1CO front intro e8ey 0 # Introduction to 1 Corinthians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 1 Corinthians<br><br>1. Opening (1:1–9)<br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br>3. Against sexual immorality (4:16–6:20)<br>4. On abstinence (7:1–40)<br>5. On food (8:1–11:1)<br>6. On head coverings (11:2–16)<br>7. On the Lord’s Supper (11:17-34)<br>8. On spiritual gifts (12:1–14:40)<br>9. On the resurrection of the dead (15:1–58)<br>10. On the collection and visits (16:1–12)<br>11. Closing: final commands and greetings (16:13–24)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 1 Corinthians?<br><br>Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul started the church that met in Corinth. He was staying in the city of Ephesus when he wrote this letter.<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Corinthians about?<br><br>1 Corinthians is a letter that Paul wrote to the believers who were in the city of Corinth. Paul had heard that there were problems among the believers there. They were arguing with each other. Some of them did not understand some of the Christian teachings. And some of them were behaving badly. In this letter, Paul responded to them and encouraged them to live in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “First Corinthians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s First Letter to the Church in Corinth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What was the city of Corinth like?<br><br>Corinth was a major city located in ancient Greece. Because it was near the Mediterranean Sea, many travelers and traders came to buy and sell goods there. This resulted in the city having people from many different cultures. The city was famous for having people who lived in immoral ways. The people worshipped Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. As part of the ceremonies honoring Aphrodite, her worshipers had sexual intercourse with temple prostitutes.<br><br>### What was the problem with meat sacrificed to idols?<br><br>Many animals were slaughtered and sacrificed to the false gods in Corinth. Priests and worshipers kept some of the meat. Much of the meat was sold in markets. Many Christians disagreed with each other over whether it was right for them to eat this meat, because it had been dedicated to a false god. Paul writes about this problem in 1 Corinthians.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What do “knowledge” and “wisdom” mean in 1 Corinthians?<br><br>### How are the ideas of “holy” and “sanctify” represented in 1 Corinthians in the ULT?<br><br>The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, 1 Corinthians ULT uses the following principles:<br><br>* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless, faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones,” or “holy people.” (See: 1:2; 3:17)<br>* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In these cases, the ULT uses “believer” or “believers.” (See: 6:1, 2; 14:33; 16:1, 15)<br>* Sometimes the meaning in the passage implies the idea of someone or something set apart f
1CO 1 intro ud5y 0 # 1 Corinthians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>1. Opening (1:1–9)<br> * Greetings and Blessing (1:1–3)<br> * Praise and Prayer (1:4–9)<br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Divisions, Leaders, and Baptism (1:10–17)<br> * Wisdom, Foolishness, and Boasting (1:18–31)<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verse 19, which are from the Old Testament.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Disunity<br><br>In this chapter, Paul urges the Corinthians to stop dividing up into smaller groups that identify themselves with one specific leader. He mentions some of the leaders, including himself, in [1:12](../01/12.md). The Corinthians probably chose these leaders themselves, since there is no evidence that any of the people mentioned in [1:12](../01/12.md) were trying to create their own groups. People in the Corinthian church were probably trying to sound wiser or more powerful than other people, so they would choose a group and a leader and say they were better than others. Paul argues against these kinds of divisions first, and then he argues against anyone who tries to sound wiser and more powerful than others. <br><br>### Wisdom and foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks of both wisdom and foolishness. These words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. If someone creates plans and ideas that work out well, that person is wise. If someone creates plans and ideas that do not work out well, that person is foolish. The wise person makes good choices, and the foolish person makes bad choices. Use words in your language that indicate these ideas. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>### Power and weakness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks of both power and weakness. These words primarily refer to how much influence and authority a person has and to how much they can accomplish. Someone who has “power” has much influence and authority and can accomplish many things. Someone who has “weakness” does not have much influence and authority and is not able to accomplish many things. Use words in your language that indicate these ideas (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/power]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors about Christ <br><br>In this chapter, Paul says that “Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God” ([1:24](../01/24.md)) and that Christ “was made for us wisdom from God, righteousness, and also sanctification and redemption” ([1:30](../01/30.md)). With these two verses, Paul is not saying that Christ is no longer a person and is instead these abstract ideas. Rather, Paul is speaking in this way because Christ and his work for believers include all of these abstract ideas. Christ’s work is powerful and wise, and gives those who believe in him wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. For ways to translate these two statements, see the notes on these two verses. <br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul asks many questions in this chapter. He is not asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with Paul. For ways to translate these questions, look for the notes on each verse that includes these kinds of questions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Positive and negative uses of “wisdom”<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks about wisdom in both positive and negative ways. He uses the same words throughout the chapter, an
1CO 1 1 m3dd figs-exclusive 0 General Information Throughout this letter the words “we,” “us,” “our,” and “ours” include the Corinthian believers unless otherwise noted. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive)
1CO 1 1 lihg figs-yousingular<br> 0 General Information<br> The words “you,” “your,” and “yours” refer to the Corinthians believers and so are plural unless otherwise noted. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular)<br>
1CO 1 1 o7ie figs-123person Παῦλος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you can use the first person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I have been” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person)
1CO 1 1 e8j3 translate-names Παῦλος 1 Paul Here and throughout the letter, this is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 1 qp1n figs-activepassive κλητὸς ἀπόστολος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 Sosthenes our brother If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express **called by Christ Jesus {to be} an apostle** in active form. Alternate translation: “whom Christ Jesus called {to be} an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 1 qvn5 figs-possession διὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **the will** that **God** has. If it would be misunderstood in your language that this phrase refers to what God wills, you could express the idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “because God desired this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 1 xfbo figs-explicit καὶ Σωσθένης 1 This phrase means that Sosthenes is with Paul, and Paul writes the letter for both of them. It does not mean that Sosthenes was the scribe who wrote the letter down. It also does not mean that Sosthenes dictated the letter with Paul, since Paul uses the first person singular more than the first person plural in the letter. If there is a way in your language to indicate that Paul writes in behalf of Sosthenes, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “and I write in behalf of Sosthenes” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
1CO 1 1 n9zv translate-names Σωσθένης 1 This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 2 r9kg figs-123person τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ…τῇ οὔσῃ ἐν Κορίνθῳ 1 to the church of God at Corinth In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would name those to whom they sent the letter, referring to them in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the second person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the recipient of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “This letter is for you who are members of the church of God at Corinth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 2 e75p figs-activepassive ἡγιασμένοις 1 those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **having been sanctified** in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God having sanctified you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 2 lp42 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) the means by which God has sanctified the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ Jesus” (2) the reason why God has sanctified the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 2 e8jw figs-activepassive κλητοῖς ἁγίοις 1 who are called to be saints If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **called {to be} saints** in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “whom God has called {to be} saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 2 nz5s figs-hyperbole ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ 1 Here, Paul describes all believers as if they were **in every place**. He speaks this way to emphasize that believers can be found in many countries, towns, and villages. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could indicate that believers are found in many places around the world. Alternate translation: “in many places” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 2 l21m figs-idiom ἐπικαλουμένοις τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 those who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ “Calling on the name of” someone is an idiom that refers to worshiping and praying to that person. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who pray to and venerate our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 2 l9rq figs-ellipsis αὐτῶν καὶ ἡμῶν 1 their Lord and ours In the phrase, Paul has left out words that may be needed in some languages to make a complete thought. If you cannot leave out these words in your language, you could supply words such as “who is” and “Lord” to make a complete thought. Alternate translation: “who is Lord over them and us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 3 gc2c translate-blessing<br> χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 General Information: After stating his name and the name of the person to whom he is writing, Paul adds a blessing for the Corinthians. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness and peace within you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah” or “I pray that grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah will always be with you” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing)
1CO 1 4 zd7l figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 Here, **always** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express how often he prays for the Corinthians. If **always** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that indicates frequency. Alternate translation: “consistently” or “frequently” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)
1CO 1 4 qoag figs-distinguish τῷ Θεῷ μου 1 When Paul speaks of **my God**, he does not mean that this is a different **God** than the one the Corinthians believe in. Rather, he simply wishes to state that this is **God** is his God. If **my God** in your translation sounds like it makes a distinction between Paul’s God and the Corinthians’ God, you could translate with a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: “to our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1CO 1 4 t16d figs-activepassive τῇ δοθείσῃ<br> 1 because of the grace of God that was given to you in Christ Jesus If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **that was given** in active form with “God” or “he” as the subject. Alternate translation: “that he gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 4 jjtn figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains (1) the means by which God has given grace to the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ Jesus” (2) the reason why God has given grace to the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 5 nl9z grammar-connect-words-phrases ὅτι 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of “the grace of God that was given” in [1:4](../01/04.md). Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “That is,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 5 js7f figs-metaphor ἐπλουτίσθητε 1 you have been made rich in him Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians had received a lot of money **in him**. With this language of being **rich**, Paul means that the Corinthians have received more than they need, and [1:7](../01/07.md) shows that what they have received are spiritual blessings and gifts. If being **made rich** would be misunderstood by your readers, you could: (1) express this idea with a phrase that refers to how much God has given them. Alternate translation: “you were given many gifts” (2) clarify that Paul speaks of spiritual riches. Alternate translation: “you were made spiritually rich” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 5 kaie figs-activepassive ἐπλουτίσθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **you were made rich** in active form, with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has made you rich” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 5 n9wn writing-pronouns ἐν αὐτῷ 1 The word translated **him** refers to Jesus, since God the Father is the one who makes the Corinthians rich. If **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the words “Christ” or “Christ Jesus” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 5 j48t figs-abstractnouns παντὶ λόγῳ 1 in all speech If you cannot use this form in your language, you can express the idea behind the abstract noun **word** with a verb. Alternate translation: “everything you speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 5 qy8c figs-abstractnouns πάσῃ γνώσει 1 all knowledge If you cannot use this form in your language, you can express the idea behind the abstract noun **knowledge** with a verb. Alternate translation: “everything you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 6 ef38 grammar-connect-words-phrases καθὼς 1 The word translated **just as** could introduce: (1) the reason why the Corinthians were made rich. Alternate translation: “which is due to how” (2) a comparison that illustrates how the Corinthians were made rich. Alternate translation: “in the same way that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 6 ub5r figs-exmetaphor τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐβεβαιώθη 1 In this verse, Paul speaks as if what he told the Corinthians about Christ was testimony he gave as a witness in a court of law. This testimony has been **confirmed**, just as if other evidence proved to the judge that his **testimony** was accurate. With this metaphor, he reminds the Corinthians that they have believed the message about Christ and that it is now an important part of their lives. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “our message about Christ has been firmly founded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 1 6 h9zk figs-possession τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the testimony about Christ has been confirmed as true among you Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak about a **testimony** that concerns **Christ**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit that **Christ** is the content of the **testimony**. Alternate translation: “the testimony about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 6 tfo3 figs-activepassive τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐβεβαιώθη 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has confirmed the testimony of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 7 t2hd grammar-connect-words-phrases ὥστε 1 Therefore The word translated **so that** could introduce: (1) a result from “being made rich” in [1:5](../01/05.md) and from the confirmation of the “testimony” in [1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “God has made you rich and confirmed our testimony so that” (2) a result from just the confirmation in [1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “God confirmed our testimony among you so that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 7 p5y6 figs-litotes ὑμᾶς μὴ ὑστερεῖσθαι ἐν μηδενὶ χαρίσματι 1 you lack no spiritual gift Here, Paul uses two negative words, **not** and **lack**, to express a strong positive meaning. He means that the Corinthians have every spiritual gift that God gives. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea in positive form. Alternate translation: “you have every gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 1 7 ymph grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ἀπεκδεχομένους 1 The word translated **eagerly waiting for** introduces something that happens at the same time as not lacking **in any gift**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “while you eagerly wait for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 1 7 fe4q figs-possession τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **revelation** whose content is **our Lord Jesus Christ**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit by translating the phrase with a verb with “God” or **our Lord Jesus Christ** as the subject. Alternate translation: “God to reveal our Lord Jesus Christ” or “our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 7 o145 figs-explicit τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 In this context, it is clear that Paul does not simply mean that knowledge about **our Lord Jesus Christ** will be revealed. Rather, he means that **our Lord Jesus Christ** himself will return to earth. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “return” to make this idea clear. Alternate translation: “the return of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 1 8 cqpk writing-pronouns ὃς 1 This pronoun could refer to: (1) God, who is the implied subject of all the verbs in this section. Alternate translation: “It is God who” (2) Jesus, which is the closest name. Alternate translation: “It is Jesus who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 8 usci translate-unknown καὶ βεβαιώσει ὑμᾶς 1 The word translated **confirm** is the same word that Paul used in [1:6](../01/06.md), also translated “confirmed.” Paul uses the word **also** to remind the reader that he has already used **confirmed**. If possible, translate **confirmed** as you did in [1:6](../01/06.md). Just as there, here it refers to something or someone that is proved to be true or accurate. In this case, it means that God will make the Corinthians’ faith true **to the end**. Alternate translation: “will also firmly found your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 8 qtpq figs-idiom ἕως τέλους 1 The phrase translated **to the end** means that some activity or state will continue until a definable point in the future. Here, it means that God will **confirm** the Corinthians until their earthly lives end. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “until your race is run” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 8 pif5 grammar-connect-logic-result ἀνεγκλήτους 1 you will be blameless The word translated **blameless** gives the result of God confirming them to the end. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this connection explicit. Alternate translation: “so that you will be blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 9 hp30 figs-activepassive δι’ οὗ ἐκλήθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “who called you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 9 u2z0 figs-possession<br> εἰς κοινωνίαν τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **fellowship** that is with **his Son**. If this form would be misunderstood in you language, you could (1) use a word such as “with” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “into fellowship with his Son” (2) translate **fellowship** with a verb such as “share in” or “commune with.” Alternate translation: “to commune with his Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 9 kx3z guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 his Son **Son** is an important title for Jesus and describes his relationship with God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1CO 1 10 huz1 grammar-connect-words-phrases παρακαλῶ δὲ 1 The word translated **now** indicates the beginning of a new section. Paul transitions from giving thanks to appealing to the Corinthians to avoid divisions. You could: (1) leave this word untranslated, and show the shift in topic by starting a new paragraph. Alternate translation: “I urge” (2) use a word or phrase that indicates the beginning of a new section. Alternate translation: “Next, I urge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 10 u1u1 figs-infostructure παρακαλῶ δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί, διὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, 1 In this sentence, **I urge you** is far away from what Paul is urging. If it would be clearer in your language, you could move **I urge you** so that it comes right before **that you all speak**. Alternate translation: “Now brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I urge you” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
1CO 1 10 k7gw figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 10 sw54 figs-metonymy διὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ Here, Paul uses the **name** of Jesus to refer to the authority of Jesus. With this language, he reminds the Corinthians that he is an apostle with authority from Jesus. If the meaning of **name** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “on behalf of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 10 u4y2 figs-idiom τὸ αὐτὸ λέγητε πάντες 1 that you all agree In this language, to **speak the same thing** is an idiom that means that everyone is in agreement, not only in what they speak but also in what they believe and set as goals. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you all see eye to eye” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 10 j75c translate-unknown σχίσματα 1 that there be no divisions among you The word translated **divisions** refers to when one group splits into multiple different groups because they have different leaders, beliefs, or opinions. If this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable noun or a short phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “opposing parties” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 10 tjkg translate-unknown κατηρτισμένοι 1 The word translated **joined together** refers to putting something into its proper position or state, often returning it to that state. Here, then, it refers to restoring the community to the unity it had and is supposed to have. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “restored to your previous unity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 10 emt2 figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῷ αὐτῷ νοῒ καὶ ἐν τῇ αὐτῇ γνώμῃ 1 be joined together with the same mind and by the same purpose If you cannot this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **mind** and **purpose** with verbs such as “think” and “decide” or “choose.” Alternate translation: “by thinking the same things and by choosing the same things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 11 dtsp grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces the reason why Paul is urging them to become united together. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase to express the idea. Alternate translation: “I speak this way because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 11 tayn figs-activepassive ἐδηλώθη…μοι περὶ ὑμῶν, ἀδελφοί μου, ὑπὸ τῶν Χλόης 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could write this sentence in active form. Alternate translation: “those of Chloe have made it clear to me concerning you, my brothers,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 11 ur84 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί μου 1 Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to both men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “my brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 11 e8jb figs-explicit τῶν Χλόης 1 Chloe’s people **those of Chloe** refers to people who are connected to Chloe and probably live in her house or work for her. Paul does not tell us whether they are family members, slaves, or employees. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that these people are related to or dependent on Chloe. Alternate translation: “people connected to Chloe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 1 11 fd71 translate-names Χλόης 1 This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 11 vbe6 translate-unknown ἔριδες ἐν ὑμῖν εἰσιν 1 there are factions among you The word translated **factions** refers to quarrels or strife within a community. These quarrels or fights are not physical but verbal. If possible, use a word that refers to verbal conflict or express the idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you have verbal fights with each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 12 umbx grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Paul uses the word translated **Now** to introduce a further explanation of what he started talking about in [1:11](../01/11.md). If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave the word untranslated or use a word that introduces an explanation. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 12 tsn6 figs-idiom λέγω…τοῦτο 1 Here, Paul uses the phrase **I say this** to explain what he meant in the previous verse when he mentioned “factions” ([1:11](../01/11.md)). If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom for explaining what has already been said or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “what I mean is this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 12 a4lo figs-explicitinfo τοῦτο, ὅτι 1 Having both **this** and **that** in this sentence may be redundant in your language. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a simpler way to introduce what Paul wants to “say.” Alternate translation: “that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 1 12 wf0n figs-hyperbole ἕκαστος ὑμῶν λέγει 1 Here, Paul uses **each of them** to emphasize that many individuals within the Corinthian congregation are saying these kinds of things. He does not mean that each person says all four of these things. He also does not mean that every single person in the church is making these kinds of claims. Finally, he does not mean that these are the only four claims that they are making. If the form that Paul uses would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that singles out many individuals within a group, and you could add a phrase that indicates that these are examples of what they are saying. Alternate translation: “people in your group say are saying things like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 12 vpym translate-names Παύλου…Ἀπολλῶ…Κηφᾶ 1 These are the names of three men. Cephas is another name for Peter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 12 bfd0 figs-quotations ἐγὼ μέν εἰμι Παύλου, ἐγὼ δὲ Ἀπολλῶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Κηφᾶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Χριστοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that you are of Paul, or you are of Apollos, or you are of Cephas, or you are of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 1 12 a57r figs-possession ἐγὼ μέν εἰμι Παύλου, ἐγὼ δὲ Ἀπολλῶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Κηφᾶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Χριστοῦ 1 Each one of you says Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that these people claim to be part of a specific leader’s group. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “belong” or “follow.” Alternate translation: “‘I follow Paul,’ or ‘I follow Apollos,’ or ‘I follow Cephas,’ or ‘I follow Christ.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 13 iam2 figs-123person μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν, ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε 1 In this verse, Paul speaks of himself in the third person. This could sound like he is speaking about a different **Paul** than himself. If this use of **Paul** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is naming himself. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, was not crucified for you, was I? Or were you baptized in my name, that of Paul?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 13 wf6r figs-rquestion μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός? 1 Is Christ divided? Paul asks if **Christ** has **been divided**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their behavior is. If the meaning of this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “Christ has certainly not been divided!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 w175 figs-activepassive μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός? 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “Have they divided Christ?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 aw2r figs-metaphor μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **Christ** could be **divided** into pieces and given to different groups. He speaks this way because he identifies the church with the body of Christ. If the church is divided into groups, then the body of Christ has been divided up as well. However, it is absurd to think that Christ’s body has been cut up into pieces, so it is also absurd to divide the church into pieces. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this connection more explicit. Alternate translation: “Has Christ’s own body been divided, just as your church has been divided?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 13 g5qh figs-rquestion μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 Was Paul crucified for you? Paul asks if **Paul was not crucified**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their thinking is. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “Paul was certainly not crucified for you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 lqsy figs-activepassive μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “They did not crucify Paul for you, did they?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 tb2i figs-rquestion ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε? 1 Were you baptized in the name of Paul? Paul asks if they **were baptized in the name of Paul**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their thinking is. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “You were certainly not baptized in the name of Paul!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 tii7 figs-activepassive ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε? 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Or did they baptize you in the name of Paul?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 zi1y figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου 1 in the name of Paul Here, Paul uses the word **name** to refer to authority. What he means is that, when they were baptized, no one used the **name of Paul**, and therefore they do not belong to his group. Instead, he implicitly asserts that they belong to God, whose name would have been used when they were baptized. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using the word “authority” or by a phrase that includes the language of “belonging.” Alternate translation: “under the authority of Paul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 14 hhh8 grammar-connect-exceptions οὐδένα ὑμῶν ἐβάπτισα εἰ μὴ 1 none of you, except If it would appear in your language that Paul is making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword the sentence to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “I baptized only two of you: Crispus and Gaius” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 1 14 vqq6 translate-names Κρίσπον…Γάϊον 1 Crispus These are the names of two men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 15 hv3m grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 This was so that no one would say that you were baptized into my name The word translated **so that** introduces a purpose or result. In this case, it introduces what results from Paul not baptizing many of the Corinthians. Because he did not baptize almost any of them, they cannot say that they were baptized into his name. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that indicates result, and you could specify that it is the result of Paul not baptizing many of them. Alternate translation: “The result is that” or “Therefore,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 15 dwdv figs-activepassive εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα ἐβαπτίσθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could state this in active form with an indefinite subject or with Paul as the subject. Alternate translation: “someone baptized you into my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 15 u8f6 figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα 1 Here, just as in [1:13](../01/13.md), Paul uses the word **name** to refer to authority. What he means is that, when they were baptized, no one used Paul’s **name**, and therefore they do not belong to his group. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using the word “authority” or by a phrase that includes the language of “belonging.” Alternate translation: “under the my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 16 mq74 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** interrupts the argument and reintroduces the theme of [1:14](../01/14.md), which is about whom Paul baptized. If this transition would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using punctuation that indicates a brief aside or parenthesis, or you could use a phrase that introduces when someone remembers something. Alternate translation: “Speaking of baptizing, I remember that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 16 ed59 translate-names Στεφανᾶ 1 the household of Stephanas This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 16 nlzn translate-unknown οὐκ οἶδα εἴ τινα ἄλλον ἐβάπτισα 1 This statement could be more or less confident about how many people Paul baptized. It could be: (1) relatively confident that Paul has thought of everyone he baptized. Alternate translation: “I think that this is everyone that I baptized” (2) less confident that Paul has thought of everyone he baptized. Alternate translation: “I do not remember if I baptized any others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 16 qbjf figs-hypo εἴ 1 Paul here uses the condition introduced by **if** because he wishes to acknowledge that he thinks he has mentioned everyone that he baptized, but he is not sure. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that expresses uncertainty. Alternate translation: “whether” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 1 17 jkfj grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation for why Paul has baptized so few people. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces an explanation, and you could clarify that it explains how little he baptizes. Alternate translation: “I only baptized a few people because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 17 ga5k figs-infostructure οὐ…ἀπέστειλέν με Χριστὸς βαπτίζειν, ἀλλὰ εὐαγγελίζεσθαι 1 If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them and introduce **not with wise speech** by repeating **proclaim**. Alternate translation: “Christ sent me to proclaim the gospel, not to baptize. I proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 17 tg7i figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ εὐαγγελίζεσθαι 1 Christ did not send me to baptize In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat the “sending” language. Alternate translation: “but he sent me to proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 17 p3cf figs-ellipsis οὐκ ἐν σοφίᾳ λόγου 1 In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat the “proclaiming” language. Alternate translation: “I do not proclaim it with wise speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 17 u60s grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The word translated **so that** introduces the purpose for which Paul does not use “wise speech.” Here, you could use a word or phrase that normally indicates purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 17 zn1n figs-metaphor μὴ κενωθῇ ὁ σταυρὸς τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 clever speech … the cross of Christ should not be emptied of its power Here, Paul speaks as if the **cross of Christ** was a container that was full of power that he does not wish to empty of that power. By this, he means that he does not want to take away the power that the cross and the message about it have. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively, including the idea of power. Alternate translation: “the cross of Christ would not lose its power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 17 qdyj figs-activepassive μὴ κενωθῇ ὁ σταυρὸς τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with Paul as the subject. Alternate translation: “I would not empty the cross of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 j7cw grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of the last part of [1:17](../01/17.md). In this verse, then, Paul explains further why he does not use wise speech. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces an explanation, and you could briefly restate what Paul is explaining. Alternate translation: “I speak in this way because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 18 fq4x figs-possession ὁ λόγος…ὁ τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 the message about the cross Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak about a **word** that is about **the cross**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that the **cross** is the content of the **word**. Alternate translation: “the word about the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 18 utr3 figs-metonymy τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 Here, the word **cross** stands for the event in which Jesus died on the cross. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could include Jesus’ death in your translation. Alternate translation: “of Jesus’s death on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 18 p4wb figs-abstractnouns μωρία ἐστίν 1 is foolishness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **foolishness** by translating it as an adjective such as “foolish.”Alternate translation: “seems foolish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 18 lq5z figs-activepassive τοῖς…ἀπολλυμένοις 1 to those who are dying If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this in active form, with: (1) themselves as the subject. Alternate translation: “to those who will experience destruction” (2) God as the subject. Alternate translation: “to those whom God will destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 ao4m figs-activepassive τοῖς δὲ σῳζομένοις ἡμῖν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this clause in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “but to us whom God is saving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 m66w figs-distinguish τοῖς δὲ σῳζομένοις ἡμῖν 1 The description **who are being saved** distinguishes **us** from anyone else. It is not just adding information. Use a form in your language that shows that this is a distinguishing phrase. Alternate translation: “but to us, that is, the ones who are being saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1CO 1 18 ji74 figs-possession δύναμις Θεοῦ ἐστιν 1 it is the power of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **power** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **power**. Alternate translation: “power from God” or “God working in power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 19 fdhk grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces Paul’s evidence that what he said in [1:18](../01/18.md) is true. You could use a word that introduces evidence for a claim or leave the word untranslated. Alternate translation: “As” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 19 wx5x figs-activepassive γέγραπται 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this in active form, with: (1) the scripture or scripture author as the subject. Alternate translation: “Isaiah has written” (2) God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 19 tc6n figs-quotations ἀπολῶ τὴν σοφίαν τῶν σοφῶν, καὶ τὴν σύνεσιν τῶν συνετῶν ἀθετήσω 1 I will frustrate the understanding of the intelligent If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate this direct quote as an indirect quote, specifying that God is the subject and including an introductory word such as “that.” Alternate translation: “that God will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and he will frustrate the understanding of the intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 1 19 kzb0 figs-possession τὴν σοφίαν τῶν σοφῶν…τὴν σύνεσιν τῶν συνετῶν 1 In both of these clauses, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** or **understanding** that belongs to **the wise** or **the intelligent**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could indicate that **wisdom** and **understanding** belong to **the wise** or **the intelligent**. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that the wise have … the understanding that the intelligent have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 19 gft6 figs-nominaladj τῶν σοφῶν…τῶν συνετῶν 1 Paul is using the adjectives **wise** and **intelligent** as nouns in order to describe groups of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “of the people who are wise … of the people who are intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 1 19 pa5n translate-unknown τῶν συνετῶν 1 The word translated **intelligent** describes someone who is good at figuring problems out, understanding new ideas, and making smart decisions. Use a word in your language that gets this general idea across. Alternate translation: “of the smart” or “of the clever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 20 m6tf figs-rquestion ποῦ σοφός? ποῦ γραμματεύς? ποῦ συνζητητὴς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου? 1 Where is the wise person? Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this world? With these questions, Paul is not actually asking about the location of certain people. Rather, he is suggesting to the Corinthians that these kinds of people cannot be found. If these questions would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with statements that: (1) assert that these people do not actually have real wisdom, knowledge, or skill. Alternate translation: “The wise person does not really have wisdom. The scholar does not really know much. The debater of this age is not really good at arguing” (2) assert that these people do not exist. Alternate translation: “There is no wise person. There is no scholar. There is no debater of this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 20 h0qa figs-genericnoun σοφός…γραμματεύς…συνζητητὴς 1 Paul uses these singular nouns to identify types of people, but he does not mean just one **wise person**, **scholar**, or **debater**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that identifies a type of person, or you could translate these nouns in plural form. Alternate translation: “the kind of person who has wisdom … the kind of person who is a scholar … the kind of person who is a debater” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 1 20 mzxx figs-possession συνζητητὴς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **debater** who is part of **this age**. In fact, Paul may mean that the **wise person** and the **scholar** also belong to **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the debater, who belongs in this age” or “the debater? All these kinds of people belong to this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 20 u5j5 translate-unknown συνζητητὴς 1 the debater The word translated **debater** refers to someone who spends much of their time arguing about beliefs, values, or actions. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase or a term that expresses this idea better. Alternate translation: “the disputant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 20 a7zl figs-rquestion οὐχὶ ἐμώρανεν ὁ Θεὸς τὴν σοφίαν τοῦ κόσμου? 1 Has not God turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement. Alternate translation: “ God has turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 20 y5wx figs-possession τὴν σοφίαν τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that seems wise according to the standard of this **world**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that this world values” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 cihg grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of how God has turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness ([1:20](../01/20.md)). You could use a word that introduces an explanation in your language or a short phrase that identifies that this verse explains the previous verse. Alternate translation: “That is,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 21 eauj grammar-connect-logic-result ἐπειδὴ…οὐκ ἔγνω ὁ κόσμος διὰ τῆς σοφίας τὸν Θεόν, εὐδόκησεν ὁ Θεὸς 1 The word translated **since** introduces the reason for the second half of the verse, beginning with **God was pleased**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this more explicit or break the two pieces into two sentences and use a transition word that indicates result. Alternate translation: “because … the world did not know God through wisdom, therefore God was pleased”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 21 tnez figs-possession ἐν τῇ σοφίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **wisdom** that **God** uses when he makes decisions or acts. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by adding “plans” or “thinking” and translating **wisdom** with an adjective such as “wise.”Alternate translation: “in God’s wise plan” or ”in God’s wise thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 odyk figs-synecdoche ὁ κόσμος 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **world** to refer to the humans that are part of the **world**. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate **world** with a word or phrase that refers to people who do not believe in Christ, or you could use a phrase like “people of the world.” Alternate translation: “the people of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 21 d7xw figs-possession τῆς μωρίας τοῦ κηρύγματος 1 those who believe Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **preaching** that is characterized by **foolishness**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **foolishness** as an adjective describing **the preaching** or the content of **the preaching**. Alternate translation: “the foolish preaching” or “the foolish message that we preach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 lkk1 figs-irony τῆς μωρίας 1 Paul describes the **preaching** as **foolishness**. He does not actually think his message is foolish. Instead, he speaks from the perspective of **the world** and its **wisdom**, because the message is foolish to **the world**. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that indicates that Paul is using irony or speaking from another person's perspective. Alternate translation: “the so-called foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 1 22 j8nh grammar-connect-words-phrases ἐπειδὴ καὶ 1 The word translated **For** sets up the contrast between this verse and what Paul preaches in the next verse. If your language has a way to begin a contrast, you could use it here. Otherwise, you could leave the word untranslated. Alternate translation: “It is indeed true that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 22 e1sy figs-hyperbole Ἰουδαῖοι…Ἕλληνες 1 By using the words translated **Jews** and **Greeks**, Paul is not saying that every single Jewish and Greek person does these things. Instead, he is generalizing, identifying common patterns among people who are Jewish and Greek. