Keraia
1 Corinthians 1

1 Corinthians 1:19

The Message of the Cross · 1 Corinthians 1:18–25
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Translations

Modern
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
Traditional
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
Literal
For it has been written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will set aside.”
Latin
Scriptum est enim: Perdam sapientiam sapientium, et prudentiam prudentium reprobabo.

Original

Greek
English
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

Notes

1 Corinthians 1:19

This quote from Isaiah 29:14 shows how God views human wisdom.

1 Corinthians 1:18–31

Paul contrasts eloquence and human wisdom, which some Corinthians valued, with the seemingly foolish message of the cross, which expresses God's wisdom. The followers of Apollos, in particular (see 1 Corinthians 1:12), were likely drawn to his speaking skills and intellectual approach to ministry (see Acts 18:24–28). In contrast, Paul emphasizes that the true power is in the simple message of the cross of Christ.

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Crucifixion First Letter to the Corinthians Gospel Letter to the Ephesians Mystery Peter, Second Letter of Second Letter to the Corinthians Second Letter to the Thessalonians Wisdom

Topics

Boasting: Spiritual Philosophy: Employment of, Was not Paul's Method of Preaching the Gospel Prudence of the Wicked: Defeated by God Reasoning: The Gospel Cannot be Explained By Wisdom: Worldly