced confidence. Paul applies the same principle to the Corinthian church: boast in the Lord alone. This was radically countercultural in a society that celebrated self-promotion, honor-seeking, and competitive rhetoric.
Reflection
- What does it mean practically to "glory in the Lord" rather than in yourself or others?
- How does boasting in the Lord eliminate factionalism, envy, and competition in the church?
- In what areas of life are you tempted to boast in human achievements rather than God's grace?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Glory: 1 Chronicles 16:10, 16:35, Psalms 105:3, Isaiah 41:16, 45:25, Jeremiah 4:2
- Parallel theme: Philippians 3:3