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that not all **Jews** and **Greeks** are meant. Alternate translation: “most Jews … most Greeks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 22 t32r translate-unknown Ἕλληνες 1 The word translated **Greeks** does not refer only to people who are ethnically Greek. However, it also does not refer to everyone who is not a Jew. Rather, it refers to people who speak the Greek language and who value the philosophy and education that are part of Greek culture. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies these people by their interests and values more than by their ethnicity. Alternate translation: “people who value Greek philosophy” or “people who had a Greek education” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 23 q8sj grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, Paul continues the contrast he set up in [1:22](../01/22.md). Jews seek signs, and Greeks seek wisdom, but Paul and those like him proclaim that the Messiah was crucified. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates a strong contrast between behavior or beliefs. Alternate translation: “In contrast with them,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 23 v9fa figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς 1 General Information: Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and others who proclaim the Gospel with him. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 1 23 ntu3 figs-activepassive Χριστὸν ἐσταυρωμένον 1 Christ crucified If you cannot use this form in your language, you could state this in active form, with: (1) **Christ** as the subject. Alternate translation: “that Christ laid down his life on the cross” (2) an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “that they crucified Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 23 krw3 figs-metaphor σκάνδαλον 1 a stumbling block Paul uses the word translated **stumbling block** to indicate that the message about “Christ crucified” causes offense or repulses many Jews. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “a repulsive concept” or “an unacceptable idea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 23 n6u2 figs-hyperbole Ἰουδαίοις…ἔθνεσιν 1 By using the words translated **Jews** and **Gentiles**, Paul is not saying that every single Jewish and Gentile person responds to the Gospel in these ways. Instead, he is generalizing, identifying common patterns among people who are Jewish and Gentile. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that not all **Jews** and **Gentiles** are meant. Alternate translation: “to most Jews … to most Gentiles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 24 xgw1 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **But** to contrast **those who are called** and the “Jews” and “Gentiles” in [1:23](../01/23.md). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that contrasts people and their thinking. Alternate translation: “In contrast with them,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 24 i7l4 figs-infostructure αὐτοῖς…τοῖς κλητοῖς, Ἰουδαίοις τε καὶ Ἕλλησιν, Χριστὸν Θεοῦ δύναμιν, καὶ Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 Paul here puts the people he is talking about first before he makes a statement about them. If this is unnatural in your language, you could: (1) phrase the sentence so that **those who are called** is the subject of the whole sentence. Alternate translation: “those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, know that Christ {is} the power of God and the wisdom of God” (2) move **to those who are called** to the end of the sentence. Alternate translation: “Christ {is} the power of God and the wisdom of God to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 24 h7iw figs-123person αὐτοῖς…τοῖς κλητοῖς 1 to those whom God has called Paul uses the third person to speak about those whom God has called because he is speaking of the group as a category in comparison with Jews who find the Gospel a stumbling block and Gentiles who find the Gospel to be foolish. He does not use the third person because he excludes himself or the Corinthians from this category. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with the first person. Alternate translation: “to those of us who are called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 24 appp figs-activepassive τοῖς κλητοῖς 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could write this in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “whom God has called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 24 pt5x translate-unknown Ἕλλησιν 1 The word translated **Greeks** does not refer only to people who are ethnically Greek. However, it also does not refer to everyone who is not a Jew. Rather, it refers to people who speak the Greek language and who value the philosophy and education that are part of Greek culture. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies these people by their interests and values more than by their ethnicity. Alternate translation: “people who value Greek philosophy” or “people who had a Greek education” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 24 hu1s figs-metonymy Χριστὸν 1 Christ as the power and the wisdom of God Here, the word **Christ** could refer to: (1) the message about the work of Christ. Alternate translation: “the message about Christ” (2) the work of Christ, especially his death. Alternate translation: “Christ’s work” or “Christ’s death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 24 w9vm figs-possession Θεοῦ δύναμιν 1 the power … of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **power** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **power**. Alternate translation: “power from God” or “God acting powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 24 p1hu figs-possession Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 the wisdom of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **wisdom** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **wisdom**. Alternate translation: “wisdom from God” or “God giving wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 fst8 grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 With the word translated **For**, Paul introduces the reason why the seemingly foolish message about Christ is power and wisdom ([1:24](../01/24.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces a reason or a short phrase that connects this verse to the previous verse or verses. Alternate translation: “God works through foolishness because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 25 h9hh figs-irony τὸ μωρὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ…τὸ ἀσθενὲς τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the foolishness of God is wiser than people, and the weakness of God is stronger than people Paul describes God as having **foolishness** and **weakness**. He does not actually think that God is weak and foolish, but he is speaking from the perspective of the world and its wisdom. From the perspective of the world, Paul’s God is indeed foolish and weak. What Paul means to say is that what the world sees as **foolishness** and **weakness** is still **wiser** and **stronger** than anything that humans have to offer. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that indicates that Paul is using irony or speaking from another person's perspective. Alternate translation: “the apparent foolishness of God … the apparent weakness of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 1 25 esc9 figs-gendernotations τῶν ἀνθρώπων -1 The words translated **men** in both places in this verse do not refer just to male people. Rather, Paul means any human of any sex. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use both genders or a gender-neutral word. Alternate translation: “women and men … women and men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 25 jydy figs-possession τὸ μωρὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ…ἐστίν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **foolishness** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase that indicates that **God** does **foolishness**. Alternate translation: “the foolish things that God does are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 uciw figs-ellipsis σοφώτερον τῶν ἀνθρώπων ἐστίν 1 Paul does not say everything that is needed in many languages to make a complete comparison. If the sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could add whatever is needed to make the comparison complete, such “the wisdom.” Alternate translation: “is wiser than the wisdom of men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 25 gnpe figs-possession τὸ ἀσθενὲς τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **weakness** that comes from **God**. If it this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this idea with a phrase that indicates that **God** does **weakness**. Alternate translation: “the weak things that God does {are}” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 i7pl figs-ellipsis ἰσχυρότερον τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 Paul does not say everything that is needed in many languages to make a complete comparison. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could add whatever is needed to make the comparison complete, such “the strength.” Alternate translation: “stronger than the strength of men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 26 je03 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces proof for or examples of what Paul has claimed so far about God choosing to work through foolishness and weakness. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces examples or support. Alternate translation: “For instance,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 26 c8sf translate-unknown τὴν κλῆσιν ὑμῶν 1 Here, the word translated **calling** primarily to who they were at the time of their **calling**. It does not primarily refer to God’s act in **calling** them. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood language, you can emphasize this aspect in your translation. Alternate translation: “who you were at your calling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 26 xq6b figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 Here, the word translated **brothers** does not just refer to men but to people of any sex. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) use a non-gendered word. Alternate translation: “siblings” (2) use words for both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 26 w6l1 figs-litotes οὐ πολλοὶ -1 Not many of you Here, Paul uses a form that can more easily be stated in inverse form in many languages. If: (1) your language would most naturally put **not** with the verb instead of **many**, you could do so here. Alternate translation: “many {were} not … many {were} not … and many {were} not” (2) your language would most naturally use a word that indicates a small number of people here, you could use it without **not**. Alternate translation: “few … few … and few” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 1 26 unig writing-pronouns οὐ πολλοὶ -1 While Paul does not explicitly state that **not many** refers to the Corinthians, he is referring to the Corinthians when he says **not many**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could insert “you.” Alternate translation: “not many of you … not many of you … and not many of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 26 camj figs-infostructure οὐ πολλοὶ σοφοὶ κατὰ σάρκα, οὐ πολλοὶ δυνατοί, οὐ πολλοὶ εὐγενεῖς 1 Paul here uses the phrase **according to the flesh** to clarify what he means by **wise**, **powerful**, and **of noble birth**, not just **wise**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could move **according to the flesh** so that it is clear that it modifies all three of these statements. Alternate translation: “according to the flesh, not many {were} wise, not many {were} powerful, and not many {were} of noble birth (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 26 pws2 figs-idiom κατὰ σάρκα 1 wise according to the flesh Here, Paul uses the phrase **according to the flesh** to refer to human ways of thinking. If the meaning of thsi phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idiom **according to the flesh** with a phrase that refers to human values or perspectives. Alternate translation: “according to human definitions” or “according to what humans value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 27 qjvd grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here, Paul introduces a contrast. hH is contrasting **God chose the foolish things** with what a person might expect about how God would treat foolish and weak people like the Corinthians. He is not contrasting how **God chose the foolish things** with the statements in the previous verse about the foolishness and weakness of the Corinthians. If this contrast would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul writes **But** to contrast with what a person might expect about God. Alternate translation: “Despite what might be expected,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 27 qv5l figs-parallelism τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός, ἵνα καταισχύνῃ…τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός, ἵνα καταισχύνῃ 2 God chose … wise. God chose … strong Here, Paul repeats the exact same words: **God chose … in order that he might shame**. He does this because repeating the same idea with different examples was more convincing than just one example in his culture. If possible, translate these words the same way in both parts of the sentence to preserve the parallelism. If it is necessary, you could remove or change some of the words if it makes the sentence sound more convincing, which is what Paul intended. Alternate translation: “God chose … of the world in order that he might shame … he chose … of the world to shame” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 1 27 r4ly figs-possession τὰ μωρὰ τοῦ κόσμου…τὰ ἀσθενῆ τοῦ κόσμου 1 Paul uses the possessive form twice to clarify that the **foolish things** and **weak things** are only **foolish** and **weak** from the perspective of the **world**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase such as “according to the world.” Alternate translation: “things that are foolish according to the world … things that are weak according to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 27 gdob figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου -1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of people … of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 27 iwho grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα -1 Here, the word translated **in order that** could introduce: (1) the purpose for which **God chose the foolish things of the world** and **the weak things of the world**. Alternate translation: “so that … so that” (2) what happened when **God chose the foolish things of the world** and **the weak things of the world**. Alternate translation: “with the result that … with the result that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 27 vtzx figs-nominaladj τοὺς σοφούς…τὰ ἰσχυρά 1 Paul uses the adjective **wise** to describe a group of people, and he uses the adjective **strong** to describe a group of people and things. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these two adjectives with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “people who are wise … people and things which are strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 1 28 tqxg figs-parallelism τοῦ κόσμου…ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός,…ἵνα 1 In this verse, Paul repeats many of the words from the parallel parts of previous verse. He does this because repeating the same idea with different examples was more convincing than just one example in his culture. If possible, translate these words the same way that you translated them in [1:27](../01/27.md). If it is necessary, you could remove or change some of the words if it makes the sentence sound more convincing, which is what Paul intended. Alternate translation: “he chose … of the world … in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 1 28 k3kd translate-unknown τὰ ἀγενῆ 1 what is low and despised The word translated **base things** is the opposite of the word translated “of noble birth” in [1:26](../01/26.md). Paul uses it to refer to things and people that were not considered important or powerful in his culture. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to people and things that have low status or low importance. Alternate translation: “the marginalized things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 d5pa translate-unknown τὰ ἐξουθενημένα 1 While the word translated **base things** refers to a person's status or a thing's status, the word translated **despised things** refers to how people treat other people or things that have low status. Usually, people badly treat others whom they consider to be of lower status, ignoring them or mocking them. That is what Paul means when he says **despised**. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how people treat others of lower status badly. Alternate translation: “the scorned things” or “the things people treat with contempt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 wir6 figs-possession τὰ ἀγενῆ τοῦ κόσμου καὶ τὰ ἐξουθενημένα 1 Here, Paul uses **of the world** to describe both **the base things** and **the despised things**. As in [1:27](../01/27.md), he uses the possessive form to clarify that **base things and the despised things** are only **base** and **despised** from the perspective of the world. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase such as “according to the world.” Alternate translation: “the base things and the despised things according to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 28 unyl figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου 1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche)
1CO 1 28 gj19 figs-hyperbole τὰ μὴ ὄντα 1 nothing, to bring to nothing things that are held as valuable Here, Paul further describes the **base things** and **the despised things** as if they were **things that are not**. He does not mean that the **base** and **despised things** do not exist. Instead, he is identifying how people often ignore the **base** and **despised things**, just as if they did not exist at all. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the things that people ignore” or “the nobodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 28 f11p grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 things that are held as valuable Here, the word translated **in order that** could introduce: (1) the purpose for which **God chose the base things and the despised things of the world, the things that are not**. Alternate translation: “so that” (2) what happened when **God chose the base things and the despised things of the world, the things that are not**. Alternate translation: “with the result that” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal)
1CO 1 28 f9s5 translate-unknown καταργήσῃ 1 The word translated **he might bring to nothing** refers to making something ineffective, useless, or irrelevant. What Paul means is that God has made **the things that are** unimportant and without function because he instead worked through **the things that are not**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that a person has acted so that something else is no longer important, useful, or effective. Alternate translation: “he might sideline” or “render ineffective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 etjg figs-idiom τὰ ὄντα 1 In this context, **the things that are** does not refer primarily to things that exist. Rather, it refers primarily to things that are important in society and culture. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that refers to important or significant things and people in your culture. Alternate translation: “the things that people care about” or “the somebodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 29 unr6 grammar-connect-logic-goal ὅπως 1 The word translated **so that** introduces a final goal. In [1:28–29](../01/28–29.md), Paul uses “in order that” to introduce immediate goals, but here, **so that** is the overall goal. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a final or overall goal, making sure to distinguish it from the words you used in [1:28–29](../01/28–29.md), if possible. Alternate translation: “so that, in the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 29 q4gh figs-idiom μὴ…πᾶσα σὰρξ 1 Paul uses the word **flesh** to refer to humans. Unlike in other places in his letters, **flesh** does not indicate sinful and weak humanity. Instead, it simply refers to humans compared to their creator, God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that commonly refers to people in general, especially if it includes the idea that people are created by God. Alternate translation: “no creature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 29 fdv5 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul speaks of people not boasting **before God**, as if they were standing in front of **God**. With this way of talking, Paul means that people are acting as if they could see God and God could see them. This means that they recognize that God knows what they say and do. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that someone recognizes that God knows what they are doing and thinking. Alternate translation: “when they know that God sees them” or “while God looks on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 yk4y grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 The word translated **But** introduces a slight contrast between people who might boast and the Corinthians, who are united to Christ. However, **But** primarily means that Paul is moving to the next step in his argument. If **But** would not express this idea in your language, you could use a word that indicates that the author is moving on to the next step, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 30 fmr3 figs-activepassive ἐξ αὐτοῦ…ὑμεῖς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 because of him While **because of him, you are in Christ Jesus** is not written the way most passive sentences are, this construction is like a passive sentence and may be difficult to represent in your language. What **because of him** means is that God is the source of how the Corinthians **are in Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could rephrase these words so that “God” is the subject who makes it so that **you are in Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “he puts you in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 30 alyj writing-pronouns αὐτοῦ 1 The word translated **of him** refers to God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the name “God” here. Alternate translation: “of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 30 a986 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to Christ Jesus, explains how **Christ Jesus** can be **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** for the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 f1at figs-metaphor ὃς ἐγενήθη σοφία ἡμῖν ἀπὸ Θεοῦ, δικαιοσύνη τε, καὶ ἁγιασμὸς, καὶ ἀπολύτρωσις; 1 Christ Jesus, who was made for us wisdom from God Here, Paul uses language and structure that is very similar to what he used in [1:24](../01/24.md). Refer back to that verse to help you translate this verse. When Paul says that Jesus **was made … wisdom** and **righteousness, and also sanctification and redemption**, he does not mean that Jesus has become these abstract ideas. Instead, he means that Jesus is the source of **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** for **us** who are **in Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could include some clarifying words such as “the source of.” Alternate translation: “who was made for us the source of wisdom from God, the source of righteousness, and also the source of sanctification and redemption” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 lxpy figs-activepassive ὃς ἐγενήθη σοφία ἡμῖν ἀπὸ Θεοῦ 1 If you cannot write **who was made for us wisdom from God** in this form, you could state it in active form. Alternate translation: “whom God made for us wisdom from himself” or “whom God made for us wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 30 yyns writing-pronouns ὃς 1 The word **who** refers to **Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could write the name of **Christ Jesus** instead of using **who** or along with **who**. Alternate translation: “the Christ who” or (starting a new sentence) “Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 30 g5um figs-abstractnouns σοφία…ἀπὸ Θεοῦ, δικαιοσύνη τε, καὶ ἁγιασμὸς, καὶ ἀπολύτρωσις 1 If you cannot write the abstract nouns **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** in your language, you could express their meaning by using verbs with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “a person through whom God taught us, judged us not guilty, and also set us apart for himself and set us free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 31 dm5h grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 Paul uses the word translated **so that** to introduce (1) the result of everything he has said about God being the one who chooses and acts. Alternate translation: (starting a new sentence) “Because of all this” or “Therefore” (2) the purpose for which God chose the weak and foolish. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 31 gtv0 figs-ellipsis ἵνα καθὼς γέγραπται 1 Here, Paul leaves out some words that might be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the needed words, such as “we should do.” Alternate translation: “so that we should behave just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 31 paga figs-infostructure καθὼς γέγραπται, ὁ καυχώμενος, ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 If it would be unnatural in your language to put **just as it is written** before the quotation, you could put **just as it is written** at the end of the sentence. Alternate translation: “‘Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord,’ just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 31 ebvw writing-quotations καθὼς γέγραπται 1 In Paul’s culture, **just as it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book written by Jeremiah the prophet. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “as it can be read in the Old Testament” or “according to Jeremiah the prophet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 1 31 fym9 figs-imperative ὁ καυχώμενος, ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could (1) translate this one as a conditional sentence, adding “if.” Alternate translation: “If people want to boast, they should boast in the Lord” (2) translate this one using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “Anyone who boasts should boast in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 1 31 mo0q figs-idiom ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 When Paul says that someone can **boast in the Lord**, he does not mean that they are inside **the Lord**. Rather, he means that they are boasting about **the Lord** and what he has done. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that someone is boasting about someone else. Alternate translation: “Let … boast with reference to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 intro k86p 0 # 1 Corinthians 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Paul’s attitude among the Corinthians (2:1–5)<br> * The wisdom of God, revealed by the Spirit (2:6–16)<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verses 9 and 16, which are from the Old Testament. Verse 9 quotes from Isaiah 64:4, and verse 16 quotes from Isaiah 40. <br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Wisdom and foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both wisdom and foolishness. Just as in chapter one, these words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. Continue to use the words you chose in chapter one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>### Power and weakness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both power and weakness. Just as in chapter one, these words primarily refer to how much influence and authority a person has and to how much they can accomplish. Someone who has “power” has much influence and authority and can accomplish many things. Someone who has “weakness” does not have much influence and authority and is not able to accomplish many things. Continue to use the words that you chose in chapter one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/power]])<br><br>### The Spirit<br><br>Paul first mentions the “Spirit” in this chapter. In most places where this word appears, it refers to God’s Spirit (the Holy Spirit), who is the third person of the Trinity. However, in two places in this chapter, the word “spirit” refers to something else. First, “spirit of the world” in [2:12](../02/12.md) refers to a “spirit” that is not God’s Spirit and that originates from within the world. Paul says that this kind of “spirit” is not the kind that believers in Jesus have received. Second, the “spirit of a man” in [2:11](../02/11.md) refers to the non-physical part of a person. It does not refer to God’s Spirit or to something that God’s Spirit replaces. Sometimes Paul uses the adjective form “spiritual” ([2:13](../02/13.md); [2:15](../02/15.md)) and the adverb form “spiritually” ([2:14](../02/14.md)). Both of these forms also refer to God’s Spirit. If someone or something is “spiritual,” that means that the person or thing has or is characterized by God’s Spirit. If something is done “spiritually,” that means that it is done by the power of God’s Spirit. Once, Paul uses the word “natural” ([2:14](../02/14.md)), which is the opposite of “spiritual.” “Natural” means that the person or thing does not have and is not characterized by God’s Spirit. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])<br><br>### The Mystery<br><br>Paul speaks of a “mystery” in [2:1](../02/01.md); [2:7](../02/07.md). This “mystery” is not some secret truth that is hard to understand and that only a few privileged individuals can learn about. Instead, it refers to God’s plans that once were unknown but are now known to all his people. As Paul has already stated in chapter one, these plans center around the cross, which seems to be foolishness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### The deep things of God<br><br>In [2:10](../02/10.md), Paul says that the Spirit searches “the deep things of God.” Paul talks about God as if he were a well or a lake with parts that are deep down in order to identify things about God that humans cannot understand or find it difficult to understand. He does not mean that God is a being or location with deep parts. See the note on this verse for translation options. <br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### The rulers of this age<br><br>I
1CO 2 1 pxmq grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγὼ 1 Here, the word translated **And I** introduces how Paul himself fits into the pattern he introduced in the last chapter. Just as God chooses the weak and the foolish, Paul preaches the Gospel in weak and foolish ways. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces an example or a comparison. Alternate translation: “In the same way, I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 1 qvj7 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to both men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 1 koh8 figs-explicitinfo ἐλθὼν πρὸς ὑμᾶς…ἦλθον οὐ 1 Here, Paul twice says that he has **come** to them. This is a structure that makes sense in Paul’s language. However, if this repetition would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) translate the first **come** with a different word, such as “visit.” Alternate translation: “having visited you, did not come” (2) combine these two phrases. Alternate translation: “did not come to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 2 1 o0vw grammar-connect-time-background ἐλθὼν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 The phrase **having come to you** gives background information. It describes what happened before Paul **did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify by using a word that introduces action that has already occurred. Alternate translation: “after I came to you” or “when I came to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
1CO 2 1 o3ks figs-possession ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **speech** and **wisdom** that have **superiority**. If the meaning of this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **superiority** as an adjective. Alternate translation: “superior speech or superior wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 1 ikmt translate-unknown ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας 1 The word translated **superiority** refers to how something or someone has more authority, skill, knowledge, or power than something or someone else. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable word or a short description. Alternate translation: “greatness of speech or of wisdom” or “speech or wisdom that was better than what others have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 1 kxie grammar-connect-time-simultaneous καταγγέλλων ὑμῖν τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The phrase **proclaiming to you the mystery of God** gives the situation in which Paul **did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit by including a word that indicates that these things are happening at the same time. Alternate translation: “when I proclaimed to you the mystery of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 2 1 nam8 figs-possession τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mystery** that is: (1) revealed by God. Alternate translation: “the mystery given by God” or “the mystery from God” (2) about God. Alternate translation: “the mystery about God” or “the mystery concerning God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 2 a2g9 figs-hyperbole οὐ…ἔκρινά τι εἰδέναι ἐν ὑμῖν, εἰ μὴ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν 1 I decided to know nothing … except Jesus Christ Here, Paul speaks as if he decides to forget all his knowledge and become ignorant of everything except for **Jesus Christ**. This is an exaggeration that Paul uses to emphasize his focus on **Jesus Christ** as the one thing he wished to tell the Corinthians about. If this exaggeration would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that it is an exaggeration or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I decided to speak among you only about Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 2 2 nk9r grammar-connect-exceptions οὐ…ἔκρινά τι εἰδέναι ἐν ὑμῖν, εἰ μὴ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν, καὶ τοῦτον ἐσταυρωμένον 1 If it would appear in your language that Paul makes a strong statement about knowing nothing and then contradicts it, you could reword this sentence so that there is no **except**. Alternate translation: “I decided that I would only know among you Jesus Christ and him crucified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 2 2 zvge figs-activepassive τοῦτον ἐσταυρωμένον 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, using a phrase such as “he died on the cross” or adding a vague subject. Alternate translation: “how they crucified him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 3 xen3 grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγὼ 1 Here, the word translated **And I** is the same word Paul used to introduce [2:1](../02/01.md). It again introduces how Paul himself fits into the pattern he introduced in the last chapter. Just as God chooses the weak and the foolish, Paul himself was weak and foolish. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces an example or a comparison. Alternate translation: “Just as I did not use superior words and wisdom, I myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 3 s9lp κἀγὼ…ἐγενόμην πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 I was with you Alternate translation: “And I remained with you”
1CO 2 3 e8li figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀσθενείᾳ, καὶ ἐν φόβῳ, καὶ ἐν τρόμῳ πολλῷ, 1 in weakness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the abstract nouns **weakness**, **fear**, and **trembling** with adjectives or verbs. Alternate translation: “as a weak, afraid, and frequently trembling person” or “while I ailed, feared, and often trembled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 lewv figs-ellipsis ὁ λόγος μου καὶ τὸ κήρυγμά μου, οὐκ ἐν πειθοῖς σοφίας λόγοις 1 Here, Paul does not use the verb **were** in his sentence. In English, this word is essential, so it has been included in the ULT. If you can translate this sentence without **were**, you could do so here. Otherwise, you could retain **were** as it appears in the ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 4 g5my figs-abstractnouns ὁ λόγος μου καὶ τὸ κήρυγμά μου, οὐκ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **word** and **proclamation** with verbs. Alternate translation: “I spoke and proclaimed a message not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 m23e figs-abstractnouns ἐν πειθοῖς σοφίας λόγοις 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **words** with a verb such as “speak” and the idea behind the abstract noun **wisdom** with an adverb such as “wisely.” Alternate translation: “based on speaking persuasively and wisely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 hl7e figs-possession σοφίας λόγοις 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to identify the **words** as containing **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **wisdom** with an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “wise words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 4 chtx figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως; 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add them here, supplying the idea from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “but my word and my proclamation were with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 4 kgnb figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **demonstration** and **power** with verbs. Alternate translation: “based on demonstrating the Spirit and how he works powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 qrfj figs-possession ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **demonstration** that: (1) comes from **the Spirit** and **power**. Alternate translation: “a demonstration by the Spirit and by power” (2) proves that the **Spirit** and **power** are present. Alternate translation: “a demonstration of the presence of the Spirit and of power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 4 s83h translate-unknown ἀποδείξει 1 The word translated **demonstration** refers to proving or showing that something is true. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression. Alternate translation: “a validation” or “a confirmation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 4 s6h6 figs-hendiadys Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **Spirit** tells who is acting in **power**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “of the Spirit’s power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1CO 2 5 av3t figs-idiom ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, μὴ ᾖ ἐν σοφίᾳ ἀνθρώπων, ἀλλ’ ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 Here, the phrase translated **faith … in** refers to believing something (**faith**) based on (**in**) something else. It does not refer, as it does in many other places, to believing in or trusting in something. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use translate **in** with a word or phrase that indicates the basis of the **faith**. Alternate translation: “your faith might not be based on the wisdom of men but based on the power of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 5 ovoj figs-activepassive ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, μὴ ᾖ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form by translating **faith** with a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Alternate translation: “you might believe not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 5 rkoy figs-possession σοφίᾳ ἀνθρώπων 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **men** think is **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **men** with an adjective such as “human.” Alternate translation: “in human wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 5 cdw7 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)<br>
1CO 2 5 b29d figs-possession δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **power** that **God** has and shows. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **power** as a verb or adverb with **God** as the subject. Alternate translation: “God working powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 azm7 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Now we do speak Here, the word translated **Now** introduces a contrast with what Paul has said in [2:4–5](../02/4–5.md). In those verses, he said that he did not speak with **wisdom**. In this verse, however, he clarifies that he does **speak** with a kind of **wisdom**. If **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “In spite of this,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 6 uena figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν 1 Here, **we** refers to Paul and others like him who preach the Gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 2 6 uka3 figs-abstractnouns σοφίαν -1 speak wisdom If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **wisdom** by using an adverb such as “wisely” or an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “wisely … the wise speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 6 eq1q figs-nominaladj τοῖς τελείοις 1 the mature Paul is using the adjective **mature** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate **mature** with a noun phrase or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “those who are mature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 2 6 tm2e figs-possession σοφίαν δὲ, οὐ τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου, οὐδὲ τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that fits with the standards and values of **this age** and that **rulers of this age** value. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “but not wisdom that fits with this age nor wisdom that the rulers of this age value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 xn85 figs-ellipsis σοφίαν δὲ, οὐ 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to make this a complete thought. If so, you could supply words from early in the verse. Alternate translation: “but we do not speak wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 6 xydl figs-possession τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **rulers** who are in power during **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using language about the time in which the rulers have power or the place in which they have power. Alternate translation: “of the rulers who have power now” or “of the rulers who control this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 endk translate-unknown τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 The **rulers of this age** could refer to: (1) humans who have power. Alternate translation: “of the people who rule this age” (2) spiritual beings that have power. Alternate translation: “of the spiritual powers that rule this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 6 tbnh translate-unknown τῶν καταργουμένων 1 Paul has already used the word translated **passing away** in [1:28](../01/28.md), where it is translated **bring to nothing**. Here, the word means that the **rulers** are becoming ineffective, useless, or irrelevant, which means that they will no longer have power. If possible, translate this word like you did in [1:28](../01/28.md). Alternate translation: “who are becoming ineffective” or “who are losing their power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 7 l064 figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν…ἡμῶν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and anyone who preaches the Gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. However, the word **our** does include the Corinthians along with Paul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 2 7 bsme figs-possession Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that **God** would consider to be true **wisdom**. This also means that the **wisdom** comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that the **wisdom** comes from **God**. Alternate translation: “the wisdom from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 7 wy8u figs-abstractnouns σοφίαν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun wisdom by using an adverb such as “wisely” or an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “the wise message” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
1CO 2 7 xbye figs-explicitinfo ἐν μυστηρίῳ τὴν ἀποκεκρυμμένην 1 Here, Paul uses both **has been hidden** and **in a mystery**. Both of these phrases refer to something that is secret. If using both of these phrases is redundant and would be misunderstood in your language, you could use only one. Alternate translation: “that has been hidden” or “that is a mystery” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 2 7 fd3s figs-activepassive τὴν ἀποκεκρυμμένην 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “that God has hidden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 7 ctb4 writing-pronouns ἣν 1 The word translated **that** refers to **the wisdom**, not **a mystery**. If what **that** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat **wisdom** here. Alternate translation: “, the wisdom that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 2 7 k2ct figs-idiom πρὸ τῶν αἰώνων 1 before the ages Paul uses the phrase translated **before the ages** to say that God **predestined** before he made anything. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “before the beginning of time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 7 q2z9 grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς δόξαν ἡμῶν 1 for our glory Here, the phrase translated **for our glory** introduces the purpose for which **God predestined** the **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a purpose. Alternate translation: “so that we might have glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 2 8 bw5i writing-pronouns ἣν 1 Just as in [2:7](../02/07.md), the word translated **which** refers to “the wisdom,” not to “a mystery.” If what **which** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat “wisdom” here. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns)
1CO 2 8 imbk figs-possession τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Just as in [2:6](../02/06.md), Paul uses the possessive form to describe **rulers** who are in power during **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using language about the time in which **the rulers** have power or the place in which they have power. Alternate translation: “of the rulers who have power now” or “of the rulers who control this world” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)
1CO 2 8 ur15 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces Paul’s proof that **the rulers** did not understand. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea using a word that customarily introduces proof or evidence. Alternate translation: “which is true because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 8 ji1o grammar-connect-condition-contrary εἰ…ἔγνωσαν, οὐκ ἂν τὸν Κύριον τῆς δόξης ἐσταύρωσαν; 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a scenario that he knows is not true. He wants to point out that the **rulers** were the ones who **crucified** Jesus, and this proves that they did not understand God’s wisdom. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by reversing the two clauses and making **they understood it** negative and **they would not have crucified the Lord of glory** positive. Alternate translation: “they crucified the Lord glory, which means that they did not understand it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 2 8 zc89 figs-possession τὸν Κύριον τῆς δόξης 1 the Lord of glory Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **the Lord** who has **glory**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **glory** with an adjective or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the Lord who has glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 9 fu1y grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Things that no eye … arisen, the things … who love him The word translated **But** introduces a contrast with the hypothetical statement in [2:8](../02/08.md) about how the rulers would not have crucified the Lord if they had understood God’s wisdom. The **But** reminds the reader that this hypothetical statement is not true, and Paul wishes to introduce further statements about how people do not understand God’s wisdom. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave **But** untranslated or use a word or phrase that would signal that Paul is now longer speaking hypothetically. Alternate translation: “But no,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 2 9 wuar figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ καθὼς γέγραπται 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary in your language to form a complete thought. If necessary, you can supply a summary from [2:8](../02/08.md) of what the rulers did not understand and how they acted. Alternate translation: “But the rulers did not understand, just as it is written” or “But the rulers did do these things, just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 9 qcb2 writing-quotations καθὼς γέγραπται 1 In Paul’s culture,** just as it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book written by Isaiah the prophet. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “as it can be read in the Old Testament” or “according to Isaiah the prophet” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations)
