1 Corinthians 2:6-8 (WEL) Nevertheless, we speak wisdom to those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age nor of the rulers of this age who are gradually coming to nothing. 7 But we talk about God’s wisdom, [which was] kept secret in a mystery, which God already decided on before the world [began] for our glory. 8 Which none of the leaders of this age recognized because if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory.
V6 Nevertheless, we speak wisdom to those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age nor of the rulers of this age who are gradually coming to nothing.
Wisdom is knowledge (facts) + understanding (the how’s and why’s) = wisdom. Wisdom grows with experience.
There is worldly wisdom (James 3:13-16) , and there is spiritual wisdom (James 3:17-18). Much wisdom is found in the book of Proverbs.
Mature refers to Christians who have read, studied, and are living the truths of the Scriptures. Compare 1 Timothy 3:6.
No matter the number of earned doctorates, IQ, or extensive publications in various subjects, the world cannot understand the Gospel without the grace of God. In fact, this wisdom fades away into nothingness.
V7 But we talk about God’s wisdom, [which was] kept secret in a mystery, which God already decided on before the world [began] for our glory.
God’s wisdom is in love and holiness. It covers every conceivable topic that is holy—education, math, finances, science, the future, plans, communication, etc. See James 3:17-18.
Mystery in the Bible is not a hidden idea that must be searched to find the answer to a puzzle. Mystery in the Bible is a topic not completely understood until further revelation from God. God’s plans before creation would be best analogized by the idea of a blueprint. Jesus Christ’s Gospel is for our glory. This refers to all the spiritual blessings that God promised (Ephesians 1:3).
V8 Which none of the leaders of this age recognized because if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory.
Leaders of this age could be identified with satan and his kingdom, but more likely political and religious leaders. The cross meant the utter defeat and doom for satan and his horde.
(Holman Commentary) “Their antagonism toward Christ made it clear that they had no wisdom at all. By pointing out this folly, the apostle showed that the pretense of human wisdom has no place in the Christian community.
“Paul dealt the Corinthians’ pride a severe blow by telling them that their pursuit of human wisdom placed them in the same company as the people who crucified the Lord they claimed to worship. Further, by mentioning that Christ is the Lord of glory, who possesses glory himself and is able to give it to those who believe in him, Paul made sure the Corinthians realized that the glory they sought could never come through association with particular church leaders. The Corinthians needed to repent of their human wisdom and to return to the pure gospel. They could only receive glory through Christ.”
We learn:
- Two types of wisdom.
- The ignorance of human leaders.
Questions:
- Which wisdom do you seek?
- Do you accept God’s wisdom?