BHT with Abridged Translator’s Notes1 Corinthians 14 =
14
“Be Eager to Excel in This: Building Up the Assembly”
1 Continually pursue love, and eagerly desire the gifts of the Spirit, especially the gift of prophecy. 2 If someone is speaking in a tongue,+ you see, it is not people+ to whom he is speaking, but God, since no one can understand him; it is mysteries, by the power+ of the Spirit,+ that he is speaking. 3 If someone prophesies, however, it is to people that he is speaking, words that build them up and exhort them and give them encouragement. 4 If a person speaks in a tongue, it is himself whom he is building up; if a person prophesies, however, it is the assembly that he is building up. 5 Although I desire all of you to speak in tongues, I would especially like you to prophesy.+ Someone who prophesies is of indeed greater usefulness+ than the person who speaks in tongues, unless the latter+ interprets, so that the whole+ assembly may be built up.+
6 As it is, brothers and sisters, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I be to you of any help at all, unless, to you, I speak in the form of a revelation, or of knowledge, or of a prophecy, or of teaching? 7 Even in the case of lifeless instruments making sounds, like the flute or the harp—if there is in their tones no clear distinction, how will anyone know what tune is being played on the flute or the harp?+ 8 Indeed, if a trumpet blasts forth a signal that is unrecognizable, who is going to get ready for battle? 9 In the same way, you, too, with the tongue—if it isn’t an intelligible message that you are speaking, how will anyone understand what is being spoken? You might as well+ be talking into the air! 10 There are in the world I don’t know how many different kinds of languages, and all of them have sounds.+ 11 If I don’t understand a person’s language,+ therefore, I will be to the person speaking a foreigner, and the person speaking will himself be a foreigner in my own eyes. 12 In the same way, you, too, since you are so eager for the gifts of the Spirit, be eager to excel in this: Building up the assembly. 13 That is why someone who is speaking in a tongue is to pray for the ability to interpret. 14 If I am praying in a tongue, it is my spirit that is praying; my mind, however, is unfruitful. 15 What should I do, then? I will pray with my spirit, and I will pray with my mind, too. I will sing praises with my spirit, and I will sing praises with my mind, too. 16 Otherwise, if ˢyou are giving praise and thanks to God with your spirit, how can someone who is present and showing interest in the faith+ say “Amen” to your prayer of thanksgiving, since he has no idea at all what ˢyou’re saying? 17 Indeed, although ˢyou, for your part, are giving thanks in a good way, the other person isn’t being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 Nevertheless, in the assembly I would rather speak a mere five words with my mind, so that I can provide instruction, too, for others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. 20 Don’t don’t be like children, brothers and sisters, in your way of thinking. No, it is in regard to wickedness that you are to be like children. In your way of thinking, however, become mature. 21 In the Scriptures+ it is written:
“It is through people of strange tongues
and by the speech+ of foreigners
that I will speak to this people,
and yet not even then will they listen to me,”+
says the Lord.
22 So then, tongues are a sign of warning, not for believers, but for unbelievers. Prophecy, however, is not for unbelievers, but for believers. 23 If the entire assembly gathers together, therefore, and everyone is speaking in tongues, and people interested in the faith+ or unbelievers come in, they will say that you’ve lost your minds, won’t they? 24 If all are prophesying, though, and an unbeliever or a person interested in the faith+ comes in, he will be convicted of his sin by what he hears everyone saying+ and will be called to account by all. 25 The secrets of his heart will come out into the open, and as a result, throwing himself facedown to the ground, he will worship God, exclaiming, “ Truly God is among you!”
26 In light of these things, brothers and sisters, what should you do? Whenever you gather, one person has a psalm,+ another has a teaching, another has a revelation, another has a message+ through a tongue, another has an interpretation. All things are to be done with this end in view: Building up. 27 If it is a tongue in which someone desires to speak, two, or at the most three, should do so, one at a time, and somebody must interpret. 28 If there is no one present who can interpret,+ however, the person+ is to remain quiet in the assembly. It is to himself and to God that he is to speak. 29 As for prophets, only two or three are to speak, and the others are to carefully evaluate what is being said. 30 If something is revealed to another, however, who is sitting there, the first speaker should stop. 31 You can all prophesy, you see, one by one, so that everyone can learn, and everyone be exhorted; 32 people with the gift of prophecy over their wills still have control.+ 33 God is a God not of disorder, you see, but of peace.