1CO 2 9 pt3m figs-infostructure ἃ ὀφθαλμὸς οὐκ εἶδεν, καὶ οὖς οὐκ ἤκουσεν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη, ἃ ἡτοίμασεν ὁ Θεὸς τοῖς ἀγαπῶσιν αὐτόν 1 In this quotation, **What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man** are the **things God has prepared**. If hearing **What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man** before **God has prepared** would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order. Alternate translation: “God has prepared for those who love him what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 9 j9ib figs-synecdoche ἃ ὀφθαλμὸς οὐκ εἶδεν, καὶ οὖς οὐκ ἤκουσεν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη 1 Things that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has imagined Here, the words **eye**, **ear**, and **heart** refer to the parts of the person that see, hear, and think. In each case, the word means that the whole person sees, hears, and thinks. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to a person as a whole instead of just a part of that person. Alternate translation: “What a person has not seen, and a person has not heard, and has not arisen when a person thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 2 9 xe03 figs-idiom ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη 1 The phrase **heart of man** refers to the place where humans think. If something “arises” there, that means that a human has thought about that thing. If the meaning of **arisen in the heart of man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “man has not thought about” or “man has not imagined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 9 pigi figs-possession καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **heart** that belongs to a **man**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate **man** with an adjective such as “human.” Alternate translation: “the human heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 9 yw0a figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπου 1 Although the word translated **man** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 2 9 us5y grammar-collectivenouns ἀνθρώπου 1 Here, even though **man** is written in singular form, it refers to anyone who would be considered a **man**, that is, any human. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you can make **man** plural. Alternate translation: “of men” or “of humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1CO 2 10 z472 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of the last line of the quote from [2:9](../02/09.md): “these things God has prepared for those who love him.” Paul wants to explain that these are the things that **God has revealed** to those who believe. If the meaning of **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave the word untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 10 hp6w grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 2 Here, the word translated **For** introduces an explanation for why God’s revelation is made **to us through the Spirit**. It is because the **Spirit searches everything** and knows everything that is **revealed**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces this kind of explanation. Alternate translation: “He works through the Spirit because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 10 zccl translate-unknown ἐραυνᾷ 1 Here, the word translated **searches** refers to how someone can explore or know about something else. If the meaning of **searches** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use another word for “exploring” or “knowing.” Alternate translation: “comprehends” or “knows about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 10 bhyv translate-unknown τὰ βάθη τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The phrase **deep things of God** refers to things about God that are hard to understand or things about God that no one can fully comprehend. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression or state the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “secrets about God” or “things about God that no one knows” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 11 h4p8 figs-rquestion τίς γὰρ οἶδεν ἀνθρώπων τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, εἰ μὴ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ? 1 For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of the person in him? Here, Paul uses question because he thinks that everyone will agree with him, for this information is common knowledge in his culture. He does not use a question because he is not sure about the answer. If using a question here would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a form that presents information that everyone knows and agrees with. Alternate translation: “For it is a well-known fact that no one among men knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man that {is} within him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 2 11 gw3u grammar-connect-exceptions τίς γὰρ οἶδεν ἀνθρώπων τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, εἰ μὴ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ? οὕτως καὶ τὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐδεὶς ἔγνωκεν, εἰ μὴ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ. 1 no one knows the deep things of God except the Spirit of God In both parts of this verse, Paul makes a negative claim and then gives an exception to that claim. If it would appear in your language that Paul is contradicting himself, you could use a different structure that also singles out one possibility and negates all other possibilities. Alternate translation: “For the spirit of the man that {is} within him is the only one among men that knows the things of a man, right? So also, the Spirit of God is the only one that knows the things of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 2 11 li8e figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων…ἀνθρώπου…τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Although the words translated **men**, **man**, and **him** are masculine, Paul is using them to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “among people … of a person … of the person that {is} within that person” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 2 11 lmzi figs-genericnoun ἀνθρώπου…τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Paul uses the word **man** to speak of people in general, not one specific person. If the meaning of **man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “of a certain man … of that certain man that {is} within him” or “of men … of men that {is} within them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 2 11 wfr2 figs-idiom τίς…ἀνθρώπων 1 The phrase **who among men** is a way of asking about people or things that belong to a specific category. Paul means to ask if there are any **men** who can know **the things of a man**. He uses this phrase because God also **knows the things of a man**, so he must limit his question to only **men**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase that asks about people or things, but only those that belong in a specific category. Alternate translation: “which man” or “out of all men, who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 11 mi27 figs-idiom τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου…τὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the phrases **the things of a man** and **the things of God** to refer to everything that makes up the person, including personality, thoughts, actions, desires, possessions, and many more similar categories. Paul is intentionally general and does not narrow down which of these categories he has in mind. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to all the aspects of a person that makes that person unique. Alternate translation: “all the details about a man … all the details about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 11 i47d translate-unknown τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 spirit of the person The word translated **spirit** is the same word that Paul uses for the Holy **Spirit**. It refers to the interior life of a person, to the part of them that people cannot see, including their thoughts and desires. If possible, use the same word here that you will use later in the verse for the **Spirit**, since Paul is drawing an analogy between the human **spirit** and God’s **Spirit**. If you cannot use the word for God’s **Spirit** to describe a human being, you could: (1) refer simply to a human without specifying which part of the human **knows**. Alternate translation: “the man himself” (2) use an expression that refers to the interior life of a human. Alternate translation: “the consciousness of the man that {is} within him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 11 to3t figs-idiom τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 In this culture, people would speak of the non-physical part of human beings as if it were inside the physical part of human beings. Here, Paul speaks in this way when he says that the **spirit of the man** is **within him**. By using **within him**, Paul is identifying the **spirit** as the one that belongs to **the man**. It is not some other man’s **spirit**. If the meaning of **within him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) use a word or phrase that identifies that the **spirit** belongs to **the man** only. Alternate translation: “that man’s own spirit” (2) express the idea by using a phrase that describes where a human being’s non-physical part would be in your culture. Alternate translation: “the spirit of the man that permeates him” or “the spirit of the man that suffuses him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 12 zbv8 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 General Information: Here, the word translated **But** introduces the next part of Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that signifies that the argument is moving on. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 12 evts figs-infostructure ἡμεῖς…οὐ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου ἐλάβομεν, ἀλλὰ τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If stating the negative before the positive would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order of the **not** statement and the **but** statement. Alternate translation: “we received the Spirit who {is} from God, not the spirit of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 12 emse translate-unknown τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου 1 The phrase **spirit of the world** could refer to: (1) a **spirit** that does not actually exist. In other words, Paul is saying that the Spirit they received did not come from the **world** but rather came from **God**. Alternate translation: “a spirit that comes from the world” (2) human ways of thinking and understanding, which could be called a **spirit**. In other words, Paul is saying that they did not receive human ways of thinking but rather ways of thinking that God’s Spirit brings. Alternate translation: “human ways of thinking” ((See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 12 ev7j figs-possession τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **spirit** that comes from or has its source in **the world**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that **the world** is the source or origin of this **spirit**. Alternate translation: “the spirit from the world” or “the spirit that comes from the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 12 vw4v figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ τὸ Πνεῦμα 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to make a complete thought. If this shortened form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply some words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “but we received the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 12 w1qd figs-activepassive τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could make God the subject of the **who** statement. Alternate translation: “the Spirit whom God sent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 12 n1c7 figs-activepassive τὰ ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ χαρισθέντα ἡμῖν 1 freely given to us by God If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that God has freely given to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 nan2 figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and others who proclaim the Gospel with him. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive)
1CO 2 13 u797 figs-infostructure οὐκ ἐν διδακτοῖς ἀνθρωπίνης σοφίας λόγοις, ἀλλ’ ἐν διδακτοῖς Πνεύματος 1 The Spirit interprets spiritual words with spiritual wisdom If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them, putting **words** with the positive statement. Alternate translation: “in words taught by the Spirit, not in those taught by human wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 13 yg45 figs-activepassive διδακτοῖς ἀνθρωπίνης σοφίας λόγοις 1 The Spirit interprets spiritual words with spiritual wisdom If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “words that human wisdom teaches” or “words that humans teach as wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 ywbw figs-activepassive διδακτοῖς Πνεύματος 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “those that the Spirit teaches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 gueq translate-unknown πνευματικοῖς πνευματικὰ συνκρίνοντες 1 Here, the phrase **combining spiritual things with spiritual words** could mean: (1) that Paul and those with him interpret **spiritual things** and ideas with **spiritual words**. Alternate translation: “interpreting spiritual things with spiritual words” (2) that Paul and those with him explain **spiritual things** to **spiritual** people. Alternate translation: “explaining spiritual things to spiritual people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 13 kinz grammar-connect-time-simultaneous συνκρίνοντες 1 Here, the word translated **combining** introduces an action that takes place at the same time as when **we speak**. The idea is that **combining spiritual things with spiritual words** is the way that **we speak these things**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by including a word or phrase that indicates that **combining** is the way in which **we speak**. Alternate translation: “by means of combining” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 2 13 mnpq translate-unknown συνκρίνοντες 1 The word translated **combining** could mean: (1) interpreting or explaining an idea. Alternate translation: “interpreting” (2) putting two things together, either to compare or blend them together. Alternate translation: “comparing” or “compounding” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 14 i8jw grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The word translated **But** introduces a new part of Paul’s argument, and it also introduces a contrast with how Paul and those with him speak by the power of the Spirit in [2:13](../02/13.md). Unlike Paul and those with him, the **natural person** does not have the Spirit and does not use spiritual words. If the meaning of **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “However,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 2 14 hq3u translate-unknown ψυχικὸς…ἄνθρωπος 1 unspiritual person The phrase **the natural person** describes a person who does not have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes someone who has not received God’s Spirit. Alternate translation: “the person without the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 14 cve2 figs-genericnoun ψυχικὸς…ἄνθρωπος, οὐ δέχεται…αὐτῷ…οὐ δύναται 1 General Information: Paul uses the words **person**, **him**, and **he** to speak of people in general, not one specific man. If the meaning of these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “any natural person does not receive … to him or her … he or she is not able” or “natural people do not receive … to them … they are not able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 2 14 vvju figs-gendernotations αὐτῷ…οὐ δύναται 1 Here, the words translated **him** and **he** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “to that person … that person is not able” or “to him or her … he or she is not able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 14 fye5 figs-activepassive μωρία…αὐτῷ ἐστίν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could reverse the structure and make **him** the subject of a verb such as “think” or “consider.” Alternate translation: “for he thinks that they are foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 14 gwe3 figs-activepassive πνευματικῶς ἀνακρίνεται 1 because they are spiritually discerned If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form with vague or non-specific subject. Alternate translation: “people can only discern them spiritually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 14 vznr πνευματικῶς ἀνακρίνεται 1 Alternate translation: “they are discerned by the power of the Spirit” or “they are discerned by people who are indwelt by the Spirit”
1CO 2 15 w4q7 translate-unknown ὁ…πνευματικὸς 1 the one who is spiritual Here, Paul uses **the spiritual one** as the opposite of “the natural person” in [2:14](../02/14.md). The phrase **the spiritual one** describes a person who does have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes someone who has received God’s Spirit. Alternate translation: “the person with the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 15 gcv7 figs-genericnoun ὁ…πνευματικὸς ἀνακρίνει…αὐτὸς…ἀνακρίνεται 1 Paul uses the words **spiritual one** and **he himself** to speak of people in general, not one specific man. If the meaning of these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general. Alternate translation: “any spiritual person discerns … he himself or she herself” or “spiritual people discern … they themselves are discerned” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun)
1CO 2 15 ap89 figs-hyperbole τὰ πάντα 1 Here, Paul uses phrase translated **all things** as an exaggeration to emphasize that the **spiritual one** can discern God’s gifts and the message of the Gospel. He does not mean that every **spiritual** person is able to discern everything there is to know. If this exaggeration would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “many things,” and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “many things indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 2 15 ji5n figs-activepassive αὐτὸς…ὑπ’ οὐδενὸς ἀνακρίνεται 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “no one discerns him himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 15 ypl6 figs-gendernotations αὐτὸς…ἀνακρίνεται 1 Here, the words translated **he himself** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he himself** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “that person is discerned” or “he himself or she herself is discerned” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 2 15 zg4b figs-explicit αὐτὸς…ὑπ’ οὐδενὸς ἀνακρίνεται 1 Here, Paul wishes to say that it is impossible for someone without the Spirit to properly understand or make judgments about the person who does have the Spirit. If this implication would be missed by your readers, you could make it more explicit that Paul speaking about the possibility of someone without the Spirit “discerning” someone with the Spirit. Alternate translation: “he himself cannot be discerned by anyone who is not spiritual” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 2 16 ye98 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces proof from Scripture to support what Paul has said about the “natural person” and the “spiritual” person in [2:14–15](../02/14–15.md). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that Paul is introducing proof. Alternate translation: “You can tell that these things are true because” or “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 16 tj79 writing-quotations γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** is the only word that Paul has used to introduce this quotation from the Old Testament, in this case, from the book written by Isaiah the prophet. If introducing a quotation in this way would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For, as it can be read in the Old Testament,” or “For, according to Isaiah the prophet,” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 2 16 m4pu figs-rquestion τίς…ἔγνω νοῦν Κυρίου, ὃς συμβιβάσει αὐτόν? 1 For who can know the mind of the Lord, that he can instruct him? Here, the passage that Paul quotes from the book of Isaiah uses a question to indicate that no human **has known the mind of the Lord**, and no human **will instruct him**. The question is not asking for information. Instead, it assumes that the answer is “no one,” and the author uses a question to make a negative claim that is stronger than a simple statement. If the question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “no one has known the mind of the Lord—no one will instruct him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 2 16 wacc figs-possession νοῦν Κυρίου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mind** that the **Lord** has or uses. If it would be misunderstood that the **Lord** is one who is thinking with **the mind**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the thoughts that the Lord thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 16 r18k figs-metaphor νοῦν Χριστοῦ ἔχομεν 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **we** are people who possess **the mind of Christ**. Paul means that **we** are able to understand what Christ thinks and share the same ways of thinking with him. He does not mean that we have taken Christ’s **mind** from him or that we no longer have our own **mind**. If “having someone else’s mind” would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or with a verb such as “share.” Alternate translation: “think the same thoughts as Christ does”or “share in the mind of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 2 16 pr9b figs-possession νοῦν Χριστοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mind** that **Christ** has or uses. If it would be misunderstood that **Christ** is one who is thinking with **the mind**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the thoughts that Christ thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 intro g6ku 0 # 1 Corinthians 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Paul identifies the divisions (3:1–5)<br> * Farming metaphor (3:6–9a)<br> * Building metaphor (3:9b–15<br> * Temple metaphor (3:16–17)<br> * Wisdom and folly (3:18–20)<br> * All things are yours (3:21–23)<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page to make them easier to read. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verses 19 and 20. Verse 19 quotes from Job 5:13, and verse 20 quotes from Psalm 94:11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Fleshly people<br><br>In [3:1–4](../03/01–04.md), Paul calls the Corinthian believers “fleshly.” In [3:3](../03/03.md), he defines “fleshly” as “walking according to men.” The word “fleshly” thus refers to people who think and behave from a merely human point of view, without thinking and behaving from God’s perspective. The opposite of “fleshly” is “spiritual,” which refers to those who think and behave by the power of the Spirit (see [3:1](../0/01.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br><br>### Fire and judgment<br><br>In Paul’s culture, fire was commonly associated with the day when God would come to judge everyone. Paul uses this association when he makes use of the metaphor of a building. When a building catches on fire, it shows how well it was build. Similarly, when the fire of God’s judgment comes, it will show who has taught the gospel correctly. Fire fits within the metaphor of a building, but it is not just a part of that metaphor. If it is possible, retain the language of fire for God’s judgment. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judgmentday]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fire]])<br><br>### Wisdom and Foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both wisdom and foolishness. Just as in chapters one and two, these words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. Continue to use the words you chose in chapters one and two. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Infants and food metaphor<br><br>In [3:1–2](../03/01–02.md), Paul speaks as if the Corinthians are infants who were, and still are, unable to eat any solid food but can only drink milk. By speaking about them as if they were infants, Paul wishes to tell the Corinthians that they are spiritually immature. They are immature enough that they can only drink milk. Paul uses “milk” to refer to the very basic teachings about Christ, while he uses “solid food” to refer to the more advanced teachings. In translating this metaphor, use words that identify what very small children can eat (milk) and what they cannot eat (solid food). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])<br><br>### Farming metaphor<br><br>In [3:6–9a](../03/06–09.md), Paul speaks as if he and Apollos were farmers. Paul first proclaimed the gospel to the Corinthians, so he is like a farmer who plants seeds. Apollos taught the Corinthians more about the gospel, so he is like a farmer who waters the plants when they start to grow. However, God is the one who makes seeds grow into plants and the one who enables believers to accept and learn more about the gospel. With this metaphor, Paul wishes to emphasize that he and Apollos are equal in that they both teach about the gospel. However, neither one of them is significant in comparison to God, who is the one who actually enables people to accept and believe in the gospel. If possible, preserve the farming metaphor, even if you need to adjust some of the details. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])<br><br>### Building metaphor<br><br>In [3:9b–15](../03/09–15.md), Paul speaks of the Corin
1CO 3 1 zfdg grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγώ 1 The word translated **And I** is the same word that appears at the beginning of [2:1](../02/01.md). Just as there, Paul uses **And I** here to introduce how his own experience visiting the Corinthians fits into the general pattern he has outlined at the end of chapter 2. Here, however, his experience with the Corinthians is the opposite of what he would have liked. Therefore, the words **And I** introduce a contrast with what he said in [2:16](../02/16.md) about having the mind of Christ. If the meaning of **And I** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a specific example or a word or phrase that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “But I” or “As for me, I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 1 r4iw figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **brothers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 3 1 jn0q figs-infostructure οὐκ ἠδυνήθην λαλῆσαι ὑμῖν ὡς πνευματικοῖς, ἀλλ’ ὡς σαρκίνοις, ὡς νηπίοις ἐν Χριστῷ. 1 If stating the negative before the positive would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order of the **not** statement and the **but** statements. Alternate translation: “had to speak to you as to fleshly, as to infants in Christ, not as to spiritual” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
1CO 3 1 jx17 figs-nominaladj πνευματικοῖς…σαρκίνοις 1 spiritual people Paul is using the adjectives **spiritual** and **fleshly** as nouns in order to describe groups of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “to spiritual people … to fleshly people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj)
1CO 3 1 r5w5 figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ὡς σαρκίνοις, ὡς νηπίοις 1 fleshly people Here, Paul leaves out some words that might be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the needed words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “but I spoke to you as to fleshly, I spoke to you as to infants” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1CO 3 1 ja6t figs-metaphor νηπίοις ἐν Χριστῷ 1 as to little children in Christ Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians were **infants**. He wants the Corinthians to think about how **infants** are immature, do not have much knowledge, and are unable to understand most things. By calling the Corinthians **infants in Christ**, he means that in their relationship with Jesus, they were immature, had little knowledge, and were unable to understand very much. If calling the Corinthians **infants** would be misunderstood in your language, you could a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to beginners in Christ” or “to those who could understand very little about their faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 1 m588 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or being united to Christ, explains in what area of their lives they were like **infants**. They acted like **infants** in their relationship with Christ. If the meaning of **in Christ** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by referring to their “faith” in **Christ** or their “relationship” with **Christ**. Alternate translation: “in their faith in Christ” or “in their relationship with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 2 vg2v figs-metaphor γάλα ὑμᾶς ἐπότισα, οὐ βρῶμα 1 I fed you milk, not solid food Paul refers to **milk** because it is the food of “infants,” whom Paul already mentioned in [3:1](../03/01.md). The **milk** is the only thing that the “infants” can eat, and Paul thus uses **milk** to refer to the very simplest things that the Corinthians were able to understand about the Gospel. “Infants” do not eat **solid food**, because they are not yet able to properly chew or digest it. So, Paul uses **solid food** to refer to the more complex things about the Gospel that he could not teach the Corinthians because they were “infants,” that is, people who could not understand such complex teachings. If that metaphor about **milk** and **solid food** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I taught you the basics, not the full picture”or “I taughtyou things that are easy to understand, not things that are hard to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 2 fujt figs-ellipsis οὐ βρῶμα 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add a phrase such as “to eat.” Alternate translation: “not solid food to eat” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1CO 3 2 d2x5 figs-ellipsis οὔπω…ἐδύνασθε…οὐδὲ νῦν δύνασθε 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add them here, supplying the idea from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “you were not yet able to eat solid food … even now, you are not able to eat solid food” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1CO 3 2 i3r5 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The word translated **Indeed** functions to contrast the time when Paul visited the Corinthians with the time when Paul is writing this letter. He speaks of these two different times to say that the Corinthians could not to eat the **solid food** at either time. If the meaning of **Indeed** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that contrasts two times or a word that introduces additional information. Alternate translation: “But” or “In fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 3 3 m712 figs-nominaladj σαρκικοί -1 still fleshly Paul is using the adjective **fleshly** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “fleshly people … fleshly people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj)
1CO 3 3 o618 figs-abstractnouns ὅπου…ἐν ὑμῖν ζῆλος καὶ ἔρις 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **jealousy** and **strife** by using verbs such as “being jealous” and “fighting.” Alternate translation: “where you are jealous and fight with one another” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
1CO 3 3 s1uy figs-metonymy ὅπου 1 The word translated **where** often refers to space. However, here Paul uses it to refer to time. Instead of identifying a specific location, it identifies a specific time. If the meaning of **where** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that refers to time. Alternate translation: “when there is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 3 3 k5ll figs-rquestion οὐχὶ σαρκικοί ἐστε καὶ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον περιπατεῖτε? 1 are you not living according to the flesh, and are you not walking by human standards? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement that draws a conclusion from the **jealousy** and the **strife**. Alternate translation: “you are fleshly and walking according to men” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 3 3 oz5v figs-hendiadys καὶ 2 Here, Paul uses the word translated **and** to introduce a definition of what **fleshly** means. It means **walking according to men**. If you cannot use **and** to introduce a definition or explanation, you could use another word or phrase that does introduce a definition or explanation. Alternate translation: “, that is, are you not” or “, which means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1CO 3 3 as2u figs-metaphor κατὰ ἄνθρωπον περιπατεῖτε 1 Paul speaks of behavior in life as if it were **walking**. If **walking** would not be understood as a description of a person’s way of life in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “behaving as men do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 3 ljri figs-idiom κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 Here, Paul speaks of behavior that is **according to men**. By using this phrase, he wishes to identify behaviors that people who think and act in only human ways do. These people do not have God’s Spirit, so they “walk” according to the values and goals of this world. If the phrase **according to men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that refers to things and behaviors that people who do not believe value. Alternate translation: “according to what mere humans value” or “according to this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 3 y8b4 figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπον 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “humans” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 3 4 cidr grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces further evidence for Paul’s argument that the Corinthians in acting in merely humans ways. If that meaning for **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave **For** untranslated or express the idea using a word or phrase that introduces more evidence or examples. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 4 g8zt writing-pronouns λέγῃ τις…ἕτερος 1 Here, Paul uses the pronouns **one** and **another** to give two examples of some people in the Corinthian church who are sayings these kinds of things. He does not mean that only two people are saying these things. He also does not mean that these are the only things that people in the church are saying. If the form that Paul uses would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words that introduce examples of a larger pattern, and you could add a phrase that indicates that the words **I am of Paul** and **I am of of Apollos** are two examples of the kinds of things that they are saying. Alternate translation: “some people among you say things like … other people among you say things like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 4 rmtq figs-quotations ἐγὼ…εἰμι Παύλου…ἐγὼ Ἀπολλῶ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that he or she is of Paul … that he or she is of Apollos” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations)
1CO 3 4 g68p figs-possession ἐγὼ…εἰμι Παύλου…ἐγὼ Ἀπολλῶ 1 Just as in [1:12](../01/12.md), Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that people are claiming to be part of a specific leader’s group. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “belong” or “follow.” Alternate translation: “‘I follow Paul’ … ‘I follow Apollos’” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)
1CO 3 4 zsby translate-names Παύλου…Ἀπολλῶ 1 These are the names of two men. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)
1CO 3 4 s96g figs-rquestion οὐκ ἄνθρωποί ἐστε? 1 are you not living as human beings? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement that draws a conclusion from what Paul says the Corinthians are saying. Alternate translation: “you are men” or “this shows that you are men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 4 mmlq figs-explicit ἄνθρωποί 1 When Paul says that the Corinthians are **men**, he means that they are “only” or “merely” **men**. He is not identifying them as humans. Rather, he means that they are acting and speaking from “merely human” perspective rather than from God’s perspective, a perspective they can share if they have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of **men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add a word or phrase that clarifies that **men** refers to a “merely human” view of the world. Alternate translation: “merely men” or “speaking from a human perspective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 4 te5r figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποί 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “humans” or “men and women” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 3 5 typo grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 The word translated **then** introduces a further stage in Paul’s argument. He has argued in [3:3](../03/04.md) that **Paul** and **Apollos** should not be treated as leaders of groups. In this verse, he goes on to explain how he thinks that **Paul** and **Apollos** should be treated, which is as servants of Christ. Thus, the word translated **then** introduces who **Paul** and **Apollos** really are. If how **then** functions would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word that introduces the next step in an argument. Alternate translation: “, therefore,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 5 m463 figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν Ἀπολλῶς? τί δέ ἐστιν Παῦλος? διάκονοι 1 Who then is Apollos? And who is Paul? Here, Paul uses these questions to do two things. First, the questions imply that **Apollos** and **Paul** are not very important. Therefore, an implied answer to these questions would be that **Apollos** and **Paul** are “not very much.” Second, Paul uses the questions to introduce his own answer to these questions. After using the questions to imply that he and **Apollos** are not much, he then states that they are **servants**. If using questions in these ways would be misunderstood in your language, you could express them as a statement about the status of **Apollos** and **Paul** as **servants**, and you could use a word such as “only” or “merely” to express the idea that they are not very important. Alternate translation: “Apollos and Paul are merely servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 5 i9d0 translate-names Ἀπολλῶς…Παῦλος 1 These are the names of two men. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)
1CO 3 5 lq6n figs-123person ἐστιν Παῦλος? 1 And who is Paul? In this verse, **Paul** speaks of himself in the third person. This could sound like he is speaking about a different **Paul** than himself. If this use of **Paul** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **Paul** is naming himself. Alternate translation: “am I, Paul” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person)
1CO 3 5 qmy2 figs-ellipsis διάκονοι δι’ ὧν ἐπιστεύσατε 1 Servants through whom you believed Here, Paul omits several words that may be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could include the words needed to make a complete thought, such as “we are” or “they are.” Alternate translation: “We are servants through whom you believed” or “They are servants through whom you believed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 5 edod figs-explicit διάκονοι δι’ ὧν ἐπιστεύσατε 1 When **Paul** says that he and **Apollos** are those **through whom** the Corinthians **believed**, he is implying that the Corinthians believed in someone other than **Paul** and **Apollos**. That is, they believed in Christ. If this implication about **whom** the Corinthians **believed** in would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit by including what the Corinthians **believed** in, which is “Christ” and not **Apollos** or **Paul**. Alternate translation: “Servants through whom you believed in Christ” or “Servants through whom you believed in Christ, not in us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 5 h2jv grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ…ὡς 1 Here, the words translated **even as** introduce the way in which **Apollos** and **Paul** act as **servants**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that could introduce the ways in which **Apollos** and **Paul** asre servants. Alternate translation: “who do what” or “serving just as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 5 f6wm figs-ellipsis καὶ ἑκάστῳ ὡς ὁ Κύριος ἔδωκεν 1 Servants through whom you believed, to each of whom the Lord gave tasks Here, Paul omits what **the Lord gave** because it would be clear that he means that **the Lord gave** a specific job or task **to each one** of them. If **the Lord gave to each one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add a word or phrase that indicates that **the Lord gave** a specific job or task. Alternate translation: “even as the Lord gave a task to teach one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 5 e8tb writing-pronouns ἑκάστῳ 1 The word translated **to each one** directly refers back to **Apollos** and **Paul**. However, it also probably refers to everyone who serves the Lord. If you can refer to multiple individuals considered separately in your language, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “to each and every one who serves him” or “per person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 6 iah7 figs-exmetaphor ἐγὼ ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ηὔξανεν. 1 I planted Paul speaks about the roles that God gave to him and to **Apollos** as if they were farmers who **planted** and **watered** their crops. The one who “plants” is the person who begins the farming process, just like Paul first introduced the Corinthians to the gospel. The one who “waters” is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like **Apollos** continued to proclaim the gospel to the Corinthians. It is a well-known fact in Paul’s culture that plants grow because God enables them to do so, just like God enabled to the Corinthians to receive the gospel and learn more about God. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how the Corinthians received the Gospel would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I invested the money, Apollos managed the portfolio, but God gave the return on investment” or “I introduced you to the gospel, Apollos taught you more about the gospel, but God enabled you to believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 6 ic6x figs-ellipsis ἐγὼ ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ηὔξανεν. 1 Paul never states what it is that he **planted**, that **Apollos watered**, and that **God caused to grow**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is **planted** and **watered**, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “I planted the seeds, Apollos watered the plants, but God caused the them to grow” or “I planted the crop, Apollos watered it, but God caused it to grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 6 gyi5 translate-names Ἀπολλῶς 1 Apollos watered This is the name of a man. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)
1CO 3 6 iq9n grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς 1 but God gave the growth Here, Paul uses **but** to contrast himself and **Apollos** with **God**. The point is that what he did and what **Apollos** did are at the same level of importance, but God’s work is the most important. Another way to understand this contrast is to notice that Paul and **Apollos** assist in the process of plants growing, but **God** is the only one who actually makes them grow. Again, the main point is that Paul and **Apollos** are simply “servants” of God ([3:5](../03/05.md)) in a process that God oversees. If **but** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that puts Paul and **Apollos** together in contrast with **God**. Alternate translation: “planted, and Apollos watered. However, it was God who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 3 7 g78n grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε 1 Paul uses the word translated **so then** to introduce a conclusion or inference from what he said about watering, planting, and growth in [3:6](../03/06.md). Here, he wishes to explain that the difference between **God** who **causes the growth** and anyone who **plants** or **waters** is about their importance in the process. It is **God** who is important, because he is the only one who **causes the growth**, just as he stated in [3:6](../03/06.md). If that meaning of **so then** would be misunderstood in your language, you could a comparable word or phrase that introduces a conclusion or an inference. Alternate translation: “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 3 7 c4wy figs-exmetaphor οὔτε ὁ φυτεύων ἐστίν τι, οὔτε ὁ ποτίζων, ἀλλ’ ὁ αὐξάνων, Θεός. 1 Paul now speaks in general about the tasks that God has given to those who proclaim the gospel. He continues to speak as if those who proclaim the gospel were farmers who planted and watered their crops. The **one who plants** is the person who begins the farming process, just like the person who first proclaims the gospel. The **one who waters** is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like the person who continues to teach the gospel. It is a well-known fact in Paul’s culture that plants grow because God enables them to do so, just like God enables those who believe to receive the gospel and learn more about God. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how people proclaim the gospel and how God enables others to receive it would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “neither the one who invests the money nor the one who manages the portfolio is anything, but God {is} the one who gives the return on investment” or “neither the person who introduces believers to the gospel nor the person who teaches believers more about the gospel is anything, but God {is} the one who enables believers to have faith” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor)
1CO 3 7 dl3z figs-genericnoun ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 neither he who plants is anything … but God is the one who causes the growth When Paul speaks of **the one who plants**, he has himself in mind. When he speaks of **the one who waters**, he has Apollos in mind. This is clear from what he says in the last verse ([3:6](../03/06.md)). However, he is now speaking in more general terms. He does not mean just **one** person who does “planting” and one person who does “watering.” Rather, he wishes to refer to anyone who does either of these tasks. If the phrase **the one who** would not be understood to mean that in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to any person who does the task. Alternate translation: “any person who plants … any person who waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 3 7 uutk figs-ellipsis ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Paul never states what it is that someone **plants** and that someone else **waters**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is planted and watered, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “the one who plants the seeds … the one who waters the plants” or “the one who plants the crop … the one who waters it” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1CO 3 7 jrb1 figs-hyperbole τι 1 Here, the word translated **anything** is an exaggeration that emphasizes how unimportant the people who plant and water are. It is as if they are nothing, as if they do not exist. Paul does not mean that they do not exist. Instead, he uses this exaggeration to show how unimportant the people who plant and water are compared to God. If the meaning of **anything** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates “importance.” Alternate translation: “important” or “significant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 3 7 hmk6 figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ὁ αὐξάνων, Θεός. 1 Here, Paul does not directly finish the contrast between the people who plant and water and **God**. What he means is that **God** is the one who is important because he **causes the growth**. If the meaning of this contrast would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the words that Paul omits, including a word or phrase about how God is “important.”Alternate translation: “but God, who is the one who causes the growth, is the important one” or “but God is the significant one because he causes the growth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 7 c68g figs-abstractnouns αὐξάνων 1 but God is the one who causes the growth If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **growth** with a verb such as “grow.” Alternate translation: “who makes it grow” or “who causes things to grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 8 dmfs grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** introduces the next step in Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces the next step in an argument. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 8 s16b figs-exmetaphor ὁ φυτεύων…καὶ ὁ ποτίζων, ἕν εἰσιν; ἕκαστος δὲ τὸν ἴδιον μισθὸν λήμψεται, κατὰ τὸν ἴδιον κόπον. 1 he who plants and he who waters are one Here, Paul continues to speak as if those who proclaim the gospel were farmers who planted and watered their crops. The **one who plants** is the person who begins the farming process, just like the person who first proclaims the gospel. The **one who waters** is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like the person who continues to teach the gospel. The **one who plants** and the **one who waters** will receive **wages** that match the kind of **labor** they did. In the same way, those who first proclaim the gospel and those who teach more about the gospel will receive rewards from God that match the task they accomplished. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how people proclaim the gospel and how God rewards those who do so, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the one who invests the money and the one who manages the portfolio are one, and each will receive his own paycheck according to his own job” or “the person who introduces believers to the gospel and the person who teaches believers more about the gospel are one, and each will receive his own reward from God according to his own task” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor)
