1 Corinthians 4:18

Modern

Some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you.

Traditional

Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.

Literal

Now some were puffed up, as if I were not coming to you.

Latin

Tamquam non venturus sim ad vos, sic inflati sunt quidam.

Greek

English

Some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you.

Some might have thought Paul was afraid to visit because he sent Timothy. However, Paul was very busy with his work in Ephesus at that time (Acts 19:8–20; see study note on Acts 19:10). He planned to visit soon (see 1 Corinthians 16:5–9; Acts 19:21–22; 20:1–3; compare 2 Corinthians 1:15–2:4) and would face those who opposed him. He would show they were just talkers. His actions and words would prove God's power (see also 1 Corinthians 2:4).

Paul ends this part about divisions in the church with kind, fatherly advice and a warning (1 Corinthians 1:10–4:21).

Paul criticizes the Corinthian Christians for their arrogance (1 Corinthians 4:6–13) and then advises them like a father (4:14–21).

Theme notes and profiles

1 Corinthians 4:6–8
Brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us not to go beyond what is written. Then you will not take pride in one man over another.
1 Corinthians 5:2
And you are proud! Shouldn’t you rather have been stricken with grief and have removed from your fellowship the man who did this?
1 Corinthians 4:21
Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?