As in all the assemblies of the Lord’s holy people,+34 women+ must in the assemblies remain quiet. They are not permitted to speak, but must submit themselves, just as Torah, too, itself says.+ 35 Now if there is something about which they have questions,+ their own husbands are the ones they should ask, at home. It is shameful, you see, for a woman+ to speak in an assembly. 36 Or was it with you that the word of God originated? Or are you the only ones to whom it has come? 37 If someone considers himself to be a prophet, or a person governed by the Spirit, he must acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command, from the Lord himself. 38 If someone disregards this, however, he will be disregarded.
39 So then, brothers and sisters, eagerly desire the gift of prophecy,+ and don’t forbid speaking in tongues. 40 All things must be done, however, in a proper and orderly way.
+1:1Or called. Following L-N in translation here (see L-N, 33.314).+1:2Lit summoned to be holy, or called/summoned to be saints. Cf 1 Th 4:7, 5:23; 2 Th 2:13.+1:3Unless otherwise marked (through superscript—ˢyou), all second person pronouns are in the second person plural.+1:5Or speech.+1:6Cf 1 Th 1:5.+1:6Cf 1 Co 2:1-5; Th 1:5. Translating ἐν ὑμῖν ( en humin) in a way similar to 1 Th 1:5 (cf CJB, ISV, NCV, NLT, and TEV at 1 Th 1:5). Paul’s point here is similar to his statements in 1 Th 1:4-5.+1:8Lit who.+1:8Cf Php 1:10; Col 1:22 Th 3:12, 5:23; Jud 24.+1:9Or trustworthy. Cf 1 Th 5:24; 2 Th 3:3.+1:9Or called, or invited.+1:9Cf Rm 5:3, 8:17, 8:27-30; Ga 2:20-21, 3:26-29; Php 3:10, 3:21; Col 3:1-4.+1:10Lit speak the same thing. ME (see BDAG, 588, sv λέγω 1.a.α.; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 32; UBSHS [1 Co], 20).+1:10For the basis of this rendering of νοῦς ( nous), see BDAG, 680, sv 2.b. An attitude of humility is what Paul means here (cf Php 2).+1:10Lit be restored to order/unity in the same mind and in the same conviction.+1:11Lit for it was made clear to me concerning you, my brothers, by those of Chloe, that there are bitter arguments/quarrels among you. ME. The mismatch in languages here is obvious.+1:12Lit each of you says. In English, this type of statement is more clearly and naturally expressed by distributing the subject and grouping it with the claim. Cf CJB, NCV, NIV, NLT.+1:12Lit I am of Paul. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 21). Variations of this are used here and in 1 Co 3:1, to aid in the translation of 3:21 (where the genitive is functioning on multiple levels at the same time, and where the things referred to are very diverse in nature).+1:13Or on your behalf, or in your place. See note at Ga 1:3.+1:13Cf Col 1:13.+1:16Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:17Lit not with wisdom of speech/word. ME (see BDAG, 599, sv λόγος 1.a.β.; notes at 1 Th 1:5).+1:18Or deliverance.+1:19Cf Mt 11:25.+1:19Is 29:14+1:20Lit where. EFE. Though intelligible to some degree, the intended effect and meaning of the rhetorical question here doesn’t transfer as naturally into English simply with “where” (cf UBSHS [1 Co], 31). The CJB, LB, NCV, and TEV are best here.+1:20Lit where. EFE. See previous note.+1:20Lit where. EFE. See previous two notes.+1:20Lit Did not God make foolish the wisdom of the world? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 31). Cf TEV.+1:21Lit Since in the wisdom of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 52; UBSHS [1 Co], 32). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:21Cf Mt 11:25-28; Jn 1:18.