1CO 3 8 ydx8 figs-genericnoun ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Just as in [3:7](../03/07.md), when Paul speaks of **the one who plants**, he has himself in mind. When he speaks of **the one who waters**, he has Apollos in mind. This is clear from what he says in [3:6](../03/06.md). However, he is now speaking in more general terms. He does not mean just **one** person who does “planting” and one person who does “watering.” Rather, he wishes to refer to anyone who does either of these tasks. If the phrase **the one who** would not be understood to mean that in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to any person who does the task. Alternate translation: “any person who plants … any person who waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 3 8 fsj6 figs-ellipsis ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Paul never states what it is that someone **plants** and that someone else **waters**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is planted and watered, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “the one who plants the seeds … the one who waters the plants” or “the one who plants the crop … the one who waters it” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1CO 3 8 za43 figs-metaphor ἕν εἰσιν 1 are one Paul here speaks as if the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** are the same person. He speaks in this way in order to: (1) show that the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** do the same kind of work with the same goal in mind. Alternate translation: “share a common goal” or “do the same kind of work” (2) state that the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** have equal status. Alternate translation: “are of equal importance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 8 dfhn figs-gendernotations τὸν ἴδιον -1 Here, the words translated **his** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **his** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “his or her own … his or her own” or “that person’s own … that person’s own” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 3 9 vphl grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces a summary statement that concludes the whole section in which Paul compares those who proclaim the gospel to farmers ([3:5–8](../03/05–08.md)). If this meaning of **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a summary statement. Alternate translation: “Thus,” or “In the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 9 gj26 figs-exclusive ἐσμεν 1 we are brutally beaten Here, **we** refers to Paul, Apollos, and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 3 9 r9sn figs-possession Θεοῦ…συνεργοί 1 God’s fellow workers Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe: (1) **fellow workers** who work for **God**. Alternate translation: “coworkers under God’s leadership” (2) **workers** who join **God** in God’s work. Alternate translation: “people who work with God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 9 iaan figs-infostructure Θεοῦ γεώργιον, Θεοῦ οἰκοδομή ἐστε. 1 Here, Paul switches from a metaphor about farming to a metaphor about building. He makes this switch without using any connecting words, and he makes the switch within one sentence. Consider whether your language would include the introduction of a new topic at the end of the previous section or at the beginning of a new section, and put **God’s building** where it would be understood as introducing a new section, including **you are** again if it would be necessary. Additionally, if beginning a new section without using a connecting word or phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use such a word or phrase here. Alternate translation: “you are God’s field. In fact, you are also God’s building” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 9 lqg1 figs-metaphor Θεοῦ γεώργιον 1 God’s garden Here, Paul concludes the farming metaphor he began in [3:6](../03/06.md). He identifies the Corinthians as a **field** that is owned by **God**. It is in this field that those who proclaim the gospel “plant” and “water” the crop. By calling the Corinthians a **God’s field**, Paul means to say that they belong to God and that they are the people among whom those who proclaim the gospel work. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God’s portfolio” or “people who belong to God and among whom we work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 9 l2fq figs-exmetaphor Θεοῦ οἰκοδομή 1 God’s building Here, Paul introduces a new metaphor that compares the Corinthians to a building. This building belongs to God, and those who proclaim the gospel, including Paul, help to construct the building. He uses this metaphor and variations of it in [3:9–17](../03/09–17.md). Here, he calls the Corinthians **God’s building**, by which he means basically the same thing as when he calls them **God’s field**. They belong to God, and he and others who proclaim the gospel work among them. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God’s movie” or “people who belong to God and among whom we work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 10 iln9 figs-activepassive τοῦ Θεοῦ τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 According to the grace of God that was given to me If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “that God gave me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 10 a69q figs-exmetaphor ὡς σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων θεμέλιον ἔθηκα, ἄλλος δὲ ἐποικοδομεῖ. ἕκαστος δὲ βλεπέτω, πῶς ἐποικοδομεῖ. 1 I laid a foundation Paul began using the metaphor of a house in [3:9](../03/09.md). Here he continues that metaphor by speaking about himself as a **wise master builder** who lays **a foundation**. By speaking in this way, he means that he is the one who first introduced them to the gospel, just like a **master builder** first lays **a foundation**. He then speaks of people who build **on** that foundation. By speaking in this way, he means that others who proclaim more about the gospel can only do this by using and continuing from the good news that Paul already proclaimed. If this extended metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I proposed an idea for a movie as a skilled script writer, and another is filming that movie, but let each person be careful how they film that movie” or “as a wise church planter, I first proclaimed the gospel to you, and another is teaching you more about that gospel, but let each one be careful how he teaches you more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 10 nw8f figs-infostructure ὡς σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων θεμέλιον ἔθηκα 1 The phrase **as a wise master builder** could describe: (1) the way in which Paul **laid a foundation**. Alternate translation: “, I laid a foundation as a wise master builder” (2) the specific **grace** that God gave to Paul. Alternate translation: “to be a wise master builder, I laid a foundation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 10 mpxl translate-unknown σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων 1 Here, the word translated **master builder** refers to the person who is in charge of an entire construction project, including designing it and making sure that the building is constructing according to the design. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or phrase. Alternate translation: “a wise architect” or “a wise construction manager” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 10 mqb8 writing-pronouns ἄλλος…ἐποικοδομεῖ 1 Here, the word translated **another** refers to anyone who **is building on** the foundation, including Apollos. However, Paul does not mean to identify one specific person who **is building**. If it would be misunderstood that **another** refers to any builder, you could use a word or phrase that identifies any person who does a specific task. Alternate translation: “other people are building on it” or “someone else is building on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 10 pwi7 figs-imperative ἕκαστος…βλεπέτω 1 another is building on it Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “each one should be careful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 10 px9c writing-pronouns ἕκαστος 1 each man Here, the word translated **each one** refers to any person who **builds** on the **foundation**. If the meaning of **each one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies any person who falls into a certain category. Alternate translation: “every person who builds on it” or “each builder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 10 krd6 writing-pronouns ἐποικοδομεῖ 2 Here, the word translated **he** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “he or she builds on it” or “each one builds on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 11 m4j2 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **for** introduces the reason why the people who build on the foundation should “be careful how” they build “on it” ([3:10](../03/10.md)). They need to “be careful” because what they build must match the only **foundation** that exists, which is **Jesus Christ**. If **for** would not indicate this connection in your language, you could express the idea with a word that gives a reason or basis for a command. Alternate translation: “This is because” or “because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 3 11 qd1o figs-exmetaphor θεμέλιον…ἄλλον οὐδεὶς δύναται θεῖναι, παρὰ τὸν κείμενον, ὅς ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός. 1 In this verse, Paul continues the metaphor about houses by continuing to speak about a **foundation**. Here, he reminds the Corinthians that each house has only one **foundation**, and once that **foundation** has been **laid**, no one lays another **foundation** for the house. He speaks in this way to remind them that only one person can introduce them to the gospel, and anyone who tries to introduce them to another gospel is building a different house, not the same house. Paul then directly states that the **foundation** refers to the message about **Jesus Christ** that he preached to them. Paul speaks in this way to indicate that the message about **Jesus Christ** that he proclaimed to them should be the starting point and basis for everything else they learn about the gospel. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “no one can write a script other than the one that has already been written, that is, Jesus Christ” or “no one can first proclaim a gospel to you other than the one that I already proclaimed to you, which is Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 11 jt2b figs-activepassive τὸν κείμενον 1 no one can lay a foundation other than the one that has been laid If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with Paul as the person who is doing the “laying.” Alternate translation: “the one that I already laid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 11 yh1f ὅς ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός. 1 Alternate translation: “which is Jesus Christ” or (starting a new sentence) “That foundation is Jesus Christ”
1CO 3 11 azm0 figs-metonymy Ἰησοῦς Χριστός 1 Here, Paul uses the words translated **Jesus Christ** to refer to the message he proclaimed to them about **Jesus Christ**. If the meaning of **Jesus Christ** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a word or phrase that refers to Paul’s message about **Jesus Christ**. Alternate translation: “the good news about Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 3 12 nuza grammar-connect-words-phrases δέ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** introduces the next step in Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces the next step in an argument. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 12 nbu2 figs-exmetaphor εἰ…τις ἐποικοδομεῖ ἐπὶ τὸν θεμέλιον χρυσόν, ἄργυρον, λίθους τιμίους, ξύλα, χόρτον, καλάμην 1 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. He compares those who teach more about the gospel with builders who construct a house on its foundation. These builders can use a variety of different materials to construct the house, and Paul lists six. The first three, **gold, silver, precious stones**, are more durable, while the last three, **wood, hay, straw**, are less durable. It is clear that Paul is interested in durability because of the next verse, where he states that all of these materials will be tested with fire ([3:13](../03/13.md)). By speaking this way, he indicates that those who proclaim more about the gospel can teach things that are more or less true and acceptable to God. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “if anyone films the movie with expensive and sturdy cameras and film or with cheap and fragile cameras and film” or “if anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are acceptable to God or words that are not acceptable to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 12 f8oa grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…τις ἐποικοδομεῖ ἐπὶ τὸν θεμέλιον 1 Here, Paul uses a conditional **if**, but he does not think that this is a hypothetical situation or something that is likely not true. Instead, Paul thinks that people are “building” on the foundation, and he wants to talk about how they are doing so. Additionally, the “then” part of the **if** statement does not begin until the next verse. If this form and structure would be misunderstood in your language, you could rephrase the condition into a circumstance or an assumption. Alternate translation: “people build on the foundation, using” or “when anyone builds on the foundation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 3 12 tzgf translate-unknown χρυσόν, ἄργυρον, λίθους τιμίους, ξύλα, χόρτον, καλάμην, 1 These six things are all materials that could be used in constructing buildings. The first three will survive if the building catches on fire, but the last three will not (for the fire, see [3:13–15](../03/13–15.md)). In your culture, you may not use all of these materials for constructing buildings. In that case, you could include just some of these materials or include materials that you do use for constructing buildings in your culture, making sure to include some materials will not burn up and others that will burn up. Alternate translation: “steel, concrete, lumber, or cloth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 13 ndu3 figs-exmetaphor ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον φανερὸν γενήσεται; ἡ γὰρ ἡμέρα δηλώσει, ὅτι ἐν πυρὶ ἀποκαλύπτεται; καὶ ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον, ὁποῖόν ἐστιν, τὸ πῦρ αὐτὸ δοκιμάσει 1 For it will be revealed in fire. The fire will test the quality of what each one had done Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. He speaks as if **the day** of God’s judgment is like a fire that **will test** the building and show what kind of building materials the builders used. Paul speaks in this way to illustrate how God’s judgment will reveal whether what those who proclaim more about the gospel teach is pleasing to him or not. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the work of each one will become evident, for opening night will display it; for opening night always draws critics, and the critics will test of what value is the work of each one” or “the truth of what each one has taught you will become evident, for God will show how true it is when he comes to judge everyone; when he comes, he will judge everyone, and his judgment will reveal whether what each person has taught is true or not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 13 wv4h figs-synecdoche ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “what each one has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 13 t2mk figs-activepassive ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον φανερὸν γενήσεται 1 his work will be revealed If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea using words such as “God will reveal.” Alternate translation: “God will reveal the work of each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 13 mv14 figs-explicit ἡ…ἡμέρα δηλώσει 1 for the daylight will reveal it Here, Paul uses the word translated **day** in the same way the Old Testament uses it: to refer to an event in which God saves his people and punishes his enemies. Paul specifically refers to the event in which Jesus returns to judge everyone. If that meaning of **day** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include more words that clarify what Paul means by **day**. Alternate translation: “the day of Christ’s return will display” or “when Christ returns, he will display it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 13 lyny figs-activepassive ἐν πυρὶ ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God reveals it in fire”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 13 x48s writing-pronouns ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 Here, **it** refers to **the day**. It does not refer to the **work**. If the meaning of **it** would be misunderstood in your language, you clarify that **it** refers to **the day**. Alternate translation: “that day is revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 13 ozx6 ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the day **is revealed** right now. In his language, he can use the present tense to speak about the way in which something happens in general, even if it is not happening in the present moment. If this use of the present tense would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using the future tense. Alternate translation: “it will be revealed”
1CO 3 13 rgfy ἐν πυρὶ 1 Alternate translation: “with fire” or “in a fiery way”
1CO 3 14 wexj figs-hypo εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον μενεῖ, ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν, μισθὸν λήμψεται. 1 Here and in [3:15](../03/15.md), Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person’s **work** might remain, or it might not. He then specifies the result for each possibility. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Anyone whose work that he built will remain will receive a reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 14 ygva figs-exmetaphor εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον μενεῖ, ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν, μισθὸν λήμψεται. 1 Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. In this verse, he notes that builders whose structures survive a fire receive rewards. He speaks in this way to indicate that God will reward those who proclaim more about the gospel if God finds their teachings to be accurate and acceptable to him when he judges everyone. The **reward** includes public recognition and other blessings. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone's film that he created receives good reviews on opening night, he will receive an award” or “If anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are acceptable to God, he will be honored by God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 14 iddt figs-explicitinfo τινος τὸ ἔργον…ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν 1 Here, Paul speaks both of **work** and what **he built**. If using both of these terms would be misunderstood or redundant in your language, you could combine the ideas into one expression. Alternate translation: “anyone’s building project” or “what anyone built” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 3 14 s4u3 figs-synecdoche τὸ ἔργον 1 work remains Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “project” or “house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 14 ge6s figs-gendernotations τινος…ἐποικοδόμησεν…λήμψεται 1 Here, the word translated **he** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “anyone’s … he or she built … he or she will receive” or “people’s … they built … they will receive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 15 vax6 figs-hypo εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται, ζημιωθήσεται 1 Here, just as in [3:14](../03/14.md), Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person’s work might remain, or it might not. He then specifies the result for each possibility. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Anyone whose work will be burned up will suffer loss” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 15 ysjz figs-exmetaphor εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται, ζημιωθήσεται; αὐτὸς δὲ σωθήσεται, οὕτως δὲ ὡς διὰ πυρός. 1 Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. In this verse, he notes that builders whose structures do not survive a fire **suffer loss**. The builders themselves do not die, but they are in trouble, almost as if they were in the building and barely escaped as it burned to the ground. Paul speaks in this way to indicate that God will not reward those who proclaim more about the gospel if God finds their teachings to be inaccurate and unacceptable to him when he judges everyone. The **loss** includes lack of honor and rewards from God. However, those who proclaim more about God in inaccurate and unacceptable ways are not condemned to punishment by God. Instead, just like someone escaping from a burning building, they are just barely accepted by God. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone's film that he created receives bad reviews on opening night, he will lose money on the film, but he himself will not face financial ruin, but as though through bankruptcy” or “If anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are not acceptable to God, he will receive no honor or blessing when God judges everyone, but he himself will be accepted by God, although just barely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 15 c2xj figs-activepassive τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται 1 if anyone’s work is burned up If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with “fire” as the subject. Alternate translation: “fire burns up anyone’s work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 15 fyfr figs-activepassive τὸ ἔργον 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “project” or “house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 15 b2l8 figs-gendernotations τινος…ζημιωθήσεται…αὐτὸς…σωθήσεται 1 Here, the words translated **he** and **himself** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** and **himself** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “anyone’s … he or she will suffer loss … he himself or she herself will be saved” or “people’s … they will suffer loss … they themselves will be saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 15 ups4 translate-unknown ζημιωθήσεται 1 he will suffer loss The phrase **he will suffer loss** expresses the opposite of “receiving a reward.” Instead of gaining honor and money, the person loses honor and money. If the phrase **he will suffer loss** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase that refers to losing honor and money. Alternate translation: “he will lose honor and money” or “he will be deprived of any reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 15 w1zv figs-activepassive αὐτὸς δὲ σωθήσεται 1 but he himself will be saved If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with **he** saving **himself** or **he** not perishing. Alternate translation: “but he will save himself” or “but he will not perish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 16 uq2g figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐστε, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ οἰκεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν? 1 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that the Spirit of God lives in you? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing by reminding them of something that they should already know. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “you know that you are a temple of God, and you know that the Spirit of God lives in you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 16 yc1g figs-exmetaphor οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐστε, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ οἰκεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν? 1 Here, Paul develops the metaphor about constructing a building in a new way. First, he says that the Corinthians together are **a temple of God**, which is a specific type of building. The **temple of God** was the place where God was present in a special way. Paul is thus identifying the Corinthians as people among whom God is present in the same kind of special way. Second, he says that the Corinthians together are the house or city in which the **Spirit of God lives**. The house or city in which someone lives is where they are always present. Paul is thus saying that the Holy Spirit is always present with the Corinthians. If the meaning of Paul’s metaphors would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “Do you not know that you are the sacred shrine where God dwells, and you are the country in which the Spirit of God has residency?” or “Do you not know that God is present among you, and the Spirit of God is always with you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 17 pc0d figs-exmetaphor εἴ τις τὸν ναὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ φθείρει, φθερεῖ τοῦτον ὁ Θεός; ὁ γὰρ ναὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ ἅγιός ἐστιν, οἵτινές ἐστε ὑμεῖς. 1 Here, Paul finishes the metaphor about the temple that he began in [3:16](../03/16.md). He notes that, because God’s temple is **holy**, God will **destroy** anyone who **destroys** the temple. He then again repeats that the Corinthians **are** the temple. By speaking in this way, Paul wishes to remind everyone among the Corinthian believers that “destroying” the unity of the believers is like “destroying” the **temple**, and God will act in response to this like he would if someone “destroyed” his **temple**. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone desecrates God’s sacred shrine, God will punish that person. For the sacred shrine is holy, and you are God’s sacred shrine” or “If anyone divides the place of God’s presence, God will punish that person. For wherever God’s presence can be found is holy, and you are the place where God’s presence can be found” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 17 pv8w figs-hypo εἴ τις τὸν ναὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ φθείρει, φθερεῖ τοῦτον ὁ Θεός 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person might destroy God’s temple, or that person might not. He then specifies the result for if someone does destroy God’s temple. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “God will destroy anyone who destroys the temple of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 17 vcuv writing-pronouns οἵτινές ἐστε ὑμεῖς 1 Here, the word translated **which** could refer to: (1) **the temple of God**. Alternate translation: “which temple you are” (2) **holy**. Alternate translation: “and you too are holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 18 glg8 figs-imperative μηδεὶς ἑαυτὸν ἐξαπατάτω…μωρὸς γενέσθω 1 Let no one deceive himself In this verse, Paul uses two third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use them here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the ideas using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “No one should deceive himself … he should become a ‘fool’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 18 s57s figs-gendernotations μηδεὶς ἑαυτὸν ἐξαπατάτω; εἴ τις δοκεῖ σοφὸς εἶναι ἐν ὑμῖν ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ, μωρὸς γενέσθω, ἵνα γένηται σοφός. 1 Here, the words translated **himself**, **he**, and **him** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **himself**, **he**, and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using words that do not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “Let no one deceive himself or herself. If anyone among you thinks he or she is wise in this age, let him or her become a ‘fool,’ that he or she may become wise” or “Let no people deceive themselves. If any people among you think they are wise in this age, them become ‘fools,’ that they may become wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 18 p3wi figs-hypo εἴ τις δοκεῖ σοφὸς εἶναι ἐν ὑμῖν ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ, μωρὸς γενέσθω 1 in this age Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person might think that **he is wise**, or that person might not think this. He then specifies the result for if someone does think that **he is wise**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Let whoever among you thinks he is wise in this age become a ‘fool’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 18 p53y ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ 1 Alternate translation: “according to the standards of this age”
1CO 3 18 s7xi figs-irony μωρὸς γενέσθω, ἵνα γένηται σοφός 1 let him become a “fool” Here, Paul commands any **wise** person among the Corinthians to become a **fool**. He does not actually think that doing what he commands makes a person a **fool**, which is why **fool** appears in quotation marks. Rather, he knows that many will call doing what he commands becoming a **fool**. To make this clearer, he then says that becoming what many will call **a “fool”** will actually lead to becoming truly **wise**. If Paul’s use of the word **fool** would be misunderstood by your readers, you could use a form in your language that indicates that Paul is speaking from the perspective of other people. Alternate translation: “let him become a so-called ‘fool,’ that he may become truly wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 3 18 pvt3 translate-grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, the word translated **that** introduces the goal or purpose for which a person should **become a “fool”**. If the meaning of **that** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces a goal or purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 3 19 m0gd figs-possession ἡ…σοφία τοῦ κόσμου τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **this world** considers to be **wisdom**. If **the wisdom of this world** would be not be understood in your language as **wisdom** from the perspective of **this world**, you could use a different form that makes this meaning clear. Alternate translation: “what this world considers to be wisdom” or “worldly wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 19 uqb3 figs-idiom παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ 1 Here, Paul uses the phrase **with God** to identify God’s perspective. If **with God** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that identifies that this is **foolishness** according to how God views the world. Alternate translation: “from God’s perspective” or “in God’s eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 19 ayvv writing-quotations γέγραπται γάρ 1 In Paul’s culture, **For it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book titled “Job.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For it can be read in the Old Testament” or “For the book of Job says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 3 19 zws3 figs-quotations γέγραπται…ὁ δρασσόμενος τοὺς σοφοὺς ἐν τῇ πανουργίᾳ αὐτῶν 1 He catches the wise in their craftiness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “it is written that God catches the wise in their craftiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 3 19 wxz2 figs-metaphor δρασσόμενος τοὺς σοφοὺς ἐν τῇ πανουργίᾳ αὐτῶν 1 Here, Paul speaks as if God reaches out and grabs **the wise** as they act in **craftiness**. By speaking in this way, he means that even “crafty” or clever people cannot avoid God when he wishes to “catch” them. God is not deceived, and he can disrupt their clever plans. If **catches** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “interrupts the clever plans of the wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 19 j0ga figs-nominaladj τοὺς σοφοὺς 1 Paul is using the adjective **wise** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “wise people” or “those who are wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 19 x6ts figs-abstractnouns τῇ πανουργίᾳ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **craftiness** by using a phrase such as “crafty plans” or “clever planning.” Alternate translation: “crafty plans” or “clever planning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 20 n5pu writing-quotations καὶ πάλιν 1 In Paul’s culture, **And again** is a normal way to introduce another quotation from an important text that supports the same point. In this case, Paul quotes from the Old Testament book titled “Psalms.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is introducing another quotation from an important text. Alternate translation: “It can be read in another place in the Old Testament” or “And the book of Psalms also says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 3 20 la6x figs-quotations Κύριος γινώσκει τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν, ὅτι εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 The Lord knows that the reasoning of the wise is futile If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that the Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are futile” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 3 20 gvyq figs-explicitinfo γινώσκει τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν, ὅτι εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 If the form **the reasonings of the wise, that they** would be redundant in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “knows that the reasonings of the wise are futile” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 3 20 ot38 figs-abstractnouns τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **reasonings** with a verb such as “reason” or “plan.” Alternate translation: “the things that the wise reason” or “the things that the wise plan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 20 tlk9 figs-nominaladj τῶν σοφῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **wise** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “of wise people” or “of those who are wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 20 kz2u εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 futile Alternate translation: “they will come to nothing” or “they are worthless”
1CO 3 21 molu figs-imperative μηδεὶς καυχάσθω ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “no one should boast in men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 21 xyti figs-idiom μηδεὶς καυχάσθω ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 The phrase **boast in men** means that a person is boasting “about” humans. If **boast in** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that clarifies that the “boasting” has **men** as its content. Alternate translation: “let no one boast about men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 21 k9i3 figs-explicit ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 The next verse makes it clear that here Paul specifically has leaders in mind. He wishes to tell the Corinthians that they should not boast about having a specific leader that they follow. If this meaning of **in men** would not be understood in your language, you could include some words that clarify that it refers to following leaders. Alternate translation: “in men that they follow” or “in men whose group they are part of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 21 ogfq figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the word translated men is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “in people” or “in men or women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 21 g0hr figs-explicit πάντα…ὑμῶν ἐστιν 1 Here, **all things are yours** also implies that **boasting in men** is foolish. If the Corinthians have everything, then boasting about following a specific leader does not make sense. All the Corinthians have all the leaders, and much more beyond that (see [3:22](../03/22.md)). If it would be misunderstood in your language that **all things are yours** implies these conclusions, you could include a phrase that states these conclusions. Alternate translation: “all things are yours, including all leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 lrlg translate-names Παῦλος…Ἀπολλῶς…Κηφᾶς 1 These are the names of three men. They are the same men who were mentioned in [1:12](../01/12.md) as leaders whom the Corinthians were claiming to follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 3 22 x1w6 εἴτε Παῦλος, εἴτε Ἀπολλῶς, εἴτε Κηφᾶς, εἴτε κόσμος, εἴτε ζωὴ, εἴτε θάνατος, εἴτε ἐνεστῶτα, εἴτε μέλλοντα; 1 Paul does not want his readers to think that this list tells the Corinthians everything that they have. Rather, he uses the list to give examples. If the use of this list would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a word or phrase that shows that the list gives examples. Alternate translation: “including Paul and Apollos and Cephas and the world and life and death and things present and things to come”
1CO 3 22 o3k5 figs-explicit εἴτε ζωὴ, εἴτε θάνατος 1 When Paul says that **life** and **death** are theirs, he means that neither **life** nor **death** has control over the Corinthians. Rather, they have control over **life** and **death**. What this means is that they can live their lives without being afraid of what will happen while they are alive or afraid of losing their lives when they die. If the meaning of the **life** and **death** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add some words that clarify their meaning. Alternate translation: “or confidence in life or peace in death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 pyir figs-explicit εἴτε ἐνεστῶτα, εἴτε μέλλοντα 1 Here, Paul refers to **things present** because it refers to what was happening at the time when Paul wrote this letter. On the other hand, **things to come** refers to what is going to happen in the future, specifically when Jesus comes back. The **things present** is the way the world works right now. The **things to come** is the way the world will work when Jesus returns. If the meaning of these phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could add some words that clarify their meaning. Alternate translation: “or the current order or the order that Jesus will bring” or “or what happens now or what will happen soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 jt0x figs-infostructure πάντα ὑμῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the same phrase he used at the end of [3:21](../03/21.md): **all things are yours**. He repeats the phrase here to explain that the list provides examples of **all things** and also to introduce the point he is about to make in the next verse. Because **all things are yours** ends the list and also introduces the next idea, the ULT begins a new sentence with **all things are yours**. Use whatever form in your language most clearly identifies a conclusion that also introduces the next statement. Alternate translation: “Thus, all things are yours,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 23 nj48 figs-possession ὑμεῖς…Χριστοῦ 1 you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s Here, Paul uses the possessive form to show the Corinthians that they belong to Christ. If the meaning of this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “belong to” or a verb such as “has.” Alternate translation: “you belong to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 23 dc6v figs-possession Χριστὸς…Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to show the Corinthians that **Christ** belongs to who **God** is. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “belongs to” or a verb such as “includes.”Alternate translation: “Christ belongs to God” or “who God is includes Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 intro vg5z 0 # 1 Corinthians 4 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Pride<br><br>Paul contrasts the Corinthians being proud with the apostles being humble. The Corinthian believers had no reason to be proud. All that they had, and all they were, was a gift from God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/apostle]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>Paul uses many metaphors in this chapter. He describes the apostles as servants. Paul speaks of a victory parade where the apostles are the prisoners who will be killed. He uses a rod to stand for punishment. He calls himself their father because he is their “spiritual father.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br><br>### Irony<br><br>Paul uses irony to shame the Corinthians for being proud. The Corinthian believers are reigning but the apostles are suffering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize important points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 4 1 nkda figs-explicitinfo οὕτως ἡμᾶς λογιζέσθω ἄνθρωπος ὡς 1 If the form **In this manner let a man regard us: as** would be redundant in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “Let a man regard us as” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo)
1CO 4 1 k1v5 figs-imperative ἡμᾶς λογιζέσθω ἄνθρωπος 1 Connecting Statement: Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “a man should regard us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 4 1 xt4u figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπος 1 Although the word translated **man** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “man or woman” or “human” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 4 1 fk8c figs-genericnoun ἄνθρωπος 1 Paul uses the word **man** to speak of people in general, not one specific person. If the meaning of **man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “everybody” or “any person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 4 1 px42 figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** refers to Paul, Apollos, and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 1 if6t figs-possession οἰκονόμους μυστηρίων Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **stewards** who are in charge of **the mysteries of God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “manage” or “oversee.” Alternate translation: “stewards who manage the mysteries of God” or “stewards who oversee the mysteries of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 1 duab figs-possession μυστηρίων Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **mysteries** that are: (1) revealed by **God**. Alternate translation: “of the mysteries given by God” or “of the mysteries from God” (2) about **God**. Alternate translation: “of the mysteries about God” or “of the mysteries concerning God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 2 th8e grammar-connect-words-phrases ὧδε λοιπὸν 1 what is required of stewards Here, Paul uses the phrase **In this case** to introduce further information about what it means to be **stewards**. Since he is talking about himself and others who proclaim the gospel as **stewards**, it is important to understand what it is that **stewards** are **required** to do. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces more information about a topic. Alternate translation: “Now” or “Speaking of stewards,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 2 de61 figs-explicit ζητεῖται ἐν τοῖς οἰκονόμοις, ἵνα πιστός τις εὑρεθῇ 1 While Paul does not directly apply this sentence to himself and others who proclaim the gospel, it is clear that he intends the reader to apply it to him and these others. Paul then means that he and others who proclaim the gospel are required to do so faithfully by God. If this implication would not be understood by your readers, you could a word or phrase that makes it clear by identifying Paul as one of the stewards. Alternate translation: “it is required in stewards like us that we be found faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 2 qek0 figs-activepassive ζητεῖται 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague subject or “masters” as the subject. Alternate translation: “people require” or “a master requires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 2 dpeo figs-activepassive πιστός τις εὑρεθῇ 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague subject or “masters” as the subject. Alternate translation: “people find one faithful” or “a master finds one faithful”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 2 yesr writing-pronouns τις 1 Here, Paul uses **one** to refer to any of the **stewards**. If **one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a plural pronoun such as “they.” Alternate translation: “they” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 3 t133 ἐμοὶ…ἐστιν 1 Alternate translation: “I consider it” or “from my perspective”
1CO 4 3 fspp figs-idiom εἰς ἐλάχιστόν ἐστιν 1 When Paul says that **it is a very small thing** for him to **be examined**, what he means is that their “examination” of him is unimportant to him. Whether they think he has been faithful or not does not matter to him at all. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “it is no big deal” or “it has no significance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 3 k6nc figs-activepassive ὑφ’ ὑμῶν ἀνακριθῶ, ἢ ὑπὸ ἀνθρωπίνης ἡμέρας; 1 it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “you or a human court would examine me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 3 l2tt translate-unknown ἀνθρωπίνης ἡμέρας 1 Here, the words translated **a human court** refer to an official legal proceeding where whether Paul was faithful or not could be judged by those in charge. Here, he uses the words primarily to refer to any people who are in charge of this legal proceeding. If this language would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to an official meeting to decide whether someone is innocent or guilty or a word or phrase that refers to who is in charge at such a meeting. Alternate translation: “a court of law” or “a human jury” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 3 skwh grammar-connect-words-phrases ἀλλ’ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces an even stronger statement about how little Paul cares about being **examined** by humans. He cares so little that he does not even **examine** himself. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that normally introduces a further, stronger statement. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 4 u9jd figs-idiom οὐδὲν…ἐμαυτῷ σύνοιδα 1 I am not aware of any charge being made against me Paul says that he is **aware of nothing against** himself. By this, he means that he does not know about anything that could be used to accuse him. He is not aware of anything he has done wrong. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I have a clear conscience” or “I cannot think of any wrong things I have done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 4 h3wl figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐν τούτῳ δεδικαίωμαι; 1 that does not mean I am innocent. It is the Lord who judges me If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “this does not justify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 4 bulo writing-pronouns τούτῳ 1 The word translated **this** refers back to the whole idea that Paul is **aware of nothing against** himself. If the meaning of **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers back to the whole previous statement. Alternate translation: “what I am aware of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 4 hjob grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Paul uses the word translated **but** to introduce a contrast with everyone else who might “examine” Paul (see [4:3–4](../04/03.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a contrast with several previous statements. Alternate translation: “Instead,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 4 4 f6bb ὁ…ἀνακρίνων με Κύριός ἐστιν. 1 Alternate translation: “the Lord is the one who judges me”
1CO 4 5 qi3g figs-explicitinfo πρὸ καιροῦ…ἕως ἂν ἔλθῃ ὁ Κύριος 1 Therefore If the form **before the time, until the Lord comes** contains redundant information that would be unnatural to state in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “before the Lord comes” or “until the Lord comes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 4 5 wl3i figs-metaphor ὃς καὶ φωτίσει τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the purposes of the heart Here, Paul speaks as if **the Lord** will bring a flashlight or torch when he comes, and he will use that torch or flashlight to shine **light** on things that are currently **hidden** in the **darkness**. By speaking in this way, Paul means that **the Lord** will reveal what no person knows right now. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who will both disclose what people do not know about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 5 dcje figs-possession τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are **hidden** in **darkness**. If the **hidden things** would not be understood to be in **darkness** in your language, you could express the idea by using a word such “in” or “within.” Alternate translation: “the things hidden in darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 5 ywuk figs-abstractnoun τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 If your language does not use the abstract noun **darkness**, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes something that cannot be seen because there is no light, such as “in shadow.” Alternate translation: “the hidden things in shadow” or “the things hidden where no light shines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 5 spwh figs-possession τὰς βουλὰς τῶν καρδιῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **purposes** that come from or are created in **the hearts**. If it would be misunderstood in your language that **the purposes** are located in **the hearts**, you could express the idea by using a word such as “from” or “in.” Alternate translation: “the purposes in the hearts” or “the purposes from the hearts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 5 tgdg translate-unknown τὰς βουλὰς 1 Here, **purposes** refers to how humans have specific goals in mind and plan ways of attaining those goals. If the meaning of **purposes** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “plans” or “intentions.”Alternate translation: “the plans” or “the intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 5 tgox figs-metonymy τῶν καρδιῶν 1 In Paul’s culture, **hearts** are the places where humans think and plan. If that meaning of **hearts** would be misunderstood in your language, you could refer to the place where humans think in your culture or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “of the minds” or “that humans plan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 4 5 pw6r figs-idiom ὁ ἔπαινος γενήσεται ἑκάστῳ ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **praise** were something that could **come** or travel from **God** to humans. Paul means that **God** is the source of the **praise** that **each one** will receive. If the meaning of this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could make **God** the person who gives the **praise**. Alternate translation: “God will give praise to each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 5 kcya figs-explicit ὁ ἔπαινος γενήσεται ἑκάστῳ ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul seems to say that every person will receive some **praise** from **God**. However, Paul does not mean this. Instead, he only gives the example of the person who has been faithful to God, not the example of the person who has not been faithful to God. If using only one example would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that this example is only about those who are faithful, or you could include the opposite example about those who have been unfaithful. Alternate translation: “the praise from God will come to each faithful one” or “the praise and blame from God will come to teach one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 6 agfz writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 The word translated **these things** refers back to everything Paul has said about himself and Apollos in [3:4–23](../03/04.md). If what **these things** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers to what Paul has said about farming and building. Alternate translation: “what I have said about farming and building” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 6 ijn5 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 4 6 xxp2 translate-names Ἀπολλῶν 1 This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 4 6 ymxi figs-exclusive ἡμῖν 1 Here, the word **us** refers to Paul and Apollos only. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 6 ziz9 figs-quotations μάθητε, τό μὴ ὑπὲρ ἃ γέγραπται 1 for your sakes If you your language does not use this form, you could translate this statement as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “you might learn not to go beyond what is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 4 6 o02a figs-explicit τό μὴ ὑπὲρ ἃ γέγραπται, 1 Here, Paul quotes a short phrase that is not from the Old Testament but that would have been well-known to the Corinthians. The phrase **what is written** could refer to: (1) the Old Testament scriptures. Paul is telling the Corinthians that they should only act in ways that the Old Testament approves of. Alternate translation: “Not beyond what the scriptures say” (2) general principles of life that everyone knows about. Paul is telling the Corinthians that they should only act in ways that are generally approved and accepted. Alternate translation: “Not beyond proper standards” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 6 hk55 figs-infostructure ἵνα 2 The statement introduced by **so that** could be the purpose of (1) learning that they should not go **beyond what is written**. Alternate translation: “with the goal that” (2) Paul applying **these things** to himself and Apollos. Alternate translation: “so that, in the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 6 e79m figs-activepassive μὴ εἷς…φυσιοῦσθε 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with **no one** as the subject and the object. Alternate translation: “no one would puff himself or herself up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 6 hjfu writing-pronouns τοῦ ἑνὸς…τοῦ ἑτέρου 1 The words translated **the one** and **the other** refer to any specific leaders the Corinthians might praise or blame. Perhaps Paul specifically has himself and Apollos in mind, but he intentionally uses words that would include any leader whom the Corinthians could praise or blame. If the meaning of **the one** and **the other** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that indicates that Paul is speaking generally of any leaders here. Alternate translation: “of any leader … any other leader” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 7 fnu3 figs-yousingular σε…ἔχεις…ἔλαβες…ἔλαβες…καυχᾶσαι…λαβών 1 between you … do you have that you did not … you have freely … do you boast … you had not In this verse, Paul uses the singular form for **you**. He does this in order to directly address each specific person among the Corinthian believers. In the next verse, he again uses the plural form of “you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 4 7 gtb5 figs-rquestion τίς…σε διακρίνει? 1 For who makes you superior? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no one.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “there is no one who makes you superior.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 r6yw figs-rquestion τί…ἔχεις ὃ οὐκ ἔλαβες? 1 What do you have that you did not freely receive? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “nothing.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “there is nothing that you have that you did not receive.” or “you received everything that you have.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 eixw grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ δὲ καὶ ἔλαβες 1 Paul is speaking as if “receiving it” were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “And since you indeed received it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 4 7 e8l2 figs-rquestion τί καυχᾶσαι ὡς μὴ λαβών? 1 why do you boast as if you had not done so? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. Here, there is no answer to the question, since that is exactly Paul’s point. There is no reason for them to **boast**. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an imperative or a “should” statement. Alternate translation: “do not boast as if you did not receive it.” or “you should not boast as if you did not receive it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 p0hg writing-pronouns ἔλαβες…λαβών 2 Here, both uses of **it** refer back to **what** the Corinthians **have**. If your language does not use **it** to refer to an unstated “thing,” you could use a word or phrase that does refer clearly back to **what** the Corinthians **have**. Alternate translation: “you received everything …you did … receive everything” or “you received what you have … you did … receive what you have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 8 yp8s figs-irony ἤδη κεκορεσμένοι ἐστέ, ἤδη ἐπλουτήσατε, χωρὶς ἡμῶν ἐβασιλεύσατε 1 General Information: With these statements, Paul is stating what he thinks the Corinthians would say about themselves. He does not mean that he believes that these things are true. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could include some words that clarify that Paul is speaking from the Corinthians’s perspective, such as “it is as if” or “you say.” Alternate translation: “Already it is as if you are satisfied! Already it is as if you have become rich! It is as if you began to reign apart from us” or “Already you say that you are satisfied! Already you say that you have become rich! You say that you have begun to reign apart from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 8 v77u figs-metaphor κεκορεσμένοι ἐστέ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians have had more than enough food to eat and beverages to drink. By this, he means that (they think that) they have so many spiritual blessings that there are no more that they can receive. If the meaning of **satisfied** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you are stuffed with blessings” or “you have every spiritual gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 8 uc7s figs-metaphor ἐπλουτήσατε 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians have become wealthy people. He speaks in this way to again emphasize that (they think that) they have more spiritual blessings than they need. If the meaning of **become rich** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you have become fat” or “you have an excess of spiritual gifts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 8 mpir figs-exclusive ἡμῶν…ἡμεῖς 1 Here, **us** and **we** refer to Paul and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 9 bb41 grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 God has put us apostles on display Here, the word translated **For** introduces evidence that Paul and the other apostles are not “reigning” right now. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a contrast word such as “rather” or use a word or phrase that indicates that this sentence provides evidence that Paul is not “reigning.”Alternate translation: “Rather,” or “You can tell we are not reigning, since” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 9 v0bg translate-unknown δοκῶ 1 Here, the word translated **I think** introduces Paul’s own opinion of what he and other **apostles** are meant to do and experience. If the meaning of **I think** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a person’s interpretation or opinion. Alternate translation: “in my opinion,” or “it seems to me that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 9 lz8v figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς…ἐγενήθημεν 1 Here, **we** and **us** refer to Paul and his fellow apostles. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 9 vfq3 figs-metaphor ἡμᾶς τοὺς ἀποστόλους ἐσχάτους ἀπέδειξεν, ὡς ἐπιθανατίους 1 has put us apostles on display Here, Paul uses a metaphor that identifies himself and other apostles as those who receive public humiliation and are put to death. The metaphor itself: (1) could refer to a Roman gladiatorial contest. The apostles, then, would be **exhibited** in the arena as part of the **last** event. As those who are **sentenced to death**, they would then die in this last event. Alternate translation: “has exhibited us apostles in the last event of the gladiatorial games, in which we are destined to die” (2) could refer to a victory parade. The apostles, then, would be **exhibited** at the end of the parade, or **last**. As the **last** prisoners, they are **sentenced to death**, and will be killed soon after the parade ends. Alternate translation: “has exhibited us apostles at the end of the victory parade, in the place where prisoners who are sentenced to death march” (3) could be misunderstood in your language. If this is the case, you could express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “has chosen us apostles to be humiliated, and we are destined to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 9 ayu9 translate-unknown ἐσχάτους 1 The word translated **last of all** could identify: (1) the time when the **apostles** are **exhibited**, which would be as the last event held in the arena. Alternate translation: “at the end” (2) the place where the **apostles** are **exhibited**, which would be at the end of the victory parade. Alternate translation: “last in line” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 9 e4i1 figs-metaphor θέατρον ἐγενήθημεν τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ ἀγγέλοις καὶ ἀνθρώποις 1 Here, Paul speaks as if he and other apostles were part of a gladiatorial game or a theatrical show. He speaks in this way to show that the humiliation and death he and other apostles suffer happens in public, with everyone watching to see what happens. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “we live in full view of the world—both of angels and of men” or “we undergo these things publicly, before the world—both angels and men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 9 cqh4 figs-infostructure τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ ἀγγέλοις καὶ ἀνθρώποις 1 to the world—to angels, and to human beings This structure could mean that: (1) Paul wants to define the **world** as **angels** and **men**. Alternate translation: “to the world, that is, both to angels and to men” (2) Paul is listing three different things. Alternate translation: “to the world, to angels, and to men.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 9 d8da figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “to men and women” or “to people” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations)
1CO 4 10 ds54 figs-ellipsis ἡμεῖς μωροὶ διὰ Χριστόν, ὑμεῖς δὲ φρόνιμοι ἐν Χριστῷ; ἡμεῖς ἀσθενεῖς, ὑμεῖς δὲ ἰσχυροί; ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄτιμοι 1 In Paul’s language, he did not need to include the word translated **{are}**. However, many languages, including English, must add **{are}**, which is why the ULT includes it in brackets. If your language would not use **{are}** here, you could leave it unexpressed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 4 10 johq figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς -1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and the other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 10 fkw2 figs-irony ἡμεῖς μωροὶ…ἡμεῖς ἀσθενεῖς…ἡμεῖς…ἄτιμοι 1 We are fools … in dishonor With these statements, Paul identifies what he and the other apostles are like from the perspective of this world. They are **fools**, **weak**, and **dishonored**. Paul does know that from God’s perspective they are actually “wise,” “strong,” and “honored.” However, he speaks from the perspective of this world to help the Corinthians change their thinking. Instead of wanting to be **wise**, **strong**, and **honored**, the Corinthians need to realize that following God will instead make them appear to this world as **fools**, **weak**, and **dishonored**. If the meaning of these statements would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that clarifies that they are spoken from a different perspective. Alternate translation: “We {seem to be} fools … We {seem to be} weak … we {seem to be} dishonored” or “According to the world, we {are} fools … According to the word, we {are} weak …according to the world, we {are} dishonored’ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 10 ufj2 figs-irony ὑμεῖς δὲ φρόνιμοι…ὑμεῖς δὲ ἰσχυροί…ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι 1 With these statements, Paul identifies what the Corinthians think about themselves. They think they are **wise**, **strong**, and **honored** from the perspective of this world. Paul contrasts what the Corinthians think about themselves and how he and other apostles look from the world’s perspective in order to make the Corinthians reconsider what they think about themselves. If these statements would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies that they are spoken from the perspective of the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “but you consider yourselves wise … but you consider yourselves strong … You consider yourselves honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 10 wqh7 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 You are held in honor Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) the means by which God has made the Corinthians **wise**. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ” (2) the reason why God has made the Corinthians **wise**. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 10 d1s9 figs-infostructure ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄτιμοι. 1 Paul changes the order of the last item in the list, putting **You** in front of **we**. In his culture, this is one way to identify the last item in a list. If the change in order would be misunderstood in your language, you could change the order to match the order Paul uses for the first two items. Alternate translation: “We {are} dishonored, but you {are} honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 11 i298 figs-idiom ἄχρι τῆς ἄρτι ὥρας 1 Up to this present hour In Paul’s culture, the phrase **Up to this present hour** means that what Paul is about to say has been happening and continues to happen up to the time when he writes this letter. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “To this very day” “All the time we serve Christ,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 11 k3f1 figs-exclusive πεινῶμεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and the other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 11 hqco translate-unknown γυμνιτεύομεν 1 The word translated **are poorly clothed** means that the clothing is old and worn and barely covers a person’s body. If the meaning of **are poorly clothed** would be misunderstood in your language, use a word or phrase that identifies clothing that barely covers a person. Alternate translation: “are clothed in rags” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 11 jj2y figs-activepassive καὶ κολαφιζόμεθα, καὶ 1 we are brutally beaten If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “, and people brutally beat us, and we” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 11 yhf4 translate-unknown ἀστατοῦμεν 1 we are homeless The word translated **are homeless** means that Paul and the other apostles do not have a permanent residence or a house that they own. It does not mean that they never had a place to stay. If the meaning of **are homeless** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that Paul and the other apostles do not have a permanent residence. Alternate translation: “do not own homes” or “are always on the move” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 12 exfo figs-exclusive ἰδίαις…εὐλογοῦμεν…ἀνεχόμεθα 1 Here, the words **our** and **we** refer to Paul and other “apostles.” They do not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 12 ushf figs-doublet κοπιῶμεν, ἐργαζόμενοι 1 Here, the words **working hard** and **working** mean basically the same thing. Paul uses both words to emphasize how **hard** he is working. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these words and indicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “are working very hard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 4 12 e0mz figs-idiom ἐργαζόμενοι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσίν 1 In Paul’s culture, the phrase **with our own hands** indicates that Paul and other apostles were doing manual labor. In fact, we know that Paul himself made tents (see [Acts 18:3](../act/018/03.md)), so that is probably the manual labor which he refers to here. If **with our hands** would not refer to manual labor in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or an expression that refers to manual labor. Alternate translation: “doing physically demanding work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 12 z6fg grammar-connect-time-simultaneous λοιδορούμενοι…διωκόμενοι 1 The phrases **Being reviled** and **being persecuted** identify the situations in which Paul and other apostles **bless** and **endure**. If this relationship would be misunderstood in your language, you could (1) include a word such as “when” to indicate that these actions happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “Any time we are reviled … any time we are persecuted” (2) include a word such as “although” to indicate that these actions are in contrast with each other. Alternate translation: “Although we are reviled … although we are persecuted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 4 12 n389 figs-activepassive λοιδορούμενοι 1 When we are reviled, we bless If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Others reviling us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 12 o7jz translate-unknown λοιδορούμενοι 1 Here, the word translated **Being reviled** refers to someone abusing another person with words. If that meaning for **Being reviled** would not be obvious in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does refer to using abusive words about another person. Alternate translation: “Being slandered” or “Being attacked verbally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 12 l71q figs-explicit εὐλογοῦμεν 1 Here, Paul does not state whom or what they **bless**. He could mean that they **bless**: (1) the people who “revile” them. Alternate translation: “we bless in return” (2) God, even though they are suffering. Alternate translation: “we bless God anyway” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 12 kue7 figs-activepassive διωκόμενοι 1 When we are persecuted If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Others persecuting us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 13 xvn4 figs-exclusive παρακαλοῦμεν…ἐγενήθημεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 13 l3ns grammar-connect-time-simultaneous δυσφημούμενοι 1 The phrase **being slandered** identifies the situation in which Paul and other apostles **comfort**. If this relationship would be misunderstood in your language, you could (1) include a word such as “when” to indicate that these actions happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “Any time we are slandered” (2) include a word such as “although” to indicate that these actions are in contrast with each other. Alternate translation: “Although we are slandered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 4 13 a6hp figs-activepassive δυσφημούμενοι 1 When we are slandered If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “others slandering us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 13 p0fd figs-simile ὡς περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου ἐγενήθημεν, πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul says that he and other apostles are like **scum** and **refuse**, both of which are words that describe garbage. Paul speaks in this way to show that **the world** considers him and other apostles to be worthless, just like garbage is worthless and should be thrown away. If the meaning of this simile would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable image or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “We have no value according to the world’s perspective” or “We have become like a heap of garbage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1CO 4 13 uubg figs-doublet περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου…πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul uses two different words for garbage. The word **scum** refers to what people throw away after they clean something. The word **refuse** refers to dirt or filth that people wipe or scrub off an object. Paul uses two very similar words in order to emphasize that the world thinks that he and other apostles are like garbage. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “the filthy scum of all the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 4 13 gqxj figs-possession περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **the world** identifies as **scum**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase to clarify that **scum** is what **the world** thinks he and other apostles are. Alternate translation: “what the world considers scum” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 13 flf9 figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου 1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings who do not believe in Jesus. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of human beings” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche)
1CO 4 13 ip6p figs-possession πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **refuse** that: (1) comes from **all things**. Alternate translation: “the refuse from all things” (2) **all** people consider to be garbage. Alternate translation: “what all people consider to be refuse”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 13 z4tt figs-idiom ἕως ἄρτι 1 Here, Paul ends this sentence in a similar way to how he began his sentence in [4:11](../04/11.md). In Paul’s culture, the phrase **even until now** means that what Paul speaks about has been happening and continues to happen up to the time when he writes this letter. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to this very day” “all the time we serve Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 14 k1at figs-infostructure οὐκ ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς γράφω ταῦτα, ἀλλ’ ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ, νουθετῶ 1 I do not write these things to shame you, but to correct you If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them. Alternate translation: “I correct {you} as my beloved children. I do not write these things as shaming you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 14 r9pj grammar-connect-logic-goal ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς 1 Here, the phrase **as shaming you** introduces what Paul did **not write** to do. If **as shaming** would be understood as a purpose in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does clearly indicate purpose. Alternate translation: “in order to shame you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 4 14 nlzx writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 The word translated **these things** refers back to what Paul has already written, focusing on [4:6–13](../04/06.md). If that meaning for **these things** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers back to what Paul has just finished writing. Alternate translation: “what I have said about us apostles and you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 14 t8jc grammar-connect-logic-result ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ 1 correct Here, the phrase **as my beloved children** introduces (1) the reason why Paul corrects the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because you are my beloved children” (2) the way in which he corrects the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “as a father corrects his beloved children, so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 4 14 ruu5 figs-metaphor τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ 1 my beloved children Here, Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if they were his **beloved children**. He speaks in this way because he is their spiritual father, the one who first preached the good news to them. Also, he loves them in the same way a father loves his own children. If Paul calling the Corinthians his **beloved children** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “my beloved younger siblings” or “fellow believers whom I love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 15 ur1i grammar-connect-condition-contrary ἐὰν…μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς ἔχητε ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Here, Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that the Corinthians do not have **myriads of guardians**, but he speaks in this way to emphasize that they have only one spiritual father, no matter how many **guardians** they have. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “even if you somehow had myriads of guardians in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 4 15 n8c1 figs-hyperbole μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς 1 ten thousand guardians Here, **myriads of guardians** is an exaggeration that the Corinthians would have understood to mean a large number of **guardians**. If that would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a large number. Alternate translation: “many guardians” or “a large number of guardians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 4 15 nkcc figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, identifies: (1) that these **guardians** are helping the Corinthians in their union with Christ. Alternate translation: “who work to unite you more strongly to Christ” (2) the guardians as fellow believers in Jesus. Alternate translation: “who believe in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 15 d25x figs-ellipsis οὐ πολλοὺς πατέρας 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be essential in your language to create a complete thought. In English, these words are essential, so they have been included in the ULT in brackets. If you can translate this sentence without these words, you could do so here. Otherwise, you could retain these words as they appear in the ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 4 15 j01t figs-exmetaphor οὐ πολλοὺς πατέρας; ἐν γὰρ Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου, ἐγὼ ὑμᾶς ἐγέννησα. 1 Here, Paul speaks of himself as a “father” to the Corinthian believers. He became their father **through the gospel**, which means that he is their spiritual father. He is the one who preached the **gospel** to them when they became united to **Christ Jesus**, and that makes him the one who **fathered** them. If how Paul speaks about **fathers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul refers to “spiritual” **fathers**. Alternate translation: “{you would} not {have} many spiritual fathers; for I fathered you spiritually in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 4 15 m9ek figs-metaphor ἐν…Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 2 I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) that the Corinthians became united to Christ when Paul preached the good news to them. Alternate translation: “when you were united to Christ Jesus” (2) Paul is their father in the Christian family, the family that is united to Christ. Alternate translation: “in the Christian family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 17 hi7w ὅς ἐστίν μου τέκνον, ἀγαπητὸν καὶ πιστὸν ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 my beloved and faithful child in the Lord “whom I love and whom I teach about the Lord as if he were my own child”
1CO 4 18 v4fn δέ 1 Now **Now** indicates that Paul is shifting his topic to rebuking the arrogant behavior of the Corinthian believers.
1CO 4 21 ix5g figs-rquestion τί θέλετε? 1 What do you want? Paul was making a last appeal to the Corinthians, as he has been rebuking them for the errors they had made. Alternate translation: “Tell me what you want to happen now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 21 wv61 figs-rquestion ἐν ῥάβδῳ ἔλθω πρὸς ὑμᾶς, ἢ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, πνεύματί τε πραΰτητος? 1 Shall I come to you with a rod or with love and in a spirit of gentleness? Paul is offering the Corinthians two opposing attitudes he could use when approaching them. Alternate translation: “If you want, I can come to punish you, or I can come to show you how much I love you by being gentle with you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 intro vb3l 0 # 1 Corinthians 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page to make them easier to read. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verse 13.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Euphemisms<br><br>Paul uses euphemisms to describe sensitive topics. This chapter deals with sexual immorality of one church member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fornication]])<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>Paul uses an extended comparison using many metaphors. Yeast represents evil. The loaf probably represents the whole congregation. The unleavened bread represents living purely. So the whole passage means: Don’t you know that a little evil will affect the whole congregation? So get rid of the evil so you can live purely. Christ has been sacrificed for us. So let us be sincere and truthful and not wicked and behaving badly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/unleavenedbread]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/purify]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/passover]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize important points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 5 1 e66c 0 Connecting Statement: Paul now specifically states about what sin of theirs he has heard, and how the Corinthian believers are proud of their acceptance of that man and his sin.
1CO 5 1 dlj2 figs-activepassive ἥτις οὐδὲ ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν 1 which does not even exist among the Gentiles You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that not even the Gentiles permit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 2 rr93 figs-activepassive ἵνα ἀρθῇ ἐκ μέσου ὑμῶν ὁ, τὸ ἔργον τοῦτο ποιήσας 1 The one who did this must be removed from among you You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “and remove the one who did this from among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 3 xm4e παρὼν…τῷ πνεύματι 1 I am present in spirit Being with them **in spirit** represents caring about them or wanting to be with them. Alternate translation: “I care about you” or “I want to be with you”
1CO 5 3 ax3u ἤδη κέκρικα…τὸν οὕτως τοῦτο κατεργασάμενον 1 I have already passed judgment on the one who did this This could mean: (1) Paul has decided what they should do with the one who did this. (2) Paul has found the person who did this guilty.
1CO 5 4 t83d figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ 1 in the name of our Lord Jesus This could mean: (1) the **name** of the Lord Jesus is a metonym that represents his authority. Alternate translation: “with the authority of our Lord Jesus” (2) being assembled in the Lord’s **name** implies meeting together to worship him. Alternate translation: “to worship our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 5 5 xcf6 figs-metaphor παραδοῦναι τὸν τοιοῦτον τῷ Σατανᾷ 1 hand this man over to Satan To **hand the man over to Satan** represents not allowing the man to be part of their group so that Satan would be allowed to harm him. Alternate translation: “make this man leave your group so that Satan can harm him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 5 5 nq4y figs-metaphor εἰς ὄλεθρον τῆς σαρκός 1 for the destruction of the flesh Here, **flesh** could be: (1) a reference to his physical body. Alternate translation: “so that Satan may harm his body” (2) a metaphor for the sinful nature. Alternate translation: “so that his sinful nature will be destroyed” or “so that he will not continue to live according to his sinful nature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 5 5 z2cl figs-activepassive ἵνα τὸ πνεῦμα σωθῇ ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God may save his spirit on the day of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 6 n9w0 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι μικρὰ ζύμη, ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ? 1 You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should know that a little yeast will affect the whole loaf!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 6 ng4m figs-metaphor μικρὰ ζύμη, ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ 1 Do you not know that a little yeast leavens the whole loaf? Just as a little yeast spreads throughout a whole loaf of bread, so can a little sin impact the entire fellowship of believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 5 7 ret3 figs-metaphor καὶ…τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed As the Passover lamb covered the sins of Israel by faith each year, so did Christ’s death cover the sins of all who trust in Christ by faith for eternity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 5 7 yzjl figs-activepassive καὶ…τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “the Lord has also sacrificed Christ, our Passover lamb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 11 wcm2 0 Connecting Statement: Paul tells them how to treat believers in the church who refuse to be corrected for their involvement in sexual immorality and other obvious sins before others.
1CO 5 11 w9w8 figs-activepassive τις…ὀνομαζόμενος 1 anyone who is called You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “anyone who calls himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 11 b4us ἀδελφὸς 1 brother Here, **brother** means a fellow Christian, either a man or a woman.
1CO 5 12 xeu7 figs-rquestion τί…μοι τοὺς ἔξω κρίνειν? 1 how am I involved with judging those who are outside the church? Paul is emphasizing that he is not the one **to judge** people outside the church. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “I am not the one who should judge people who do not belong to the church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 12 m4s6 figs-rquestion οὐχὶ τοὺς ἔσω ὑμεῖς κρίνετε? 1 Are you not to judge those inside? Paul is scolding the Corinthians. “You should know that you are the ones who should judge those who are inside the church.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 intro s6hb 0 # 1 Corinthians 6 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Lawsuits<br><br>Paul teaches that a Christian should not take another Christian to court before a non-Christian judge. It is better to be cheated. Christians will judge the angels. So they should be able to solve problems among themselves. It is especially bad to use a court to cheat another believer. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>The temple of the Holy Spirit is an important metaphor. It refers to the place where the Holy Spirit stays and is worshiped. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize important points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 6 1 q5d3 πρᾶγμα 1 dispute a disagreement or argument
1CO 6 1 gmy5 figs-rquestion τολμᾷ τις ὑμῶν, πρᾶγμα ἔχων πρὸς τὸν ἕτερον, κρίνεσθαι ἐπὶ τῶν ἀδίκων, καὶ οὐχὶ ἐπὶ τῶν ἁγίων? 1 does he dare to go … saints? Paul is emphasizing that Christians must resolve disagreements among themselves. Alternate translation: “None of you should dare, having a dispute with another, to go to court before the unrighteous, and not before the saints!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 2 i1m5 figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι οἱ ἅγιοι τὸν κόσμον κρινοῦσιν? 1 Or do you not know that the believers will judge the world? Paul is shaming the Corinthians for acting like they do not know. Alternate translation: “You should know that the saints will judge the world!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 2 i67f figs-rquestion καὶ εἰ ἐν ὑμῖν κρίνεται ὁ κόσμος, ἀνάξιοί ἐστε κριτηρίων ἐλαχίστων? 1 If then, you will judge the world, are you not able to settle matters of little importance? Because they will be given greater responsibility later, they should be responsible for lesser things now. Alternate translation: “And you will judge the world in the future, so you should be able to settle this matter now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 3 h374 βιωτικά 1 matters of this life “things that only have to do with this life”
1CO 6 3 us55 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἀγγέλους κρινοῦμεν, μήτι γε βιωτικά? 1 Do you not know that we will judge the angels? Paul is surprised that they do not seem to know. Alternate translation: “You should know that we will judge the angels. So of course you should be able to judge matters of this life!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 3 v5r5 figs-exclusive κρινοῦμεν 1 we will judge Here, **we** includes Paul and the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 6 3 x6h3 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἀγγέλους κρινοῦμεν, μήτι γε βιωτικά? 1 How much more, then, can we judge matters of this life? Because they will be given greater responsibility later, they should be responsible for lesser things now. Alternate translation: “Because we know we will judge the angels, we can also be sure that God will enable us to judge matters in this life.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 4 vw5t figs-rquestion βιωτικὰ μὲν οὖν κριτήρια ἐὰν ἔχητε, τοὺς ἐξουθενημένους ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ, τούτους καθίζετε? 1 If then you have to make judgments that pertain to daily life, why do you lay such cases as these before those who have no standing in the church? This could be: (1) a rhetorical question. (2) a statement, “When in the past you have settled matters that are important in this life, you have not handed off disputes between Christians to be settled by unbelievers.” (3) a command, “When you settle matters that are important in this life, it is even to those who have no standing in the church that you should hand off disputes to be settled!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 4 xn32 βιωτικὰ…κριτήρια ἐὰν ἔχητε 1 If then you have to make judgments that pertain to daily life “if you are called upon to make decisions about daily life” or “if you must settle matters that are important in this life”
1CO 6 4 e791 figs-rquestion τοὺς ἐξουθενημένους ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ, τούτους καθίζετε? 1 why do you lay such cases as these before those who have no standing in the church? Paul is rebuking the Corinthians for how they are handling these cases. This could mean: (1) they should stop giving such cases to people who are outside the church. (2) they should give such cases even to members of the church who are not well regarded by other believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 5 fue4 figs-rquestion πρὸς ἐντροπὴν ὑμῖν λέγω. οὕτως οὐκ ἔνι ἐν ὑμῖν οὐδεὶς σοφὸς, ὃς δυνήσεται διακρῖναι ἀνὰ μέσον τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ αὐτοῦ? 1 Is there no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between brothers? Paul is shaming the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You should be ashamed that you cannot find a wise believer among you to settle arguments between believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 5 l1hd τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ 1 brothers Here, **brothers** refers to fellow Christians, including both men and women.
1CO 6 6 m7ls figs-rquestion ἀλλὰ ἀδελφὸς μετὰ ἀδελφοῦ κρίνεται, καὶ τοῦτο ἐπὶ ἀπίστων? 1 But brother goes to court against brother, and this before unbelievers! You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “But believers who have disputes with each other ask unbelieving judges to make decisions for them!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 7 tn9m figs-rquestion διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀδικεῖσθε? διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀποστερεῖσθε? 1 Why not rather suffer the wrong? Why not rather allow yourselves to be cheated? Paul continues to shame the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “It would be better to let others wrong you and cheat you than to take them to court.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 8 kk7b ἀδελφούς 1 your own brothers Here, **brothers** refers to all believers, both men and women. Alternate translation: “your own fellow believers”
1CO 6 9 h17l figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἄδικοι Θεοῦ Βασιλείαν οὐ κληρονομήσουσιν? 1 Or do you not know that Paul emphasizes that they should already know this truth. Alternate translation: “You already know that he unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 9 t1rt figs-metaphor κληρονομήσουσιν 1 will inherit Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 9 h2na figs-merism μαλακοὶ…ἀρσενοκοῖται 1 male prostitutes, those who practice homosexuality These phrases could be: (1) a merism for all homosexual activity. (2) two different activities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1CO 6 9 blc7 μαλακοὶ…ἀρσενοκοῖται 1 male prostitutes These phrases could refer to: (1) men who allow other men to sleep with them. (2) men who allow men who pay them to sleep with them. (3) men who allow other men to sleep with them as part of a religious activity.
1CO 6 11 v5yq figs-activepassive ἀπελούσασθε 1 you have been cleansed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has cleansed you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 11 u8kl figs-activepassive ἡγιάσθητε 1 you have been sanctified You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God set you apart for himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 11 gnr6 figs-activepassive ἐδικαιώθητε 1 you were justified You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God made you right with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 11 s55x figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ Here, **name** is a metonym for the power and authority of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “by the power and authority of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 6 12 sw2e 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that God wants them pure because Christ has bought them with his death. Their bodies are now God’s temple. He does so by saying what the Corinthians might say and then correcting them.
1CO 6 12 r4mx πάντα μοι ἔξεστιν 1 Everything is lawful for me This could mean: (1) Paul is actually saying what he thinks is true, “God allows me to do anything.” (2) Paul is answering what some Corinthians might be thinking, “Some say, ‘I can do anything’.”
1CO 6 12 c8vz figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐγὼ ἐξουσιασθήσομαι ὑπό τινος 1 I will not be mastered by any of them You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “I will not allow these things to rule over me like a master” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 13 jz55 τὰ βρώματα τῇ κοιλίᾳ, καὶ ἡ κοιλία τοῖς βρώμασιν; ὁ δὲ Θεὸς καὶ ταύτην καὶ ταῦτα καταργήσει 1 “Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food,” but God will do away with both of them This could mean: (1) Paul is correcting what some Corinthians might be thinking, “food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food,” by answering that God will do away with both the stomach and food. (2) Paul actually agrees that “food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food,” but he is adding that God will do away with both of them.
1CO 6 15 gt2x figs-metaphor οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν μέλη Χριστοῦ ἐστιν? 1 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? The word translated as **members** refers to parts of a body. Our belonging to Christ is spoken of as if we were parts of his body. We belong to him so much that even our bodies belong to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 15 io5p figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν μέλη Χριστοῦ ἐστιν? 1 Paul uses this question to remind the people of something they should already know. Alternate translation: “You should know that your bodies are part of the body of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 15 f4vd figs-rquestion ἄρας οὖν τὰ μέλη τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ποιήσω πόρνης μέλη? μὴ γένοιτο! 1 Shall I then take away the members of Christ and join them to a prostitute? May it not be! Paul uses this question to emphasize how wrong it is for someone who belongs to Christ to go to a prostitute. Alternate translation: “I am part of Christ. I will not take my body and join myself to a prostitute!” or “We are parts of Christ’s body. We must not take our bodies and join ourselves to prostitutes!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 15 kmt2 μὴ γένοιτο 1 May it not be! “That should never happen!” or “We must never do that!”