+1:21IT. Cf TEV; UBSHS [1 Co], 32; v 1:18 above.+1:21Or in him. The object of faith is implied contextually. Cf CJB.+1:22Lit Greeks.+1:23Cf Dt 32:21; Ps 118:22; Is 28:16; Ac 22:22; Rm 9:33, 10:19, 11:9; 1 Pe 2:6-8.+1:23Because of the importance of the “stumbling block” motif in NT teaching, especially with regard to the Jewish people (see, eg, Ps 118:22; Is 28:16; Rm 9:33, 11:9; 1 Pe 2:6-8), I thought it important to maintain the literal imagery here. I have clarified the meaning (see L-N, 25.181), though, with an appositional phrase.+1:23See previous note.+1:23Cf Ac 17:16-21.+1:24Or called, or invited.+1:24Lit Greeks.+1:26Lit look at your calling. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 1:26; UBSHS [1 Co], 37). Cf NET, TEV.+1:27Lit the foolish things of the world. ME Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:27Or chose, or has chosen.+1:27Cf Dt 7:7-9; 1 Sm 16:1-12; 2 Sm 7:8; Am 7:14; Ac 4:13.+1:27Lit the weak things of the world. ME. Cf CJB, TEV.+1:28Lit the insignificant things of the world and the despised things. ME. Cf NCV, TEV.+1:28Lit the things not being. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 65; UBSHS [1 Co], 39). Cf NLT, NCV, TEV.+1:28Lit the things being. ME. Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV. Here, the opposite of “the things not being” is meant (see note earlier in this verse).+1:29Lit all flesh, or any flesh, or any kind of flesh. Translated according to “Flesh” M, N (see FBT Chart). Cf translation and note at Ac 2:17.+1:29Lit so that no flesh may boast. ME (see notes at 2 Co 1:14).+1:30Lit out of him, or from him, or because of him, or by him. ME. Cf NASB, NCV, NLT, REB, TEV, TNT. Cf Dt 7:7-9, 9:4-6; Jr 9:23-24; Rm 9:14-18; 1 Jn 4:19; v 31.+1:30Cf CJB, ISV, NLT, TEV.+1:30This may well be an allusion to the cornerstone motif (cf Ps 118:22; Mt 21:42-43; Mk 12:10-11; Ac 4:11). Cf παρὰ κυρίου ( para kuriou) in Mt 21:42 with ἐξ αὐτοῦ ( ex autou) and ἀπὸ θεοῦ ( apo theou) in this verse, and note how this element receives focal prominence here and in Mt 21:42. Cf also the TEV’s translation of γίνομαι at Mt 21:28.+1:30Lit sanctification. ME/IT (see Timothy Miller, “Paul’s Priestly Mission and Salvation from the Coming Wrath: A Missiological Probe of Romans 15:16 and the Question of Divine Anger through the Worldview of Leviticus” [PhD diss., Columbia International University, 2024]).+1:31Lit boasts. ME (see notes at 2 Co 1:14).+1:31Lit in the Lord. ME(OTB) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 42; cf, eg, Ps 77:11, 78:4, 106:2). Cf TEV. Ga 6:14 confirms that the TEV has rightly identified the intending meaning here. Cf Rm 1:16-17.+1:31Jr 9:24+2:4Lit in persuasion of wisdom. ME. Cf NCV, NIV, NLT.+2:4Lit proof/demonstration [consisting] of the Spirit and power. ME. Following the lead of BDAG in translation here (see BDAG, 109, sv ἀπόδειξις), with the information in the verbal noun activated in verb form for more natural expression in English. Cf Ac 10:44-48, 11:15-17; Ga 4:6-7; 1 Th 1:5.+2:6Cf Ps 110:5-6; Is 24:21-23; Dn 10; Zc 14; 1 Co 6:1-3; Eph 3:10-11; 1 Jn 5:19; Re 19:11-21:15.+2:7Cf Rm 16:25; Eph 3:3-9; Col 1:25-28.+2:7The antecedent here is “wisdom.” When used with προορίζω ( proorizō), a wise plan or decision is meant (see L-N, 30.84; UBSHS [1 Co], 54; Ac 4:28; Eph 3:9). Cf NCV, NLT.+2:7Lit unto/for/with a view to our glory. ME (see BDAG, 257, sv δόξα 1.c.; translation and notes at Jn 7:39, Rm 8:30). Cf Is 52:12-53:12; 1 Pt 1:20.+2:8Cf Is 40:13-14; Rm 11:34.+2:8Cf Is 53:1; Jn 1:14, 12:38; Php 2:6-11; 1 Ti 3:16.