1CO 6 16 seg6 figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ὁ κολλώμενος τῇ πόρνῃ, ἓν σῶμά ἐστιν? 1 Do you not know that … her? Paul begins to teach the Corinthians by emphasizing a truth that they already know. “I want to remind you the one who is joined to the prostitute is one body with her.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 16 z54k figs-activepassive ὁ κολλώμενος τῇ πόρνῃ, ἓν σῶμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when a man joins his body to the body of a prostitute, it is as if their bodies become one body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 17 c2tb figs-activepassive ὁ…κολλώμενος τῷ Κυρίῳ, ἓν πνεῦμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when the Lord joins his spirit to the spirit of a person, it is as if their spirits become one spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 18 ex92 figs-metaphor φεύγετε τὴν πορνείαν 1 Flee from Paul speaks of a person rejecting sexual sin as if that person were running away from danger. Alternate translation: “Get away from sexual sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 18 sc9d figs-explicit πᾶν ἁμάρτημα ὃ ἐὰν ποιήσῃ ἄνθρωπος ἐκτὸς τοῦ σώματός ἐστιν, ὁ δὲ πορνεύων εἰς τὸ ἴδιον σῶμα ἁμαρτάνει 1 immorality! Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, but This could mean: (1) Paul is showing that sexual sin is especially bad because it is not only against others but against the sinner’s own body. (2) Paul is quoting what some Corinthians were thinking. Alternate translation: “immorality! Some of you are saying, ‘Every sin that a person commits is outside the body,’ but I say that the one who is sexually immoral sins against his own body.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 19 qy5j figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι τὸ σῶμα ὑμῶν, ναὸς τοῦ ἐν ὑμῖν Ἁγίου Πνεύματός ἐστιν, οὗ ἔχετε ἀπὸ Θεοῦ? 1 Do you not know … God? … that you are not your own? Paul is continuing to teach the Corinthians by emphasizing what they already know. Alternate translation: “I want to remind you that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit in you, whom you have from God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 19 bb35 τὸ σῶμα ὑμῶν 1 your body the **body** of each individual Christian
1CO 6 19 d2mc figs-metaphor ναὸς τοῦ…Ἁγίου Πνεύματός 1 temple of the Holy Spirit A **temple** is dedicated to divine beings, and it is also where they dwell. In the same way, each Corinthian believer’s body is like a temple because the Holy Spirit is present within them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 20 qv47 figs-activepassive ἠγοράσθητε γὰρ τιμῆς 1 For you were bought with a price God paid for the freedom of the Corinthians from the slavery of sin. You can state this as active. Alternate translation: “for God paid for your freedom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 intro a25m 0 # 1 Corinthians 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul begins to answer a series of questions that the Corinthians may have asked him. The first question is about marriage. The second question is about a slave trying to become free, a Gentile becoming a Jew, or a Jew becoming a Gentile.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Divorce<br><br>Paul says married Christians should not divorce. A Christian married to an unbeliever should not leave their husband or wife. If the unbelieving husband or wife leaves, this is not a sin. Paul advises that, because of the difficult times and being near to time that Jesus will return, it is acceptable to remain unmarried. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Euphemisms<br><br>Paul uses many euphemisms to discreetly refer to sexual relations. This is often a sensitive topic. Many cultures do not wish to speak openly about these matters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 1 erl5 καλὸν ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς μὴ ἅπτεσθαι 1 “It is good for a man not to touch a woman.” This could mean: (1) Paul is quoting what the Corinthians had written. Alternate translation: “you wrote, ‘It is good for a man not to touch a woman.’” (2) Paul is saying what he really thinks. Alternate translation: “my answer is that yes, it is good for a man not to touch a woman.”
1CO 7 1 mx7w figs-euphemism γυναικὸς μὴ ἅπτεσθαι 1 not to touch a woman Here, **touch a woman** is a euphemism for having sexual relations, upon which Paul elaborates in verses 3-5. However, it is also clear from verse 2 that Paul is specifically talking about sexual relations between a husband and his wife. Alternate translation: “not to have sexual relations with his wife for a while” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 2 c3uq διὰ δὲ 1 But because This could mean: (1) Paul is responding to what the Corinthians had written. Alternate translation: “That is true, but because” (2) Paul is saying what he really thinks.
1CO 7 2 fys4 διὰ δὲ τὰς πορνείας 1 But because of temptations for many immoral acts, each “But because Satan tempts people to commit sexual sin” or “But we desire to commit sexual sin because of our sinful nature”
1CO 7 3 mj8l figs-euphemism ὀφειλὴν 1 sexual rights Both husbands and wives are obligated to regularly have sexual relations with their spouses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 3 vhv1 figs-ellipsis ὁμοίως…καὶ ἡ γυνὴ τῷ ἀνδρί 1 likewise the wife to her husband The words “should give” and “sexual rights” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “likewise the wife should give to her husband his sexual rights” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 5 qq7u figs-explicit μὴ ἀποστερεῖτε ἀλλήλους 1 Do not deprive each other The word **deprive** means to keep from someone something that the other person has the right to receive. “Do not refuse to have marital relations with your spouse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 5 s1ya πάλιν ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτὸ ἦτε 1 come together again “sleep together again”
1CO 7 5 ii8n διὰ τὴν ἀκρασίαν ὑμῶν 1 because of your lack of self-control “because after some days, your sexual desires will be harder to keep under control”
1CO 7 6 xe7r τοῦτο δὲ λέγω κατὰ συνγνώμην, οὐ κατ’ ἐπιταγήν 1 I say these things to you as a concession and not as a command This could mean: (1) Paul is telling the Corinthians that he is allowing them, but not commanding them, to marry and sleep together. (2) Paul is telling the Corinthians that he is allowing them, but not commanding them, to stop sleeping together for a time.
1CO 7 7 rbe7 εἶναι ὡς καὶ ἐμαυτόν 1 were as I am Either Paul had never married or his wife had died. It is unlikely that he had been through a divorce.
1CO 7 7 w9ld ἀλλὰ ἕκαστος ἴδιον ἔχει χάρισμα ἐκ Θεοῦ; ὁ μὲν οὕτως, ὁ δὲ οὕτως 1 But each one has his own gift from God. One has this kind of gift, and another that kind “God enables people to do different things. He enables one person to do one thing and another person to do something different”
1CO 7 10 hc5p ἀπὸ…μὴ χωρισθῆναι 1 should not separate from Paul’s readers knew no difference between separating and divorcing. To stop living with someone was to end the marriage. Alternate translation: “should not divorce”
1CO 7 11 lxf7 figs-activepassive τῷ ἀνδρὶ καταλλαγήτω 1 be reconciled to her husband You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “she should make peace with her husband and return to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 11 jd5w μὴ ἀφιέναι 1 should not divorce Paul’s readers knew no difference between divorcing and simply separating. To do either was to end the marriage. Alternate translation: “should not separate from”
1CO 7 14 l84p figs-activepassive ἡγίασται γὰρ ὁ ἀνὴρ ὁ ἄπιστος ἐν τῇ γυναικί 1 For the unbelieving husband is set apart because of his wife This could mean: (1) God has set apart the unbelieving husband for himself because of his believing wife. (2) God treats the unbelieving husband as he would treat a son for the sake of his believing wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 14 w5y9 figs-activepassive ἡγίασται ἡ γυνὴ ἡ ἄπιστος ἐν τῷ ἀδελφῷ 1 the unbelieving wife is set apart because of the brother This could mean: (1) God has set apart the unbelieving wife for himself because of her husband who believes. (2) God treats the unbelieving wife as he would treat a daughter for the sake of her husband who believes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 14 fmu5 figs-activepassive ἅγιά ἐστιν 1 they are set apart This could mean: (1) God has set them apart for himself. (2) God treats them as he would treat his own children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 15 jef4 figs-metaphor οὐ δεδούλωται ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ ἐν τοῖς τοιούτοις 1 In such cases, the brother or sister is not bound to their vows Here, **brother** and **sister** refers to a Christian husband or wife. Here, **not bound to their vows** is a metaphor that mean the person is not obligated to do what they vowed to do. Alternate translation: “In such cases, the believing spouse is not obligated to continue to obey the marriage vow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 15 q6k2 figs-activepassive οὐ δεδούλωται ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ ἐν τοῖς τοιούτοις 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “In such cases, God does not require the believing spouse to continue to obey the marriage vow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 16 l559 figs-you οἶδας, γύναι…τὸν ἄνδρα σώσεις…οἶδας, ἄνερ…τὴν γυναῖκα σώσεις 1 do you know, woman … you will save your husband … do you know, man … you will save your wife Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so all instances of **you** and **your** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 7 16 h5td figs-rquestion τί γὰρ οἶδας, γύναι, εἰ τὸν ἄνδρα σώσεις? 1 how do you know, woman, whether you will save your husband? Paul uses a question to cause women to think deeply about what he is saying. Alternate translation: “For you cannot know if you will save your unbelieving husband.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 16 dbz6 figs-rquestion ἢ τί οἶδας, ἄνερ, εἰ τὴν γυναῖκα σώσεις? 1 how do you know, man, whether you will save your wife? Paul uses a question to cause men to think deeply about what he is saying. Alternate translation: “And you cannot know if you will save your unbelieving wife.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 17 ya76 ἑκάστῳ 1 each one “to each believer”
1CO 7 17 iid2 οὕτως ἐν ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις πάσαις διατάσσομαι 1 I direct in this way in all the churches Paul was teaching believers **in all the churches** to act in this manner.
1CO 7 18 unc4 figs-rquestion περιτετμημένος τις ἐκλήθη? 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? Paul was addressing the circumcised ones (the Jews). Alternate translation: “I am now speaking to the circumcised ones who had already been circumcised when God called you to believe.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 18 fqv6 figs-rquestion ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ κέκληταί τις? 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? Paul was now addressing the uncircumcised ones. Alternate translation: “I am now speaking to the uncircumcised ones who had not been circumcised when God called you to believe.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 20 yy8l figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Here the words **us** and **we** refer to all Christians and include Paul’s audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 7 20 hsz1 ἐν τῇ κλήσει ᾗ ἐκλήθη, ἐν ταύτῃ μενέτω 1 in the calling … he should remain Here, **calling** refers to the work or social position in which you were involved. Alternate translation: “live and work in the same condition as when God called you to believe”
1CO 7 21 ag5a figs-you ἐκλήθης…σοι…δύνασαι 1 Were you … called you? Do not be … you can become Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so all instances of **you** and the command **be** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 7 21 nli9 figs-rquestion δοῦλος ἐκλήθης? μή σοι μελέτω 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned You can state this as a statement. Alternate translation: “To those who were slaves when God called you to believe, I say this: do not be concerned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 23 m53p figs-activepassive τιμῆς ἠγοράσθητε 1 You have been bought with a price You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “Christ bought you by dying for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 24 qu1l ἀδελφοί 1 Brothers Here, **brothers** refers to fellow Christians, including both men and women.
1CO 7 24 c83e figs-activepassive ἐκλήθη 1 was called You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “he was when God called him to believe in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 25 f71a περὶ δὲ τῶν παρθένων, ἐπιταγὴν Κυρίου οὐκ ἔχω 1 Now concerning those who never married, I have no commandment from the Lord Paul knows no teaching of Jesus that speaks about this situation. Alternate translation: “The Lord has not commanded me to say anything to people who have never married”
1CO 7 25 qqz7 ὡς ἠλεημένος ὑπὸ Κυρίου, πιστὸς εἶναι 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy “because, by the Lord’s mercy, I am trustworthy”
1CO 7 27 a77x figs-you 0 General Information: Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if he were speaking to each person, so all these instances of “you” and the command “do not seek” here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 7 27 k9td figs-rquestion δέδεσαι γυναικί? μὴ ζήτει 1 Are you married to a wife? Do not Paul uses this question to introduce a possible condition. You can translate the question as a phrase with “if.” Alternate translation: “If you are married, do not seek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 27 x2lk μὴ ζήτει λύσιν 1 Do not seek a divorce “Do not try to divorce her” or “Do not separate from her”
1CO 7 27 d79c μὴ ζήτει…γυναῖκα 2 do not seek a wife “Do not try to get married”
1CO 7 28 whf5 figs-explicit ἐγὼ…ὑμῶν φείδομαι 1 I want to spare you from this The word **this** refers to the kinds of worldly trouble that married people might have. Alternate translation: “I want to help you not to have worldly trouble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 32 t4ab figs-idiom ἀμερίμνους 1 free from worries Here, **free** is an idiom which means the ability to live without constantly thinking about.” Alternate translation: “without needing to worry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 34 ug6n ἡ δὲ γαμήσασα μεριμνᾷ τὰ τοῦ κόσμου, πῶς ἀρέσῃ τῷ ἀνδρί 1 is concerned about “But the married woman is trying to please God and please her husband at the same time”
1CO 7 35 rp3w βρόχον 1 constraint any restriction
1CO 7 35 ffx4 εὐπάρεδρον τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 devoted “can concentrate on the Lord”
1CO 7 36 jn8j ἀσχημονεῖν ἐπὶ 1 he is acting improperly toward “his is not being kind to” or “his is not honoring”
1CO 7 36 crb8 τὴν παρθένον αὐτοῦ 1 his virgin Here, **his virgin** could refer to: (1) the woman whom he promised to marry. (2) his virgin daughter.
1CO 7 37 nm99 figs-metaphor ὃς δὲ ἕστηκεν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ ἑδραῖος 1 But if he is standing firm in his heart Here, **standing firm** is a metaphor for deciding something with certainty. Alternate translation: “But if he has decided firmly in his own heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 37 uthl figs-metonymy ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ 1 Here, **heart** is metonym for a person’s mind or thoughts. Alternate translation: “in his own mind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 7 39 d413 figs-metaphor γυνὴ δέδεται ἐφ’ ὅσον χρόνον ζῇ ὁ ἀνὴρ αὐτῆς 1 A wife is bound for as long as her husband lives Here, **bound** is a metaphor for a close relationship between people in which they support each other emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Here it means the union of marriage. Alternate translation: “A woman is married to her husband” or “A woman is united with her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 intro c8l6 0 # 1 Corinthians 8 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In Chapters 8-10, Paul answers the question: “Is it acceptable to eat meat that has been sacrificed to an idol?”<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Meat sacrificed to idols<br><br>Paul answers this question by saying that idols are gods that do not really exist. Therefore nothing is wrong with the meat. Christians are free to eat it. However, someone who does not understand this may see a Christian eating it. They may then be encouraged to eat the meat as an act of worship to the idol.
1CO 8 1 jf6h figs-exclusive 0 General Information: **We** and **we** refer to Paul and, though specifically writing to the Corinthian believers, include all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 8 1 nzt4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the believers that though idols have no power, believers must be careful not to affect the weaker believers who might think they care about the idols. He tells believers to be careful with the liberty believers have in Christ.
1CO 8 1 g5t3 τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 food sacrificed to idols Gentile worshipers would offer grain, fish, fowl, or meat, to their gods. The priest would burn a portion of it on the altar. Paul is speaking of the portion the priest would give back for the worshiper to eat or sell in the market.
1CO 8 1 ri3s figs-metaphor ἡ γνῶσις φυσιοῖ 1 Knowledge puffs up Here, **puffs up** is a metaphor for making someone proud. Alternate translation: “Knowledge makes people proud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 1 ytrf figs-abstractnouns ἡ γνῶσις φυσιοῖ, 1 The abstract noun **knowledge** can be expressed with the verb “know.” Alternate translation: “People who think that they know a lot become proud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 1 yw8s figs-abstractnouns ἡ δὲ ἀγάπη οἰκοδομεῖ 1 but love builds up The abstract noun **love** can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “but when we love people, we build them up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 1 an8s figs-metaphor ἀγάπη οἰκοδομεῖ 1 love builds up Building people up represents helping them become mature and strong in their faith. Alternate translation: “love strengthens people” or “when we love people, we strengthen them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 2 qbh9 δοκεῖ ἐγνωκέναι τι 1 thinks he knows something “believes he knows everything about something”
1CO 8 3 etd6 figs-activepassive οὗτος ἔγνωσται ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ 1 that person is known by him You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God knows that person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 4 v4gx figs-exclusive 0 General Information: “We” and “us” here refer to all believers and include Paul’s audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 8 4 y3ee figs-explicit οἴδαμεν ὅτι οὐδὲν εἴδωλον ἐν κόσμῳ, καὶ ὅτι οὐδεὶς Θεὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς 1 We know that an idol in this world is nothing and that there is no God but one Paul is probably quoting phrases that some Corinthians used. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 4 g67g figs-metaphor οἴδαμεν ὅτι οὐδὲν εἴδωλον ἐν κόσμῳ, καὶ ὅτι οὐδεὶς Θεὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς 1 Being **nothing** represents having no power. Alternate translation: “We all know, as you yourselves like to say, that an idol in this world has no power and that there is no God but one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 5 l7ib θεοὶ πολλοὶ καὶ κύριοι πολλοί 1 many “gods” and many “lords.” Paul does not believe that many **gods** and many **lords** exist, but he recognizes that the pagans believe they do.
1CO 8 6 y6hq ἀλλ’ ἡμῖν εἷς Θεὸς 1 Yet for us there is only one God “yet we know that there is only one God”
1CO 8 7 th5p 0 General Information: Paul is speaking here of **weak** brothers, people who cannot separate food sacrificed to idols from the worship of those idols. If a Christian eats food that has been sacrificed to an idol, weak brothers might think that God will allow them to worship the idol by eating the food. Even if the eater has not worshiped the idol and is simply eating the food, he has still corrupted his weak brothers’ conscience.
1CO 8 7 ba7e μολύνεται 1 is defiled is ruined or harmed
1CO 8 8 ii4m figs-personification βρῶμα…ἡμᾶς οὐ παραστήσει τῷ Θεῷ 1 food will not present us to God Paul speaks of **food** as though it were a person who could make God welcome us. Alternate translation: “food does not give us favor with God” or “the food we eat does not make God pleased with us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 8 8 x91v figs-doublenegatives οὔτε ἐὰν μὴ φάγωμεν, ὑστερούμεθα; οὔτε ἐὰν φάγωμεν, περισσεύομεν 1 We are not worse if we do not eat, nor better if we do eat it You can state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “Some people might think that if we do not eat some things, God will love us less. But they are wrong. Those who think that God will love us more if we do eat those things are also wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 8 9 f3ds τοῖς ἀσθενέσιν 1 those who are weak for believers who are not strong in their faith
1CO 8 10 usg7 figs-you ἴδῃ τὸν ἔχοντα 1 sees the one who has Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so **the one** is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 8 11 ez6t figs-you τῇ σῇ γνώσει 1 your knowledge Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **your** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 8 11 g5tn ἀπόλλυται…ὁ ἀσθενῶν 1 the one who is weak … is destroyed The brother or sister who is not strong in his or her faith will sin or lose his or her faith.
1CO 8 13 vf92 figs-metonymy εἰ βρῶμα σκανδαλίζει τὸν ἀδελφόν μου 1 if food causes to stumble Here, **food** is a metonym for the person eating the food. Alternate translation: “if I cause by eating” or “if I, because of what I eat, cause my brother to stumble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 intro z8d4 0 # 1 Corinthians 9 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul defends himself in this chapter. Some people claimed that he was trying to gain financially from the church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Earning money from the church<br><br>People accused Paul of just wanting money from the church. Paul answered that he rightfully could get money from the church. The Old Testament taught that those who worked should get their living from their work. He and Barnabas purposefully never used this right and earned their own living.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>Paul uses many metaphors in this chapter. These metaphors teach complex truths. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Contextualization<br><br>This passage is important because Paul “contextualizes” ministering the gospel to different audiences. This means that Paul makes himself and the gospel understandable without his actions hindering the gospel being received. The translator should take extra care to preserve aspects of this “contextualization” if possible. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize various points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 9 1 mdm4 figs-rquestion οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐλεύθερος? 1 Am I not free? Paul uses this rhetorical question to remind the Corinthians of the rights he has. Alternate translation: “I am a free person.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 1 dbp9 figs-rquestion οὐκ εἰμὶ ἀπόστολος? 1 Am I not an apostle? Paul uses this rhetorical question to remind the Corinthians of who he is and the rights he has. Alternate translation: “I am an apostle.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 1 re1t figs-rquestion οὐχὶ Ἰησοῦν τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν ἑόρακα? 1 Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Paul uses this rhetorical question to remind the Corinthians of who he is. Alternate translation: “I have seen Jesus our Lord.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 1 zd7e figs-rquestion οὐ τὸ ἔργον μου ὑμεῖς ἐστε ἐν Κυρίῳ? 1 Are you not my workmanship in the Lord? Paul uses this rhetorical question to remind the Corinthians of their relationship to him. Alternate translation: “You believe in Christ because I have worked the way the Lord wants me to.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 2 j6qz figs-metonymy ἡ…σφραγίς μου τῆς ἀποστολῆς, ὑμεῖς ἐστε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord Here, **proof** is a metonym for the evidence needed to prove something. Alternate translation: “you are evidence I can use to prove that the Lord has chosen me to be an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 3 b17x ἡ ἐμὴ ἀπολογία τοῖς ἐμὲ ἀνακρίνουσίν ἐστιν αὕτη 1 This is my defense … me: This could mean: (1) the words that follow are Paul’s defense. (2) the words in 1 Corinthians 9:1-2 are Paul’s defense.
1CO 9 4 mr4g figs-rquestion μὴ οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν? 1 Do we not have the right to eat and drink? Paul uses a question to emphasize that he knows the Corinthians agree with what he is saying. Alternate translation: “We have the absolute right to receive food and drink from the churches.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 5 s9k8 figs-rquestion μὴ οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν ἀδελφὴν, γυναῖκα περιάγειν, ὡς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ ἀπόστολοι, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ τοῦ Κυρίου, καὶ Κηφᾶς? 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Paul uses a question to emphasize that he knows the Corinthians agree with what he is saying. Alternate translation: “If we have believing wives, we have a right to take them with us just as the other apostles take them, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 6 wx1p figs-rquestion ἢ μόνος ἐγὼ καὶ Βαρναβᾶς, οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν μὴ ἐργάζεσθαι? 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? Paul is shaming the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You seem to think that the only people you think need to work to earn money are Barnabas and me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 7 f3qf figs-rquestion τίς στρατεύεται ἰδίοις ὀψωνίοις ποτέ? 1 Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Paul uses a question to emphasize that he knows the Corinthians agree with what he is saying. Alternate translation: “We all know that no soldier has to buy his own supplies.” or “We all know that every soldier receives his supplies from the government.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 7 zh5m figs-rquestion τίς φυτεύει ἀμπελῶνα, καὶ τὸν καρπὸν αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἐσθίει? 1 Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit? Paul uses a question to emphasize that he knows the Corinthians agree with what he is saying. Alternate translation: “We all know that the one who plants a vineyard will always eat its fruit.” or “We all know that no one expects someone who plants a vineyard not to eat its fruits.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 7 r1ih figs-rquestion ἢ τίς ποιμαίνει ποίμνην, καὶ ἐκ τοῦ γάλακτος τῆς ποίμνης, οὐκ ἐσθίει? 1 Or who tends a flock and does not drink milk from it? Paul uses a question to emphasize that he knows the Corinthians agree with what he is saying. Alternate translation: “And we all know that those who tend flocks get their drink from the flocks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 8 jld4 figs-rquestion μὴ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον, ταῦτα λαλῶ, ἢ καὶ ὁ νόμος ταῦτα οὐ λέγει? 1 Am I not saying these things according to human authority? Paul is shaming the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You seem to think that I am saying these things based on merely human authority, but the law of Moses also says the same thing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 8 vy1n figs-rquestion ἢ καὶ ὁ νόμος ταῦτα οὐ λέγει? 1 Or does not the law also say this? Paul is shaming the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You act as if you do not know that this is what is written in the law.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 9 h2d3 figs-you οὐ φιμώσεις 1 Do not put a muzzle on Moses was speaking to the Israelites as if they were one person, so this command is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 9 9 sxk2 figs-rquestion μὴ τῶν βοῶν μέλει τῷ Θεῷ? 1 Is it really the oxen that God cares about? Paul asks a question so that the Corinthians will think of what he is saying without him having to say it. Alternate translation: “You should know without me telling you that it is not the oxen that God cares most about.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 10 x84t figs-rquestion ἢ δι’ ἡμᾶς πάντως λέγει? 1 Or is he speaking entirely for our sake? Paul asks a question to emphasize the statement he is making. Alternate translation: “Instead, God was certainly speaking about us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 10 f8f4 figs-exclusive δι’ ἡμᾶς -1 for our sake Here, both instances of **our** refer to Paul and Barnabas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 11 g1wh figs-rquestion ὑμῖν…μέγα εἰ ἡμεῖς ὑμῶν τὰ σαρκικὰ θερίσομεν? 1 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? Paul asks a question so that the Corinthians will think of what he is saying without him having to say it. Alternate translation: “among you, you should know without me telling you that it is not too much for us to receive material support from you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 12 lld4 figs-rquestion εἰ ἄλλοι τῆς ὑμῶν ἐξουσίας μετέχουσιν, οὐ μᾶλλον ἡμεῖς? 1 If others exercised this right over you, should we not even more? Paul asks a question so that the Corinthians will think of what he is saying without him having to say it. Alternate translation: “Others exercised this right over you, so you know without me telling you that we have this right even more.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 12 v333 εἰ ἄλλοι τῆς…ἐξουσίας μετέχουσιν 1 If others exercised this right Paul and the Corinthians both know that others exercised the right. “Since others exercised this right”
1CO 9 12 q7vj τῆς…ἐξουσίας 1 this right the **right** to have the believers at Corinth provide for the living expenses of those who told them the good news
1CO 9 12 vt6t μή τινα ἐνκοπὴν δῶμεν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 to cause any hindrance “we might now be a burden to the gospel” or “we would not stop the spread of the gospel”
1CO 9 13 slf9 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι οἱ τὰ ἱερὰ ἐργαζόμενοι, τὰ ἐκ τοῦ ἱεροῦ ἐσθίουσιν; οἱ τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ παρεδρεύοντες, τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ συνμερίζονται? 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they know so he can add new information. Alternate translation: “I want to remind you that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar eat from the things presented on the altar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 14 rj38 figs-metonymy ἐκ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ζῆν 1 get their living from the gospel The words **the gospel** here are a metonym that refers to: (1) the people to whom they tell the gospel. Alternate translation: “receive their food and other things they need from those to whom they teach the good news” (2) the result of working to tell the gospel. Alternate translation: “receive their food and other things they need because they work to tell the good news.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 15 fs7a οὐδενὶ τούτων 1 these rights “of any of these things that I deserve”
1CO 9 15 sy42 figs-activepassive ἵνα οὕτως γένηται ἐν ἐμοί 1 so that this might be done for me You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so you will do the same kind of things for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 17 t8pm figs-ellipsis εἰ δὲ ἄκων 1 But if not willingly The words “I do this” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “But if I do this unwillingly” or “But if I do this even though I do not want to” or “But if I do this because I was forced to do it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 17 xa5p figs-activepassive οἰκονομίαν πεπίστευμαι 1 I have been entrusted with a stewardship You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “I must do this work that God trusted me to complete” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 18 lg51 figs-rquestion τίς οὖν μού ἐστιν ὁ μισθός? 1 What then is my reward? Paul is preparing them for the new information he is going to give them. Alternate translation: “This is my reward.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 18 ia5x ἵνα εὐαγγελιζόμενος ἀδάπανον, θήσω τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 That when I preach, I may offer the gospel without charge “My reward for preaching is that I can preach without receiving payment”
1CO 9 18 dln7 θήσω τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 offer the gospel “I might preach the gospel”
1CO 9 18 fn7i εἰς τὸ μὴ καταχρήσασθαι τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ μου ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 so not take full use of my right in the gospel “without asking people to support me as I travel and preach”
1CO 9 19 s48l figs-metaphor ἐλεύθερος…ὢν ἐκ πάντων 1 I am free from all Here, **being free from all** is an idiom for having the ability to live without thinking of what one must do for others. Alternate translation: “although I am able to live without serving others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 19 mms9 τοὺς πλείονας κερδήσω 1 I might gain even more “I might persuade others to believe” or “I might help others trust in Christ”
1CO 9 24 urh5 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι οἱ ἐν σταδίῳ τρέχοντες, πάντες μὲν τρέχουσιν, εἷς δὲ λαμβάνει τὸ βραβεῖον? 1 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run the race, but that only one receives the prize? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they know so he can add new information. Alternate translation: “Let me remind you that although all runners run the race, only one runner receives the prize.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 24 mq1d figs-metaphor τρέχουσιν 1 run Paul compares living the Christian life and working for God to running a race and being an athlete. As in a race, the Christian life and work require strict discipline on the part of the runner, and, as in a race, the Christian has a specific goal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 24 mh8z figs-metaphor οὕτως τρέχετε, ἵνα καταλάβητε 1 So run in such a way that you might obtain it Paul is speaking of the reward God will give his faithful people as if it were a prize given for an athletic contest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 25 bfe4 figs-metaphor φθαρτὸν στέφανον…ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄφθαρτον 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable The word translated as **wreath** can either refer to the wreath of leaves that was given as prizes to athletes who won games and races. The same word can be translated as “crown.” Paul is using this double sense to compare the wreath which would dry up to a crown of eternal life that will never decay. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 26 k64n figs-metaphor ἐγὼ…οὕτως τρέχω, ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως; οὕτως πυκτεύω, ὡς οὐκ ἀέρα δέρων 1 I do not run without purpose or box by beating the air Here, **run** and **boxing** are both metaphors for living the Christian life and serving God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 26 muuc figs-doublenegatives ἐγὼ…οὕτως τρέχω, ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως; οὕτως πυκτεύω, ὡς οὐκ ἀέρα δέρων 1 You can state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “I know very well why I am running, and I know what I am doing when I box” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 26 m7gf figs-doublenegatives ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως 1 You can state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “with purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 27 blb7 figs-metaphor αὐτὸς ἀδόκιμος γένωμαι 1 I myself may not be disqualified The judge of a race or competition is a metaphor for God. Alternate translation: “I would be disqualified by the judge” or “God would say that I failed to obey the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 27 s3sd figs-activepassive αὐτὸς ἀδόκιμος γένωμαι 1 This passive sentence can be rephrased to an active form. Alternate translation: “the judge disqualify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 intro abcd 0 # 1 Corinthians 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Chapters 8-10 together answer the question: “Is it acceptable to eat meat that has been sacrificed to an idol?”<br><br>In this chapter, Paul uses the exodus to warn people not to sin. Then, he returns to discussing meat offered to idols. He uses the Lord’s Supper as an example. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Exodus<br><br>Paul uses the experiences of Israel leaving Egypt and roaming the desert as a warning to the believers. Although the Israelites all followed Moses, they all died on the way. None of them reached the Promised Land. Some worshiped an idol, some tested God, and some grumbled. Paul warns Christians not to sin. We can resist temptation because God provides a way of escape. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promisedland]])<br><br>### Eating meat sacrificed to idol<br><br>Paul discusses meat offered to idols. Christians are allowed to eat, but it may hurt others. So when buying meat or eating with a friend, do not ask if it has been offered to idols. But if someone tells you it has been offered to idols, don’t eat it for the sake of that person. Do not offend anyone. Seek to save them instead. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize important points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion)
1CO 10 1 g34f figs-exclusive οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν πάντες ὑπὸ τὴν νεφέλην ἦσαν, καὶ πάντες διὰ τῆς θαλάσσης διῆλθον 1 our fathers Paul is referring to the time of Moses in the book of Exodus when Israel fled through the Red Sea as the Egyptian army pursued them. The word **our** refers to himself and the Corinthians and is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 10 1 v4c6 τῆς θαλάσσης 1 passed through the sea This **sea** is known by two names, the Red Sea and the Sea of Reeds.
1CO 10 2 f7cq πάντες εἰς τὸν Μωϋσῆν ἐβαπτίσαντο 1 All were baptized into Moses “they all followed and were committed to Moses”
1CO 10 2 y72i ἐν τῇ νεφέλῃ 1 in the cloud The **cloud** represented the presence of God and led the Israelites during the day.
1CO 10 4 xut2 πάντες τὸ αὐτὸ πνευματικὸν ἔπιον πόμα; ἔπινον γὰρ ἐκ πνευματικῆς ἀκολουθούσης πέτρας 1 drank the same spiritual drink … spiritual rock “drank the same water that God supernaturally brought out of the rock that followed them”
1CO 10 4 whj4 figs-metonymy ἡ…πέτρα ἦν ὁ Χριστός 1 that rock was Christ The **rock** was a literal, physical rock, so it would be best to translate this literally. If your language cannot say that a rock was a person’s name, treat the word **rock** as a metonym for the power of Christ that worked through the rock. Alternate translation: “it was Christ who worked through that rock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 10 5 lh93 figs-litotes οὐκ…ηὐδόκησεν 1 not well pleased Alternate translation: “was displeased” or “was angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 10 5 tnu4 τοῖς πλείοσιν αὐτῶν 1 most of them “most of the Israelite fathers”
1CO 10 5 w673 figs-activepassive κατεστρώθησαν 1 their corpses were scattered about You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God scattered their dead bodies around” or “God killed them and scattered their bodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 5 b96g ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ 1 in the wilderness The **wilderness** is the desert land between Egypt and Israel through which the Israelites wandered for 40 years.
1CO 10 7 ukp4 figs-euphemism παίζειν 1 to play Paul is quoting the Jewish scriptures. His readers would have understood from the phrase **to play** that the people were worshiping an idol by singing and dancing and engaging in sexual activities, not simply enjoying innocent fun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 10 9 l5h4 figs-activepassive ὑπὸ τῶν ὄφεων ἀπώλλυντο 1 were destroyed by snakes You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “as a result, snakes destroyed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 10 i3q3 figs-activepassive ἀπώλοντο ὑπὸ τοῦ ὀλοθρευτοῦ 1 were destroyed by the destroyer You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “as a result, an angel of death destroyed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 13 a8vj figs-doublenegatives πειρασμὸς ὑμᾶς οὐκ εἴληφεν, εἰ μὴ ἀνθρώπινος 1 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to all humanity You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “The temptations that affect you are temptations that all people experience” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 10 13 hc7q ὃς οὐκ ἐάσει ὑμᾶς πειρασθῆναι ὑπὲρ ὃ δύνασθε 1 He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability This can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: “who will only allow you to be tempted in ways that you are strong enough to resist”
1CO 10 13 a72t figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐάσει ὑμᾶς πειρασθῆναι 1 will not let you be tempted You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “will not allow anyone to tempt you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 14 dab4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to remind them to be pure and to stay away from idolatry and immorality as he talks about communion, which represents the blood and body of Christ.
1CO 10 14 n5tb figs-metaphor φεύγετε ἀπὸ τῆς εἰδωλολατρίας 1 flee away from idolatry Paul is speaking of the practice of worshiping idols as if it were a physical thing like a dangerous animal. Alternate translation: “do all you can to get away from worshiping idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 16 gi4s τὸ ποτήριον τῆς εὐλογίας…τὸν ἄρτον 1 The cup of blessing Paul is speaking of the cup of wine and the bread that were used in the ritual of the Lord’s Supper.
1CO 10 16 y5uv figs-rquestion τὸ ποτήριον τῆς εὐλογίας, ὃ εὐλογοῦμεν, οὐχὶ κοινωνία ἐστὶν τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ? 1 is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know, that the cup of wine that we share represents us sharing in the blood of Christ. Alternate translation: “When we bless the cup in the Lord's Supper, we share in the blood of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 16 ngf6 figs-rquestion τὸν ἄρτον ὃν κλῶμεν, οὐχὶ κοινωνία τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐστιν? 1 The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know. Alternate translation: “When we break the bread of the Lord's Supper, we share in the body of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 18 q9ng figs-rquestion οὐχὶ οἱ ἐσθίοντες τὰς θυσίας, κοινωνοὶ τοῦ θυσιαστηρίου εἰσίν? 1 Are not those who eat the sacrifices participants in the altar? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know so that he can give them new information. Alternate translation: “those who eat the sacrifices share in the activities and the blessings of the altar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 19 ix5q figs-rquestion τί οὖν φημι? 1 What am I saying then? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know so that he can give them new information. Alternate translation: “Let me review what I am saying.” or “This is what I mean.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 19 j8dj figs-ellipsis ὅτι εἰδωλόθυτόν τὶ ἐστιν, ἢ ὅτι εἴδωλόν τὶ ἐστιν? 1 Or that food sacrificed to an idol is anything? The words “I am saying” are understood from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “Am I saying that food sacrificed to idols or idols themselves are important?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 10 19 l9t4 figs-rquestion ὅτι εἰδωλόθυτόν τὶ ἐστιν, ἢ ὅτι εἴδωλόν τὶ ἐστιν? 1 Paul wants the Corinthians to answer the question in their minds so he does not have to tell them. Alternate translation: “You know that I am not saying that an idol is something real or that food sacrificed to idols is important.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 21 dy2g figs-metonymy οὐ δύνασθε ποτήριον Κυρίου πίνειν, καὶ ποτήριον δαιμονίων 1 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons Paul speaks of a person drinking from the same cup as the demon as evidence that that person is a friend of the demon. Alternate translation: “It is impossible for you to be true friends with both the Lord and demons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 10 21 qwk7 οὐ δύνασθε τραπέζης Κυρίου μετέχειν, καὶ τραπέζης δαιμονίων 1 You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons “It is impossible for you to be truly one with the Lord’s people and also with demons”
1CO 10 22 l8ik figs-rquestion ἢ παραζηλοῦμεν τὸν Κύριον? 1 Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this question in their minds. Alternate translation: “You should know without me telling you that it is not right to make the Lord jealous.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 22 h9fh παραζηλοῦμεν τὸν Κύριον 1 provoke to anger or irritate the Lord
1CO 10 22 zv17 figs-rquestion μὴ ἰσχυρότεροι αὐτοῦ ἐσμεν? 1 We are not stronger than him, are we? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this question in their minds. Alternate translation: “You should know without me telling you that we are not stronger than God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 23 tu2m πάντα ἔξεστιν 1 Everything is lawful This could mean: (1) Paul is answering what some Corinthians might be thinking, “Some say, ‘I can do anything’.” (2) Paul is actually saying what he thinks is true, “God allows me to do anything.” This should be translated as in [1 Corinthians 6:12](../06/12.md).
1CO 10 23 ex6z figs-metaphor οὐ πάντα οἰκοδομεῖ 1 not everything builds people up To **build up** people represents helping them become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “not everything strengthens people” or “some things do not strengthen people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 27 g31y ὑμῖν…μηδὲν ἀνακρίνοντες διὰ τὴν συνείδησιν 1 you without asking questions of conscience “you. God wants you to eat the food with a clear conscience”
1CO 10 28 q3zt figs-you ἐὰν δέ τις ὑμῖν εἴπῃ…μὴ ἐσθίετε…τὸν μηνύσαντα 1 But if someone says to you … do not eat … who informed you Some translations put this verse, continuing to “and not yours” in the next verse, in parentheses because: (1) The forms of **you** and **eat** here are singular, but Paul uses the plural form immediately before and after this sentence. (2) The words “For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?” in the next verse seem to build on “eat everything that is set before you without asking questions for the sake of your conscience” ([1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md)) rather than “the conscience of the other man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 28 qi77 figs-you ὑμῖν εἴπῃ…μὴ ἐσθίετε…τὸν μηνύσαντα 1 says to you … do not eat … informed you Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so both instances of the word **you** and the command **do not eat it** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 v1d9 figs-you συνείδησιν δὲ λέγω, οὐχὶ τὴν ἑαυτοῦ 1 the conscience of the other man, I mean, and not yours Some translations put these words, along with the words in the verse before this one, in parentheses because (1) The forms of **you** and **eat** here are singular, but Paul uses the plural form immediately before and after this sentence. (2) The words “For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?” in the next verse seem to build on “eat everything that is set before you without asking questions for the sake of your conscience” ([1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md)) rather than “the conscience of the other man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 s1wk figs-you οὐχὶ τὴν ἑαυτοῦ 1 and not yours Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **your** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 k8xr ἵνα τί γὰρ ἡ ἐλευθερία μου κρίνεται ὑπὸ ἄλλης συνειδήσεως? 1 For why … conscience? Possible meanings for this question, along with the question in the next verse, are (1) The word **For** refers back to [1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md). Alternate translation: “I am not to ask questions of conscience, so why … conscience?” (2) Paul is quoting what some Corinthians were thinking. Alternate translation: “As some of you might be thinking, ‘For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?’”
1CO 10 29 d4q1 figs-rquestion ἵνα τί γὰρ ἡ ἐλευθερία μου κρίνεται ὑπὸ ἄλλης συνειδήσεως? 1 why should my freedom be judged by another’s conscience? The speaker wants the hearer to answer the question in his mind. Alternate translation: “For you should know without me telling you that no one should be able to say I am doing wrong just because that person has ideas about right and wrong that are different from mine.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 30 dv5f figs-rquestion εἰ ἐγὼ χάριτι μετέχω, τί βλασφημοῦμαι ὑπὲρ οὗ ἐγὼ εὐχαριστῶ? 1 If I partake of the meal with gratitude, why am I being insulted for that for which I gave thanks? The speaker wants the hearer to answer the question in his mind. Alternate translation: “I partake of the meal with gratitude, so no one should insult me for that for which I gave thanks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 30 x2v5 εἰ ἐγὼ…μετέχω 1 If I partake If Paul is not quoting what some Corinthians might be thinking, the **I** represents those who eat meat with thankfulness. “If a person partakes” or “When a person eats”
1CO 10 30 n89t χάριτι 1 with gratitude “and thank God for it” or “and thank the person who gave it to me for it”
1CO 10 32 ag47 ἀπρόσκοποι καὶ Ἰουδαίοις γίνεσθε, καὶ Ἕλλησιν 1 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks “Do not displease Jews or Greeks” or “Do not make Jews or Greeks angry”
1CO 11 intro abce 0 # 1 Corinthians 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the beginning of a new section of the letter (Chapters 11-14). Paul now talks about proper church services. In this chapter, he deals with two different problems: women in the church services (verses 1-16) and the Lord’s Supper (verses 17-34).<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Proper conduct in a church service<br><br>### Disorderly women<br><br>Paul’s instructions here are debated among scholars. There may have been women who were abusing their Christian freedom and causing disorder in the church by going against established cultural customs. The disorder that their actions created would have caused him to be concerned.<br><br>### The Lord’s Supper<br><br>There were problems in how the Corinthians were handling the Lord’s Supper. They did not act in a unified manner. During the feast celebrated along with the Lord’s Supper, some of them ate their own food without sharing. Some of them got drunk while the poor people remained hungry. Paul taught that the believers dishonored Christ’s death if they participated in the Lord’s Supper while they were sinning or while they were in broken relationships with each other. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses rhetorical questions to scold the people for their unwillingness to follow the rules for worship he has suggested. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>### The head<br><br>Paul uses “head” as a metonym for authority in verse 3 and also to refer to a person’s actual head in verse 4 and following. Since they are so close together, it is likely that Paul intentionally used “head” in this way. This would show that the ideas in these verses were connected. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 11 1 h5fg 0 Connecting Statement: After reminding them to follow him the way he follows Christ, Paul gives some specific instructs in how women and men are to live as believers.
1CO 11 2 qsk9 πάντα μου μέμνησθε 1 you remember me in everything “you think of me at all times” or “you always try act as I would want you to act” The Corinthians had not forgotten who Paul was or what he had taught them.
1CO 11 3 en95 κεφαλὴ…γυναικὸς ὁ ἀνήρ 2 a man is the head of a woman This could mean: (1) men are to have authority over women. (2) the husband is to have authority over the wife.
1CO 11 4 uuv2 προφητεύων κατὰ κεφαλῆς ἔχων 1 having something on his head “prophesying after placing a cloth or veil over his head”
1CO 11 4 lit3 καταισχύνει τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ 1 dishonors his head This could mean: (1) this brings disgrace on the man. (2) this brings disgrace on Christ, who is the head of the man.
1CO 11 5 b7ku γυνὴ προσευχομένη ἢ προφητεύουσα ἀκατακαλύπτῳ τῇ κεφαλῇ, καταισχύνει τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτῆς 1 woman who prays … dishonors her head This could mean: (1) a woman who prays with her head uncovered brings disgrace on herself. (2) a woman who prays with her head uncovered brings disgrace on her husband.
1CO 11 5 k5yl ἀκατακαλύπτῳ τῇ κεφαλῇ 1 with her head uncovered That is, without the cloth that was worn on the top of the **head** and that covered the hair.
1CO 11 6 s4r5 εἰ…αἰσχρὸν γυναικὶ 2 If it is disgraceful for a woman It was a mark of disgrace or humiliation for a woman to have her hair shaved off or cut short.
1CO 11 7 aa4r figs-activepassive οὐκ ὀφείλει κατακαλύπτεσθαι τὴν κεφαλήν 1 should not have his head covered You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: This could mean: (1) a man must not cover his head. (2) a man does not need to cover his head. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 8 s5ns figs-activepassive οὐ γάρ ἐστιν ἀνὴρ ἐκ γυναικός, ἀλλὰ γυνὴ ἐξ ἀνδρός. 1 For man was not made from woman. Instead, woman was made from man God made the **woman** by taking a bone from the **man** and making the woman from that bone. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God did not make the man from the woman. Instead, he made the woman from the man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 8 w8jm οὐ γάρ ἐστιν ἀνὴρ ἐκ γυναικός, ἀλλὰ γυνὴ ἐξ ἀνδρός. 1 For neither … for man All of [1 Corinthians 11:8-9](../11/08.md) could be put in parentheses so that the reader can see that “This is why” in [1 Corinthians 11:10](../11/10.md) refers back to the words “the woman is the glory of the man” in [1 Corinthians 11:7](../11/07.md).
1CO 11 10 wh4c ἐξουσίαν ἔχειν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς 1 have a symbol of authority on her head This could symbolize that: (1) she has man as her head.” (2) she has the authority to pray or prophesy.
1CO 11 11 hqy4 figs-doublenegatives οὔτε γυνὴ χωρὶς ἀνδρὸς, οὔτε ἀνὴρ χωρὶς γυναικὸς ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 the woman is not independent from the man, nor is the man independent from the woman You can state this positively. Alternate translation: “the woman depends on the man, and the man depends on the woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 11 13 hp13 figs-rquestion πρέπον ἐστὶν γυναῖκα ἀκατακάλυπτον, τῷ Θεῷ προσεύχεσθαι? 1 Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Paul expects the Corinthians to agree with him. You can state this in active form. “To honor God, a woman should pray to God with a covering on her head.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 14 v5b5 figs-rquestion οὐδὲ ἡ φύσις αὐτὴ διδάσκει ὑμᾶς, ὅτι ἀνὴρ μὲν ἐὰν κομᾷ, ἀτιμία αὐτῷ ἐστιν; 1 Does not even nature itself teach you … for him? This is the first part of a rhetorical question that continues into the next verse. Paul expects the Corinthians to agree with him. Alternate translation: “Even nature teaches you that if a man might have long hair, it is a disgrace for him;” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 14 gyw9 figs-personification οὐδὲ ἡ φύσις αὐτὴ διδάσκει ὑμᾶς, ὅτι ἀνὴρ μὲν ἐὰν κομᾷ, ἀτιμία αὐτῷ ἐστιν 1 Does not even nature itself teach you … for him? He is speaking of nature as if it were a person who teaches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 11 15 s7ys figs-activepassive ὅτι ἡ κόμη…δέδοται αὐτῇ 1 For her hair has been given to her You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “For God created woman with long hair” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 17 id4f 0 Connecting Statement: As Paul talks about communion, the Lord’s supper, he reminds them to have right attitudes as well as unity. He reminds them that if they fail in those things when taking communion, they will become sick and die, as has already happened to some of them.
1CO 11 17 du1a οὐκ εἰς τὸ κρεῖσσον, ἀλλὰ εἰς τὸ ἧσσον 1 it is not for the better but for the worse “you do not help each other; instead, you harm each other”
1CO 11 18 iu3q ἐν ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 in the church “as believers.” Paul is not talking about being inside a building.
1CO 11 18 l9vx σχίσματα ἐν ὑμῖν ὑπάρχειν 1 there are divisions among you “you divide yourselves into opposing groups”
1CO 11 19 s9sy figs-irony δεῖ γὰρ καὶ αἱρέσεις ἐν ὑμῖν εἶναι, ἵνα καὶ οἱ δόκιμοι φανεροὶ γένωνται ἐν ὑμῖν 1 For there must also be factions among you This could mean: (1) the phrase **it is necessary** indicates that this situation is likely to happen. Alternate translation: “For there will probably be factions among you” (2) Paul was using irony to shame them for having factions. Alternate translation: “For you seem to think that there must be factions among you” or “For you seem to think that you must divide yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 11 20 dse7 οὐκ ἔστιν Κυριακὸν δεῖπνον φαγεῖν 1 it is not the Lord’s Supper that you eat “you may believe you are eating the Lord’s Supper, but you do not treat it with respect”
1CO 11 22 f8ht figs-rquestion μὴ γὰρ οἰκίας οὐκ ἔχετε εἰς τὸ ἐσθίειν καὶ πίνειν? 1 Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “For if you just want to eat and to drink, you certainly have houses where you can do that!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 22 zl1h εἰς τὸ ἐσθίειν καὶ πίνειν 1 to eat and to drink in “in which to gather for a meal”
1CO 11 22 am33 figs-rquestion ἢ τῆς ἐκκλησίας τοῦ Θεοῦ καταφρονεῖτε, καὶ καταισχύνετε τοὺς μὴ ἔχοντας? 1 Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You are acting in such a way that despises the church of God and humiliates those who have nothing!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 22 nz88 figs-rquestion τί εἴπω ὑμῖν? ἐπαινέσω ὑμᾶς ἐν τούτῳ? 1 What should I say to you? Should I praise you? Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “I can say nothing good about this. I cannot praise you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 23 av31 ἐγὼ γὰρ παρέλαβον ἀπὸ τοῦ Κυρίου, ὃ καὶ παρέδωκα ὑμῖν, ὅτι ὁ Κύριος 1 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you, that the Lord “For it was from the Lord that I heard what I told you, and it was this: the Lord”
1CO 11 23 c197 figs-activepassive ἐν τῇ νυκτὶ ᾗ παρεδίδετο 1 on the night when he was betrayed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “on the night that Judas Iscariot betrayed him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 25 gr2k τὸ ποτήριον 1 the cup It is best to translate this literally. The Corinthians knew which cup he took, so it is not simply “a cup” or “some cup” or “any cup.” This could refer to: (1) the cup of wine that one would expect him to use. (2) the third or fourth of the four cups of wine that the Jews drank at the Passover meal.
1CO 11 25 z54e τοῦτο ποιεῖτε, ὁσάκις ἐὰν πίνητε 1 Do this as often as you drink it “Drink from this cup, and as often as you drink from it”
1CO 11 26 m89f figs-explicit ἄχρι οὗ ἔλθῃ 1 until he comes Where Jesus comes to can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “until Jesus comes back to the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 11 27 as6y ἐσθίῃ τὸν ἄρτον ἢ πίνῃ τὸ ποτήριον τοῦ Κυρίου 1 eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord “the bread of the Lord or drinks the cup of the Lord”
1CO 11 28 nhx7 figs-metaphor δοκιμαζέτω…ἄνθρωπος 1 examine Paul speaks of a person looking at his relationship to God and how he has been living his life as if that person is looking over something he wants to buy. See how “test the quality” is translated in [1 Corinthians 3:13](../03/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 11 29 gqd2 μὴ διακρίνων τὸ σῶμα 1 without discerning the body This could mean: (1) that person does not recognize that the church is the body of the Lord. (2) that person does not consider that he is handling the Lord’s body.
1CO 11 30 vx5t figs-euphemism κοιμῶνται ἱκανοί 1 and many of you have fallen asleep Here, **fallen asleep** is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: “and some of you have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]]).
1CO 11 30 bh6j figs-explicit ἱκανοί 1 many of you If this would sound like Paul is talking to those who have died, you may need to make explicit that he is not. Alternate translation: “many of the members of your group” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 11 31 j6ml figs-metaphor διεκρίνομεν 1 examine Paul speaks of a person looking at his relationship to God and how he has been living his life as if that person is looking over something he wants to buy. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 11:28](../11/28.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 11 31 egl8 figs-activepassive οὐκ ἂν ἐκρινόμεθα 1 we will not be judged You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God would not judge us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 32 ruq5 figs-activepassive κρινόμενοι…ὑπὸ Κυρίου, παιδευόμεθα, ἵνα μὴ…κατακριθῶμεν 1 we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined, so that we may not be condemned You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when the Lord judges us, he disciplines us, so that he will not condemn us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 34 x1l8 figs-metonymy μὴ εἰς κρίμα συνέρχησθε 1 not be for judgment “it will not be an occasion for God to discipline you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 12 intro abcf 0 # 1 Corinthians 12 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### Gifts of the Holy Spirit<br><br>This chapter begins a new section. Chapters 12-14 discuss spiritual gifts within the church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The Church, the body of Christ<br><br>This is an important metaphor in Scripture. The Church has many different parts. Each part has different functions. They combine to make one church. All of the different parts are necessary. Each part is to be concerned for all the other parts, even those that seem less important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “No one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit.”<br><br>In reading the Old Testament, the Jews would have substituted the word “Lord” for the word “Yahweh.” This sentence probably means that no one can say that Jesus is Yahweh, God in the flesh, without the Holy Spirit’s influence drawing them to accept this truth. If this statement is translated poorly, it can have unintended theological consequences.
1CO 12 1 da2e 0 Connecting Statement: Paul lets them know that God has given special gifts to believers. These gifts are to help the body of believers.
1CO 12 1 i3k7 figs-doublenegatives οὐ θέλω ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν 1 I do not want you to be uninformed You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “I want you to know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 12 2 hbt8 figs-metaphor ἔθνη ἦτε, πρὸς τὰ εἴδωλα τὰ ἄφωνα ὡς ἂν ἤγεσθε, ἀπαγόμενοι 1 you were led astray to idols who could not speak, in whatever ways you were led by them Here, **led astray** is a metaphor for being persuaded to do something wrong. Being led astray to idols represents being wrongly persuaded to worship idols. Alternate translation: “you were persuaded in some way to worship idols who cannot speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 12 2 xnw1 figs-activepassive ἔθνη ἦτε, πρὸς τὰ εἴδωλα τὰ ἄφωνα ὡς ἂν ἤγεσθε, ἀπαγόμενοι 1 You can state the phrases “were led astray” and “you were led by them” in active form. Alternate translation: “you believed lies somehow and so you worshiped idols who cannot speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 3 zg4j οὐδεὶς ἐν Πνεύματι Θεοῦ λαλῶν, λέγει 1 no one who speaks by the Spirit of God can say This could mean: (1) “no Christian who has the Spirit of God in him can say.” (2) “no one who is prophesying by the power of the Spirit of God can say.”
1CO 12 7 x7mv figs-activepassive ἑκάστῳ…δίδοται 1 to each one is given You can state this in active form. God is the one who does the giving ([1 Corinthians 12:6](../12/06.md)). Alternate translation: “God gives to each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 8 c9ak figs-activepassive ᾧ μὲν…διὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος δίδοται λόγος 1 to one is given by the Spirit a word You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “by means of the Spirit God gives to one person a word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 8 pe8s figs-activepassive δίδοται 1 is given You can state this in active form. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 12:8](../12/08.md). Alternate translation: “God gives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 9 d7qg figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ…χαρίσματα ἰαμάτων ἐν τῷ ἑνὶ Πνεύματι 1 to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit The words **are given** are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit are given” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 x572 figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ προφητεία 1 to another prophecy The phrase “is given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another prophecy is given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 v7xy figs-ellipsis ἑτέρῳ γένη γλωσσῶν 1 to another various kinds of tongues The phrase “are given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another various kinds of tongues are given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 j8qk figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ…ἑρμηνία γλωσσῶν 4 to another the interpretation of tongues The phrase “is given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another the interpretation of tongues is given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 c14y ἑρμηνία γλωσσῶν 1 the interpretation of tongues This refers to the ability to listen to what someone says in one language and use another language to tell people what that person is saying. Alternate translation: “the ability to interpret what is said in other languages”
1CO 12 11 z383 τὸ ἓν καὶ τὸ αὐτὸ Πνεῦμα 1 one and the same Spirit God gives the gifts through the work of the one and only Holy **Spirit**. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 12:8](../12/08.md).
1CO 12 12 j3xl 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to talk of the variety of gifts God gives believers, God gives different gifts to different believers, but Paul wants them to know that all believers are made into one body, which is called the body of Christ. For this reason believers should have unity.
1CO 12 13 g8uk figs-activepassive ἐν ἑνὶ Πνεύματι ἡμεῖς πάντες…ἐβαπτίσθημεν 1 For by one Spirit we were all baptized This could mean: (1) the Holy Spirit is the one who baptizes us. Alternate translation: “one Spirit baptized us” (2) the Spirit, like the water of baptism, is the medium through which we are baptized into the body. Alternate translation: “God baptized is all with the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 13 r9hm figs-metonymy εἴτε…δοῦλοι, εἴτε ἐλεύθεροι 3 whether bound or free Here, **bound** is a metonym for “enslaved.” Alternate translation: “whether slave-people or free-people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 12 13 r5kw figs-metaphor πάντες ἓν Πνεῦμα ἐποτίσθημεν 1 all were made to drink of one Spirit Here the **Spirit** is spoken of as something that a person can drink. Alternate translation: “we were made to drink the Spirit as people might share a drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 12 13 ju15 figs-activepassive πάντες ἓν Πνεῦμα ἐποτίσθημεν 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God gave all of us the same Spirit to drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 17 rsl6 figs-rquestion εἰ ὅλον τὸ σῶμα ὀφθαλμός, ποῦ ἡ ἀκοή? εἰ ὅλον ἀκοή, ποῦ ἡ ὄσφρησις? 1 where would the sense of hearing be? … where would the sense of smell be? Paul asks these two questions to help the Corinthians to realize the importance of each part of the body. You can translate these as statements. Alternate translation: “If your whole body were an eye, you would not be able to hear anything! If your whole were an ear, you would not be able to smell anything!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 19 y4vg figs-rquestion εἰ δὲ ἦν τὰ πάντα ἓν μέλος, ποῦ τὸ σῶμα? 1 where would the body be? Paul asks this question to help the Corinthians to understand that the body must have many different kinds of members. You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “But if all the parts of the body were the same, there would be no body!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 19 zw6k τὰ…ἓν μέλος 1 the same member The word **member** is a general word for the parts of the body, like the head, arm, or knee. Alternate translation: “the same part of the body”
1CO 12 23 id5z figs-euphemism τὰ ἀσχήμονα ἡμῶν 1 our unpresentable members Here, **unpresentable members** probably refers to the private parts of the body, which people keep covered. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 12 26 da97 figs-activepassive δοξάζεται μέλος 1 one member is honored You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “someone gives honor to one member” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 28 ll3s πρῶτον ἀποστόλους 1 first apostles This could mean: (1) the first gift Paul will mention is apostles. (2) the most important gift Paul will mention is apostles.
1CO 12 28 w726 γένη γλωσσῶν 1 those who have various kinds of tongues people who can speak in one or more foreign languages without having studied that language
1CO 12 29 aq64 figs-rquestion μὴ πάντες ἀπόστολοι? μὴ πάντες προφῆται? μὴ πάντες διδάσκαλοι? μὴ πάντες δυνάμεις? 1 Are all of them apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all do powerful deeds? Paul uses these questions to remind his readers of what they already know. Alternate translation: “Only some of them are apostles. Only some of them are prophets. Only some of them are teachers. Only some of them do powerful deeds.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 30 p919 figs-rquestion μὴ πάντες χαρίσματα ἔχουσιν ἰαμάτων? μὴ πάντες γλώσσαις λαλοῦσιν? μὴ πάντες διερμηνεύουσιν? 1 Do all of them have gifts of healing? Paul continues to use questions to remind his readers of what they already know. Alternate translation: “Only some have gifts of healing. Only some speak with tongues. Only some interpret tongues.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 30 ab9e διερμηνεύουσιν 1 interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 12 31 vb1m ζηλοῦτε…τὰ χαρίσματα τὰ μείζονα 1 earnestly desire the greater gifts. This could mean: (1) they must eagerly seek from God the gifts that best help the church. (2) they are eagerly looking for gifts that they think are greater because they think those are more exciting to have.
1CO 13 intro abcg 0 # 1 Corinthians 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul seems to interrupt his teaching about spiritual gifts. However, this chapter probably serves a larger function in his teaching.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Love<br><br>Love is the most important characteristic of the believer. This chapter fully describes love. Paul tells why love is more important than the gifts of the Spirit. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>Paul uses many different metaphors in this chapter. He uses these metaphors to instruct the Corinthians, especially on difficult topics. Readers often need spiritual discernment to understand these teachings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 13 1 cm2n figs-hyperbole ταῖς γλώσσαις…τῶν ἀγγέλων 1 the tongues of … angels This could mean: (1) Paul is exaggerating for the sake of effect and does not believe that people speak the language that angels use. (2) Paul thinks that some who speak in tongues actually speak the language that angels use. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 13 1 k2gk figs-metaphor γέγονα χαλκὸς ἠχῶν ἢ κύμβαλον ἀλαλάζον 1 I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal A person speaking without love is compared to musical instruments that make loud, annoying sounds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 13 1 krt1 translate-unknown χαλκὸς 1 gong A **gong** is a large, thin, round metal plate that is hit with a padded stick to make a loud sound. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 13 1 qbx6 translate-unknown κύμβαλον ἀλαλάζον 1 a clanging cymbal A **cymbal** is a thin, round metal plate that is hit with something—or two cymbals are struck together—to make a loud sound. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 13 3 ar2q figs-explicit παραδῶ τὸ σῶμά μου 1 I give my body The phrase **had over my body** refers to giving up one's own body to be abused or killed. Alternate translation: “I allow people to persecute or kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 13 4 m671 figs-personification ἡ ἀγάπη μακροθυμεῖ, χρηστεύεται; ἡ ἀγάπη οὐ ζηλοῖ; ἡ ἀγάπη οὐ περπερεύεται, οὐ φυσιοῦται 1 Love is patient and kind … It is not arrogant Here Paul speaks about **Love** as if it were a person who could do these actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 5 cp6x figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 5 xt3v figs-activepassive οὐ παροξύνεται 1 It is not easily angered You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will be able to make it angry quickly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 13 6 wl5y figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 6 tpz6 figs-doublenegatives οὐ χαίρει ἐπὶ τῇ ἀδικίᾳ, συνχαίρει δὲ τῇ ἀληθείᾳ 1 It does not rejoice in unrighteousness. Instead, it rejoices in the truth You can state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “It rejoices only in righteousness and truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 13 7 vf6x figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 12 bn3h βλέπομεν γὰρ ἄρτι δι’ ἐσόπτρου ἐν αἰνίγματι 1 For now we see indirectly in a mirror In Paul’s day, a **mirror** was made of polished metal rather than glass and provided a dim, vague reflection.
1CO 13 12 xx1g figs-ellipsis τότε δὲ πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον 1 but then face to face The words “we will see” are implied here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 13 12 tjq9 figs-synecdoche τότε δὲ πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον 1 Here, **face to face** means that we will be physically present with Christ. Alternate translation: “but then we will see Christ face to face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 13 12 qp7g figs-ellipsis ἐπιγνώσομαι 1 I will know fully The word “Christ” is understood. Alternate translation: “I will know Christ fully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 13 12 i28w figs-activepassive καθὼς καὶ ἐπεγνώσθην 1 just as I have also been fully known You can state this as active. Alternate translation: “just as Christ has known me fully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 13 13 nt1y figs-abstractnouns πίστις, ἐλπίς, ἀγάπη 1 faith, hope, and love The abstract nouns **faith**, **hope**, and **love** can be expressed in phrases with verbs. Alternate translation: “we must trust the Lord, be confident that he will do what he has promised, and love him and others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 14 intro abch 0 # 1 Corinthians 14 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter, Paul returns to discussing spiritual gifts.<br><br>Some translations set what is quoted from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the words of verse 21.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Tongues<br><br>Scholars disagree on the exact meaning of the gift of tongues. Paul describes the gift of tongues as a sign for unbelievers. It does not serve the whole church, unless someone interprets what is spoken. It is very important that the church uses this gift properly.<br><br>### Prophecy<br><br>Scholars disagree on the exact meaning of prophecy as a spiritual gift. Paul says prophets can build up the entire church. He describes prophecy as a gift for believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
1CO 14 1 vl57 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants them to know that though teaching is more important because it instructs people, it must be done with love.
1CO 14 1 x938 figs-personification διώκετε τὴν ἀγάπην 1 Pursue love Paul speaks of **love** as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “Follow after love” or “Work hard to love people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 14 1 ki3l μᾶλλον…ἵνα προφητεύητε 1 especially that you may prophesy “work especially hard to be able to prophesy”
1CO 14 3 r1nx figs-metaphor οἰκοδομὴν 1 to build them up Here, **building up** represents helping people become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “for strengthening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 4 b2mg figs-metaphor ἑαυτὸν οἰκοδομεῖ 1 builds up Here, **builds up** represents helping himself become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “strengthens himself in the faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 5 z5my figs-synecdoche μείζων δὲ ὁ προφητεύων 1 Now the one who prophesies is greater Paul is emphasizing that the gift of prophecy is greater than the gift of speaking in tongues. Alternate translation: “The one who prophesies has a greater gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 14 5 g9k1 διερμηνεύῃ 1 he would interpret This means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 6 l71k figs-rquestion ἐὰν ἔλθω πρὸς ὑμᾶς γλώσσαις λαλῶν, τί ὑμᾶς ὠφελήσω, ἐὰν μὴ ὑμῖν λαλήσω, ἢ ἐν ἀποκαλύψει, ἢ ἐν γνώσει, ἢ ἐν προφητείᾳ, ἢ διδαχῇ? 1 how will I benefit you? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “if I come to you speaking in tongues, I will not benefit you, unless I speak to you either in revelation or in knowledge or in prophecy or teaching.” or “if I come to you speaking in tongues, I will not have done anything that helps you, unless I speak to you either in revelation or in knowledge or in prophecy or teaching.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 7 t3rb διαστολὴν τοῖς φθόγγοις μὴ δῷ 1 they do not make different sounds Here, **sounds** refers to different pitches that make up the melody, not to the difference between a flute sound and a harp sound.
1CO 14 7 hq2u figs-rquestion ἐὰν διαστολὴν τοῖς φθόγγοις μὴ δῷ, πῶς γνωσθήσεται τὸ αὐλούμενον ἢ τὸ κιθαριζόμενον? 1 how will it be known what is being played on the flute Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this themselves. Alternate translation: “if they would not give different sounds, no one will know what tune the flute or harp is playing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 8 z6jg figs-rquestion ἐὰν ἄδηλον σάλπιγξ φωνὴν δῷ, τίς παρασκευάσεται εἰς πόλεμον? 1 who will prepare for battle? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this themselves. Alternate translation: “if a trumpet gives an uncertain sound, no one would know when it is time to prepare for battle.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 10 im7a figs-doublenegatives οὐδὲν ἄφωνον 1 none is without meaning You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “they all have meaning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 14 12 j1h7 figs-metaphor πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας, ζητεῖτε ἵνα περισσεύητε 1 try to excel in the gifts that build up the church Paul speaks of the **church** as if it were a house that one could build and of the work of building the church as if it were something one could harvest. Alternate translation: “to succeed greatly in making God’s people more able to serve God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 13 j87g διερμηνεύῃ 1 interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 14 kjh6 figs-metaphor ὁ…νοῦς μου ἄκαρπός ἐστιν 1 my mind is unfruitful The mind not understanding what is being prayed and, therefore, receiving no benefit from the prayer is spoken of as if the **mind is unfruitful**. Alternate translation: “I do not understand it in my mind” or “my mind does not benefit from the prayer, because I do not understand the words I am saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 15 vm6p figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν? 1 What should I do? Paul is introducing his conclusion. Alternate translation: “This is what I will do.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 15 r11f προσεύξομαι τῷ Πνεύματι, προσεύξομαι δὲ καὶ τῷ νοΐ. ψαλῶ τῷ Πνεύματι, ψαλῶ δὲ καὶ τῷ νοΐ 1 pray with my spirit … pray with my mind … sing with my spirit … sing with my mind Prayers and songs must be in a language that the people present can understand.
1CO 14 16 niu5 figs-you εὐλογῇς…τῇ σῇ εὐχαριστίᾳ…λέγεις 1 you praise God … you are giving thanks … you are saying Though **you** and **your** are singular here, Paul is addressing everyone who prays only in the spirit, but not with the mind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 14 16 r4w5 figs-rquestion ἐὰν εὐλογῇς πνεύματι, ὁ ἀναπληρῶν τὸν τόπον τοῦ ἰδιώτου, πῶς ἐρεῖ, τὸ ἀμήν, ἐπὶ τῇ σῇ εὐχαριστίᾳ, ἐπειδὴ τί λέγεις, οὐκ οἶδεν? 1 how will the outsider say “Amen” … saying? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “if you bless with the spirit, the outsider will never be able to say ‘Amen’ at your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 17 a7wr figs-you σὺ μὲν…εὐχαριστεῖς 1 you certainly give Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **you** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 14 17 w25k figs-metaphor ὁ ἕτερος οὐκ οἰκοδομεῖται 1 the other person is not built up Building people up represents helping them become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “the other person is not strengthened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 17 m7cj figs-activepassive ἀλλ’ ὁ ἕτερος οὐκ οἰκοδομεῖται 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “what you say does not strengthen any outsider who might hear you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 19 cbw8 figs-hyperbole ἢ μυρίους λόγους 1 than ten thousand words in a tongue Paul was not counting **words**, but used exaggeration to emphasize that a few understandable words are far more valuable than even a great number of words in a language that people cannot understand. Alternate translation: “10,000 words” or “a great many words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 14 20 luu4 0 General Information: Paul tells them that speaking in different languages was told ahead of time by the prophet Isaiah many years before this speaking in other languages happened at the start of Christ’s church.
1CO 14 20 mh5t figs-metaphor μὴ παιδία γίνεσθε ταῖς φρεσίν 1 do not be children in your thinking Here, **children** is a metaphor for being spiritually immature. Alternate translation: “do not think like children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 21 jx6l figs-activepassive ἐν τῷ νόμῳ γέγραπται 1 In the law it is written, You can state this in active form: Alternate translation: “The prophet wrote these words in the law:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 21 l9xz figs-parallelism ἐν ἑτερογλώσσοις καὶ ἐν χείλεσιν ἑτέρων 1 By men of strange tongues and by the lips of strangers These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are used together for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 14 22 qj5f figs-doublenegatives οὐ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν, ἀλλὰ τοῖς ἀπίστοις 1 not for unbelievers, but for believers This can be expressed positively and combined with the other positive statement. Alternate translation: “only for believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 14 23 hj3d figs-rquestion οὐκ ἐροῦσιν ὅτι μαίνεσθε? 1 would they not say that you are insane? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “they would say that you are insane.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 24 xxy5 figs-parallelism ἐλέγχεται ὑπὸ πάντων, ἀνακρίνεται ὑπὸ πάντων 1 he would be convicted by all and examined by all Paul says basically the same thing twice for emphasis. Alternate translation: “he would realize that he is guilty of sin because he hears what you are saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 14 25 ma47 figs-metonymy τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς καρδίας αὐτοῦ φανερὰ γίνεται 1 The secrets of his heart would be revealed Here, **heart** is a metonym for a person’s thoughts. Alternate translation: “his own private inner thoughts will be revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 14 25 l62f figs-activepassive τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς καρδίας αὐτοῦ φανερὰ γίνεται 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God would reveal to him the secrets of his heart” or “He would recognize his own private inner thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 25 w31w figs-idiom πεσὼν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον, προσκυνήσει τῷ Θεῷ 1 he would fall on his face and worship God Here, **having fallen on his face** is an idiom, meaning he has bowed down. Alternate translation: “he would bow down and worship God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 14 26 bv9k figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν, ἀδελφοί? 1 What is tp be then, brothers? Paul uses a question to introduce the next part of his message. Alternate translation: “Because everything I have just told you is true, this is what you need to do, my fellow believers.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 26 xzz2 ἑρμηνίαν 1 interpretation Here, an **interpretation** means a telling of what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how “interpret” is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 27 ari2 διερμηνευέτω 1 must interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how “interpret” is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 29 a9iz προφῆται…δύο ἢ τρεῖς λαλείτωσαν 1 Let two or three prophets speak This could mean: (1) only two or three prophets should speak at any one meeting. (2) only two or three prophets should take turns speaking at any one time.
1CO 14 30 sl1q figs-activepassive ἐὰν…ἄλλῳ ἀποκαλυφθῇ 1 if a revelation is given to another You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “if God gives insight to another person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 31 nrq1 figs-activepassive πάντες…παρακαλῶνται 3 all may be encouraged You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “you may encourage all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 33 my65 οὐ…ἐστιν ἀκαταστασίας ὁ Θεὸς 1 God is not a God of confusion God does not create confusing situations by making people all speak at the same time.
1CO 14 34 gjv2 αἱ γυναῖκες…σιγάτωσαν 1 let be silent This could mean: (1) they should stop speaking. (2) they should stop speaking when someone is prophesying. (3) they should be absolutely silent during the church service.
1CO 14 36 h8lp figs-rquestion ἢ ἀφ’ ὑμῶν ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐξῆλθεν, ἢ εἰς ὑμᾶς μόνους κατήντησεν? 1 Did the word of God come from you? Are you the only ones it has reached? Paul uses these questions to emphasize that the Corinthians are not the only ones who understand what God wants Christians to do. Alternate translation: “The word of God did not come from you in Corinth; you are not the only people who understand God’s will.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 36 mj6b figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God Here, the **word of God** is a metonym for the message from God. Alternate translation: “God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 14 39 jvr7 τὸ λαλεῖν μὴ κωλύετε γλώσσαις 1 do not forbid anyone from speaking in tongues Paul makes it clear that speaking in tongues at a church gathering is permissible and acceptable.
1CO 14 40 d7ia figs-activepassive πάντα δὲ εὐσχημόνως καὶ κατὰ τάξιν γινέσθω 1 But let all things be done properly and in order Paul is stressing that church gatherings should be held in an orderly manner. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “But do all things properly and in order” or “But do everything in an orderly, appropriate way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 intro abci 0 # 1 Corinthians 15 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### Resurrection<br><br>This chapter includes a very important teaching about the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek people did not believe that a person could live after they died. Paul defends the resurrection of Jesus. He teaches why it is important to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/resurrection]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Resurrection<br><br>Paul presents the resurrection as the ultimate proof that Jesus is God. Christ is the first of many who God will raise to life. The resurrection is central to the gospel. Few doctrines are as important as this one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/raise]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>Paul uses many different figures of speech in this chapter. He uses them to express difficult theological teachings in a way that people can understand.
1CO 15 1 gc6n 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds them that it is the gospel that saves them and he tells them again what the gospel is. Then he gives them a short history lesson, which ends with what will yet happen.
1CO 15 1 la9v γνωρίζω…ὑμῖν 1 make known to you “I am helping you remember”
1CO 15 1 xv53 figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ καὶ ἑστήκατε 1 on which you stand Paul is speaking of the Corinthians as if they were a house and the gospel as if it were the foundation on which the house was standing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 2 xh29 figs-activepassive σῴζεσθε 1 you are being saved You can state this in active form. “God is saving you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 2 le2k τίνι λόγῳ εὐηγγελισάμην ὑμῖν 1 the word I preached to you “to the message I preached to you”
1CO 15 3 sp4p ἐν πρώτοις 1 as of first importance This could mean: (1) this is the most important of many things. (2) this is the first in time (3) this was done previously.
1CO 15 4 wa7m figs-activepassive ἐτάφη 1 he was buried You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “they buried him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 4 n7c7 figs-activepassive ἐγήγερται 1 he was raised You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God raised him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 5 rhd3 0 Connecting Statement: If you need for verse 5 to be a complete sentence, end [1 Corinthians 15:4](../15/04.md) with a comma so that verse 5 completes the sentence begun in [1 Corinthians 15:3](../15/03.md).
1CO 15 5 q3nb ὤφθη Κηφᾷ 1 he appeared “showed himself to Cephas”
1CO 15 6 q8bl figs-euphemism τινὲς…ἐκοιμήθησαν 1 some have fallen asleep Here, **have fallen asleep** is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: “some have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 15 8 n9c6 ἔσχατον…πάντων 1 Last of all “finally, after he had appeared to the others”
1CO 15 8 vg7t figs-idiom τῷ ἐκτρώματι 1 a child born at the wrong time This is an idiom by which Paul may mean that he became a Christian much later than the other apostles. Or perhaps he means that, unlike the other apostles, he did not witness Jesus’ three-year-long ministry. Alternate translation: “someone who missed the experiences of the others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 10 n45h figs-litotes ἡ χάρις αὐτοῦ ἡ εἰς ἐμὲ, οὐ κενὴ ἐγενήθη 1 his grace in me was not in vain Paul is emphasizing through litotes that God worked through Paul. Alternate translation: “because he was kind to me, I was able to do much good work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 15 10 xh95 figs-metaphor ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ σὺν ἐμοί 1 the grace of God that is with me Paul speaks of the work he was able to do because **God** was kind to him as if that **grace** were actually doing the work. Alternate translation: This could mean: (1) this is literally true, and God actually did the work and kindly used Paul as a tool. (2) Paul is using a metaphor and saying that God was kind to let Paul do the work and to make Paul’s work have good results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 12 ub2p figs-rquestion πῶς λέγουσιν ἐν ὑμῖν τινες, ὅτι ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν οὐκ ἔστιν? 1 how can some of you say there is no resurrection of the dead? Paul is using this question to begin a new topic. Alternate translation: “you should not be saying that there is no resurrection of the dead!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 12 jbi8 ἐγήγερται 1 raised he was made alive again
1CO 15 13 cn2m figs-hypo εἰ…ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν οὐκ ἔστιν, οὐδὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται 1 if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised Paul is using a hypothetical case to argue that there is a **resurrection of the dead**. He knows that **Christ has been raised** and so infers that there is a resurrection. To say that there is no resurrection is to say that Christ has not been raised, but this is false because Paul has seen the resurrected Christ ([1 Corinthians 15:8](../15/08.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 15 13 mi12 figs-activepassive οὐδὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται 1 not even Christ has been raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has not even raised Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 15 ctn5 εὑρισκόμεθα…ψευδομάρτυρες τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 we are found to be false witnesses about God Paul is arguing that if Christ did not rise from the dead, then they are bearing false witness or lying about Christ’s coming alive again.
1CO 15 15 aq5s figs-activepassive εὑρισκόμεθα 1 we are found to be You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “everyone will realize that we are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 17 v6vz ματαία ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, ἔτι ἐστὲ ἐν ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν 1 your faith is in vain and you are still in your sins Their faith is based on Christ having risen from the dead, so if that did not happen, their faith will do them no good.
1CO 15 19 d9nq πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 of all people “of everyone, including believers and non-believers”
1CO 15 19 ts7u ἐλεεινότεροι πάντων ἀνθρώπων ἐσμέν 1 of all people we are most to be pitied “people should feel sorry for us more than they do for anyone else”
1CO 15 20 zw31 figs-metaphor ἀπαρχὴ 1 the firstfruits Here, **firstfruit** is a metaphor, comparing Christ to the first of the harvest, which would be followed by the rest of the harvest. Christ was the first to be raised from the dead. Alternate translation: “who is like the first part of the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 20 n6cl figs-idiom Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruit of those who have fallen asleep Here, **has been raised** is an idiom for “caused to live again.” Alternate translation: “Christ has been caused to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 20 a385 figs-activepassive Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has raised Christ from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 21 uca8 figs-abstractnouns δι’ ἀνθρώπου θάνατος 1 death came by a man The abstract noun **death** can be expressed with the verb “die.” Alternate translation. “people die because of what one man did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 15 21 gf8p figs-abstractnouns καὶ δι’ ἀνθρώπου ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν 1 by a man also came the resurrection of the dead The abstract noun **resurrection** can be expressed with the verb “raise.” Alternate translation: “people are raised from the dead because of another man” or “people will become alive again because of what one man did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 15 23 p4g9 figs-metaphor ἀπαρχὴ 1 the firstfruits Here, **firstfruit** is a metaphor, comparing Christ to the first of the harvest, which would be followed by the rest of the harvest. Christ was the first to be raised from the dead. Alternate translation: “who is like the first part of the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 24 uwh3 καταργήσῃ πᾶσαν ἀρχὴν, καὶ πᾶσαν ἐξουσίαν, καὶ δύναμιν 1 he will abolish all rule and all authority and power “he will stop those people who rule, who have authority, and who have power from doing what they are doing”
1CO 15 25 t8mk figs-idiom ἄχρι οὗ θῇ πάντας τοὺς ἐχθροὺς ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ 1 until he has put all his enemies under his feet Kings who won wars would put their **feet** on the necks of those whom they had defeated. Alternate translation: “until God has completely destroyed all of Christ’s enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 26 x49h figs-personification ἔσχατος ἐχθρὸς καταργεῖται ὁ θάνατος 1 The last enemy to be destroyed is death Paul speaks of **death** here as if it were a person whom God will kill. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 15 26 n32f figs-activepassive ἔσχατος ἐχθρὸς καταργεῖται ὁ θάνατος 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “The final enemy that God will destroy is death itself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 27 df59 figs-idiom πάντα…ὑπέταξεν ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ 1 he has put everything under his feet Kings who won wars would put their **feet** on the necks of those whom they had defeated. See how “put … under his feet” is translated in [1 Corinthians 15:25](../15/25.md). Alternate translation: “God has completely destroyed all of Christ’s enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 28 xm8u figs-activepassive ὑποταγῇ αὐτῷ τὰ πάντα 1 all things are subjected to him This can stated as active. Alternate translation: “God has made all things subject to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 28 a1cd figs-activepassive αὐτὸς ὁ Υἱὸς, ὑποταγήσεται 1 the Son himself will be subjected This can stated as active. Alternate translation: “the Son himself will become subject” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 28 ksj4 αὐτὸς ὁ Υἱὸς 1 the Son himself In the previous verses he was referred to as “Christ.” Alternate translation: “Christ, that is, the Son himself”
1CO 15 28 im2j guidelines-sonofgodprinciples ὁ Υἱὸς 1 the Son This is an important title that describes the relationship between Jesus and God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1CO 15 29 a4d4 figs-rquestion ἐπεὶ τί ποιήσουσιν, οἱ βαπτιζόμενοι ὑπὲρ τῶν νεκρῶν? 1 Or else what will those do who are baptized for the dead? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “Otherwise it would be useless for Christians to receive baptism for the dead.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 29 lw86 figs-hypo εἰ ὅλως νεκροὶ οὐκ ἐγείρονται, τί καὶ βαπτίζονται ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν? 1 If the dead are not raised at all, why are they baptized for them? Paul uses a hypothetical situation to argue that the dead are raised. To say that **the dead are not raised** is to say that people should not be baptized for the dead. But some people, probably some members of the church in Corinth, are baptized for the dead, so he infers those people are baptized for the dead because they believe that the dead are raised. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 15 29 jdc9 figs-activepassive νεκροὶ οὐκ ἐγείρονται 1 the dead are not raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God does not raise the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 29 s7kx figs-rquestion τί καὶ βαπτίζονται ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν 1 why then are they baptized for them? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “there would be no reason for them to have people baptize them on behalf of dead people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 30 h4ra figs-rquestion τί καὶ ἡμεῖς κινδυνεύομεν πᾶσαν ὥραν? 1 Why then, are we in danger every hour? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “We gain nothing by being in danger every hour.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 30 t593 figs-explicit τί καὶ ἡμεῖς κινδυνεύομεν πᾶσαν ὥραν? 1 The reason he and others were in danger is that some people were angry that they taught that Jesus will raise people from death. Alternate translation: “If people will not rise from the dead, we gain nothing by being in danger every hour for teaching that people will rise.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 31 i7d7 figs-hyperbole καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω 1 I die every day! This exaggeration means he was in danger of dying. He knew that some people wanted to kill him because they did not like what he was teaching. Alternate translation: “Every day I am in danger of dying” or “Every day I risk my life!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 15 31 d51t καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω, νὴ τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν 1 I swear by my boasting in you Paul uses this statement as evidence that he faces death every day. Alternate translation: “You can know I die every day, because you know about my boasting in you”
1CO 15 31 znl3 figs-explicit τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν, ἀδελφοί, ἣν ἔχω ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, τῷ Κυρίῳ ἡμῶν 1 my boasting in you, brothers, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord Paul boasted in them because of what Christ Jesus had done for him. Alternate translation: “my boasting in you, which I do because of my relationship with Christ Jesus our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 31 p3ym τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν 1 my boasting in you “telling other people how good you are”
1CO 15 32 q6mb figs-rquestion εἰ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον, ἐθηριομάχησα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ, τί μοι τὸ ὄφελος? 1 What do I gain … if I fought with beasts at Ephesus … not raised Paul wants the Corinthians to understand without him having to tell them. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “If Christ was not raised, I gained nothing, according to the opinion of most people, by fighting with beasts at Ephesus.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 32 lm3v figs-metaphor ἐθηριομάχησα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ 1 I fought with beasts at Ephesus This could mean: (1) Paul was speaking figuratively about his arguments with learned pagans or other conflicts with people who wanted to kill him. (2) Paul was actually put into the arena to fight against dangerous animals. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 32 c36a φάγωμεν καὶ πίωμεν, αὔριον γὰρ ἀποθνῄσκομεν 1 Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die Paul concludes that if there is no further life after death, it is better for us to enjoy this life as we can, for tomorrow our life will end without any further hope.
1CO 15 33 q7uc φθείρουσιν ἤθη χρηστὰ ὁμιλίαι κακαί 1 Bad company corrupts good morals If you live with bad people, you will act like them. Paul is quoting a common saying.
1CO 15 34 gr3v ἐκνήψατε 1 Sober up “You must think seriously about this”
1CO 15 35 w4hk 0 Connecting Statement: Paul gives some specifics about how the resurrection of the believers’ bodies will take place. He gives a picture of natural and spiritual bodies and compares the first man Adam with the last Adam, Christ.
1CO 15 35 hw4a figs-rquestion ἀλλ’ ἐρεῖ τις, πῶς ἐγείρονται οἱ νεκροί? ποίῳ δὲ σώματι ἔρχονται? 1 But someone will say, “How are the dead raised, and with what kind of body will they come?” This could mean: (1) the person is asking sincerely. (2) the person is using the question to mock the idea of a resurrection. Alternate translation: “But some will say that they cannot imagine how God will raise the dead, and what kind of body God would give them in the resurrection.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 35 e5lv ποίῳ…σώματι ἔρχονται 1 with what kind of body will they come That is, will it be a physical body or a spiritual body? What shape will the body have? What will the body be made of? Translate using the most general question that someone who wants to know the answers to these questions would ask.
1CO 15 36 ha84 figs-you ἄφρων! σὺ ὃ σπείρεις 1 You are so foolish! What you sow Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so both instances of **you** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 15 36 q2zd figs-metaphor ὃ σπείρεις, οὐ ζῳοποιεῖται, ἐὰν μὴ ἀποθάνῃ 1 What you sow will not start to grow unless it dies A seed will not grow unless it is first buried underground. In the same way, a person has to die before God can resurrect him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 37 pw6v figs-metaphor ὃ σπείρεις, οὐ τὸ σῶμα τὸ γενησόμενον 1 What you sow is not the body that will be Paul uses the metaphor of the seed again to say that God will resurrect the dead body of the believer, but that body will not appear as it was. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 37 h6zi figs-you ὃ σπείρεις 1 What you sow Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **you** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 15 40 d9k2 σώματα ἐπουράνια 1 heavenly bodies This could refer to: (1) the sun, moon, stars, and other visible lights in the sky. (2) heavenly beings, such as angels and other supernatural beings.
1CO 15 40 qg3p ἑτέρα μὲν ἡ τῶν ἐπουρανίων δόξα, ἑτέρα δὲ ἡ τῶν ἐπιγείων 1 the glory of the heavenly body is one kind and the glory of the earthly is another “the glory that heavenly bodies have is different from the glory of human bodies”
1CO 15 42 s12t figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 What is sown … what is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is scattered on the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 42 b6ob figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “What goes into the ground … what comes out of the ground” or “What people bury … what God raises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 42 rw3k ἐν φθορᾷ, ἐγείρεται ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ 1 in decay … in immortality “that can rot, cannot rot when it is raised”
1CO 15 43 h4u5 figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 It is sown … it is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is scattered on the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 43 zo03 figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “It goes into the ground … it comes out of the ground” or “People bury it … God raises it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 44 u856 figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 It is sown … it is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is planted in the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 44 b4dm figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “It goes into the ground … it comes out of the ground” or “People bury it … God raises it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 46 fc51 ἀλλ’ οὐ πρῶτον τὸ πνευματικὸν, ἀλλὰ τὸ ψυχικόν, ἔπειτα τὸ πνευματικόν 1 But the spiritual did not come first but the natural, and then the spiritual “The natural being came first. The spiritual being is from God and came later.”
1CO 15 47 m2pj figs-explicit ὁ πρῶτος ἄνθρωπος ἐκ γῆς, χοϊκός 1 The first man is of the earth, made of dust God made the **first man**, Adam, from the **dust** of the **earth**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 48 r9be figs-explicit ὁ ἐπουράνιος 1 ὁ ἐπουράνιος This refers to Jesus Christ, who is from heaven. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 48 s9pn οἱ ἐπουράνιοι 1 those who are of heaven “those who belong to God”
1CO 15 49 mq8z εἰκόνα τοῦ χοϊκοῦ, φορέσωμεν καὶ τὴν εἰκόνα τοῦ ἐπουρανίου 1 have borne the image … will also bear the image “have been just like Adam, we will also be just like Jesus”
1CO 15 50 jub2 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants them to realize that some believers will not die physically but will still get a resurrected body through Christ’s victory.
1CO 15 50 mwy3 figs-parallelism σὰρξ καὶ αἷμα Βασιλείαν Θεοῦ κληρονομῆσαι οὐ δύναται, οὐδὲ ἡ φθορὰ, τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν κληρονομεῖ 1 flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Neither does what is perishable inherit what is imperishable This could mean: (1) the two sentences mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “human beings who will surely die cannot inherit the permanent kingdom of God” (2) the second sentence finishes the thought begun by the first. Alternate translation: “weak human beings cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Neither do those who will certainly die inherit a kingdom that will last forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 15 50 e4gd figs-metaphor κληρονομῆσαι 1 inherit Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 50 b9hc ἡ φθορὰ, τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν 1 the perishable … the imperishable “what can rot … what cannot rot.” See how these words are translated in [1 Corinthians 15:42](../15/42.md).
1CO 15 51 k5dw figs-activepassive πάντες…ἀλλαγησόμεθα 2 we will all be changed You can state this as active. Alternate translation: “God will change us all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 52 p8f8 figs-activepassive ἀλλαγησόμεθα 1 We will be changed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will change us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 52 h668 figs-metaphor ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ σάλπιγγι 1 at the last trumpet Here, the **last trumpet** refers to the sounding of trumpets before the return of Christ and the final judgment of those who have not believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “when the last trumpet sounds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 52 l66q figs-activepassive οἱ νεκροὶ ἐγερθήσονται 1 the dead will be raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will raise the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 53 nua2 τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο…ἀφθαρσίαν 1 this perishable body … is imperishable “this body that can rot … the inability to rot.” See how similar phrases are translated in [1 Corinthians 15:42](../15/42.md).
1CO 15 53 iyd2 figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθαι ἀφθαρσίαν 1 must put on Paul is speaking of God making our bodies so they will never die again as if God were putting new clothes on us. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 54 qq5m figs-personification τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀφθαρσίαν, καὶ τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀθανασίαν 1 when this perishable body has put on what is imperishable Here the body is spoken of as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 15 54 od10 figs-metaphor τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀφθαρσίαν 1 Here becoming **imperishable** is spoken of as if being imperishable was clothing that a body would wear. Alternate translation: “when this perishable body has become imperishable” or “when this body that can rot can no longer rot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 54 j9zs figs-metaphor τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀθανασίαν 1 this mortal body has put on immortality Here becoming immortal is spoken of as if being immortal was clothing that a body would wear. Alternate translation: “when this mortal body has become immortal” or “when this body that can die can no longer die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 55 c9zw figs-apostrophe θάνατε 1 Death, where is your victory? Death, where is your sting? Paul speaks as if death were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
1CO 15 55 pdxo figs-rquestion ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ νῖκος? ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ κέντρον? 1 Paul uses this question to mock the power of death, which Christ has defeated. Alternate translation: “Death has no victory. Death has no sting.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 56 iyd3 τὸ…κέντρον τοῦ θανάτου ἡ ἁμαρτία 1 the sting of death is sin It is through **sin** that we are destined to face **death**, that is, to die.
1CO 15 56 pf4e ἡ…δύναμις τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ νόμος 2 the power of sin is the law God’s law that was passed down by Moses defines sin and shows us how we sin before God.
1CO 15 57 ztj6 τῷ διδόντι ἡμῖν τὸ νῖκος 1 gives us the victory “who has defeated death for us”
1CO 15 58 k4c4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants believers, while they work for the Lord, to remember the changed, resurrected bodies that God is going to give them.
1CO 15 58 j1pl figs-metaphor ἑδραῖοι γίνεσθε, ἀμετακίνητοι 1 be steadfast and immovable Paul speaks of someone who lets nothing stop him from carrying out his decisions as if he could not be physically moved. Alternate translation: “be determined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 58 zn8f figs-metaphor περισσεύοντες ἐν τῷ ἔργῳ τοῦ Κυρίου πάντοτε 1 Always abound in the work of the Lord Paul speaks of efforts made in working for the Lord as if they were objects that a person could acquire more of. Alternate translation: “Always work for the Lord faithfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 intro abcj 0 # 1 Corinthians 16 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul briefly covers many topics in this chapter. It was common in the ancient Near East for the last part of letters to have personal greetings.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Preparation for his coming<br><br>Paul gave practical instructions to help prepare the Corinthian church for his visit. He told them to start collecting money every Sunday for the believers in Jerusalem. He hoped to come and spend the winter with them. He told them to help Timothy when he came. He had hoped Apollos would go to them, but Apollos did not think it was the right time. Paul also told them to obey Stephanus. Finally, he sent his greetings to everyone.
1CO 16 1 zh6u 0 Connecting Statement: In his closing notes, Paul reminds the Corinthian believers to collect money for the needy believers in Jerusalem. He reminds them that Timothy will come to them before he goes to Paul.
1CO 16 2 wc3w ἵνα μὴ ὅταν ἔλθω, τότε λογεῖαι γίνωνται 1 so that there will be no collections when I come “so that you will not have to collect more money while I am with you”
1CO 16 3 yj6c οὓς ἐὰν δοκιμάσητε 1 whomever you approve Paul is telling the church to choose some of their own people to take their offering to Jerusalem. “whomever you choose” or “the people you appoint”
1CO 16 3 j612 δι’ ἐπιστολῶν…πέμψω 1 I will send with letters This could mean: (1) Paul will send with letters that he will write. (2) Paul will send with letters that they will write.
1CO 16 6 w94k ὑμεῖς με προπέμψητε, οὗ ἐὰν πορεύωμαι 1 you may help me on my way, wherever I go This means the Corinthians might give Paul money or other things he needs so that he and his ministry team could continue to travel.
1CO 16 7 xr88 figs-litotes οὐ θέλω…ὑμᾶς ἄρτι ἐν παρόδῳ ἰδεῖν 1 I do not wish to see you now Paul is stating that he wants to visit for a long time later, not just for a short time soon. You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “I want to spend a longer time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 16 8 qkw9 τῆς Πεντηκοστῆς 1 Pentecost Paul would stay in Ephesus until the festival of **Pentecost**, which came in May or June, 50 days after Passover. He would then travel through Macedonia, and later try to arrive in Corinth before winter started in November.
1CO 16 9 fyj3 figs-metaphor θύρα…ἀνέῳγεν μεγάλη καὶ ἐνεργής 1 a wide door has opened Paul speaks of the opportunity God has given him to win people to the gospel as if it were a **door** that God had opened so he could walk through it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 11 f4mw μή τις…αὐτὸν ἐξουθενήσῃ 1 Let no one despise him Because Timothy was much younger than Paul, sometimes he was not shown the respect he deserved as a minister of the gospel.
1CO 16 12 is6j figs-exclusive Ἀπολλῶ τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ 1 our brother Apollos Some languages such as English require the word **our** for clarity. If added, **you** would refer to Paul and his readers, so it is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 16 13 p2la figs-parallelism γρηγορεῖτε, στήκετε ἐν τῇ πίστει, ἀνδρίζεσθε, κραταιοῦσθε 1 Stay alert; stand firm in the faith; act like men; be strong Paul is describing what he wants the Corinthians to do as if he was giving four commands to soldiers in war. These four commands mean almost the same thing and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 16 13 ng8n figs-metaphor γρηγορεῖτε 1 Stay alert Paul speaks of people being aware of what is happening as if they were guards keeping watch over a city or vineyard. You can state this more clearly. Alternate translation: “Be careful whom you trust” or “Watch out for danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 13 uys8 figs-metaphor στήκετε ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 stand firm in the faith Paul speaks of people continuing to believe in Christ according to his teaching as if they were soldiers refusing to retreat when the enemy attacks. This could mean: (1) they should keep strongly believing what Paul and his companions have taught them. (2) they should keep strongly trusting in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 13 a3fs figs-metaphor ἀνδρίζεσθε 1 act like men In the society in which Paul and his audience lived, men usually provided for families by doing the heavy work and fighting against invaders. You can state this more clearly. Alternate translation: “be responsible” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 14 rij5 πάντα ὑμῶν ἐν ἀγάπῃ γινέσθω 1 Let all that you do be done in love “Everything you do, you should do because you love people” or “Everything you do, you should do because you love God”
1CO 16 15 fy4e 0 Connecting Statement: Paul begins to close his letter and sends greetings from other churches, as well as from Prisca, Aquila, and Paul himself.
1CO 16 15 asp2 translate-names τὴν οἰκίαν Στεφανᾶ 1 the household of Stephanas **Stephanas** was one of the first believers in the church at Corinth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 15 na2p translate-names Ἀχαΐας 1 Achaia **Achaia** is the name of a province in Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 17 iju8 Στεφανᾶ, καὶ Φορτουνάτου, καὶ Ἀχαϊκοῦ 1 Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus **Stephanas and Fortunatus** were either some of the first Corinthian believers or church elders who were co-workers with Paul.
1CO 16 17 e79z translate-names Στεφανᾶ, καὶ Φορτουνάτου, καὶ Ἀχαϊκοῦ 1 Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus **Stephanas and Fortunatus** are men’s names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 17 an3e τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα οὗτοι ἀνεπλήρωσαν 1 They have made up for your absence “they made up for the fact that you were not here”
1CO 16 21 izu6 ὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ, Παύλου 1 I, Paul, write this with my own hand Paul was making it clear that the instructions in this letter are from him, even though one of his co-laborers wrote what Paul was saying in the rest of the letter. Paul wrote this last part with his **own hand**.
1CO 16 22 c1kx ἤτω ἀνάθεμα 1 may he be accursed “may God curse him.” See how **accursed** was translated in [1 Corinthians 12:3](../12/03.md).
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