+2:9Lit not ascend in/on the heart of man. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, 58, sv ἀναβαίνω 2; L-N, 30.17; UBSHS [1 Co], 56). Cf HCSB.+2:9Is 64:4+2:10Cf Eph 3:4-6; Col 1:26-27.+2:10Lit the deep things of God. ME (see L-N, 28.76; UBSHS [Re], 61). Cf Dn 2:20-23; 1 Pt 1:11.+2:11Lit Who among men knows the things of the man except the spirit of the man that is in him? ME. The gap between languages here is obvious. Cf NLT.+2:11Lit the things. What the “things” are is made clear from the context. Cf ESV, HCSB, NASB, RSV.+2:13Cf Is 54:13. Cf Jr 31:33-34; Jn 6:45, 16:13; Rm 2:15; 1 Th 4:9; Heb 8:10-11; 1 Jn 2:27.+2:13Or comparing things of the Spirit with things of the Spirit. Though I am not dogmatic here, Paul’s use of πνευματικοῖς ( pneumatikois) in 1 Co 3:1 causes me to favor the interpretation reflected in the translation. Also, looking to the context for the intended meaning of πνευματικὰ ( pneumatika) here: “My message and my preaching” (v 4); “God has revealed them to us by the Spirit” (v 10); “so that we may understand” (v 12); “taught by the Spirit” (v 13); “unable to understand” (v 14); “examined and understood” (v 14); “examine and understand all things” (v 15).+2:14Lit the natural man. ME (see ANLEX, 414, sv ψυχικός 2; UBSHS [1 Co], 61). In addition to the immediate context, Jude 19 makes it clear what is meant by ψυχικός ( psuchikos) here. Cf NIV, NCV, TEV.+2:14Cf Jn 14:15-17.+2:14Lit they.+2:15Cf 1 Co 4:8-13; Heb 11.+2:16A loose quotation of Is 40:13 (LXX).+2:16IT/ME(OTB) (see BDAG, 680, sv νοῦς 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 63; MT of Is 40:13, where rûach [“spirit/breath/mind”] is used). Many English readers might not realize the close relationship between spirit and mind presupposed by Paul’s statement here. Therefore, the IT has been made explicit in translation, so that the connection between this statement and information activated in the broader context is not lost in translation.+3:1Lit as to fleshly people. ME (see L-N, 41.42; UBSHS [1 Co], 67). Cf CJB, ISV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+3:3Lit for still you are fleshly. ME (see note at v 1).+3:3Lit according to man. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 3:3). Cf CJB, LET, NCV, NET, NLT, TEV.+3:4Lit Are you not men? ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 3:3; UBSHS [1 Co], 70).+3:5Lit to each as the Lord gave. ME. Cf NCV, NLT.+3:7Cf NAB.+3:8Or are united. Lit are one. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 119; UBSHS [1 Co], 73). Cf HCSB, ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT, NRSV.+3:8Or wages.+3:9Lit we. The “we” here is an exclusive we, referring to Paul and Apollos (see UBSHS [1 Co], 74). Cf NLT. Cf also 1 Co 4:6.+3:9Lit For we are fellow-workers for God, or For we are God’s fellow-workers. ME. Cf REB, NCV, NRSV, TEV.+3:10Lit according to the grace/gracious gift of God that was given to me. ME (see ANLEX, 407, sv χάρις 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 75).+3:12ME(H)/IT (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 128; UBSHS [1 Co], 77). Cf v 14.+3:12ME (H)/IT (see previous note).+3:13Or because each person’s work. Lit it.+3:13Cf 2 Pt 3.+3:15Or he will be punished. Cf REB.+3:15Lit but so as through fire. ME (see BDAG, 898, sv πῦρ a.; UBSHS [1 Co], 79). Cf CJB, HCSB ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+3:16Or in you, or among you.+3:18Lit in this age. ME (see L-N, 41.38). Cf NIV, NLT.+3:19Jb 5:13+3:20Ps 94:11. Cf the translation of μάταιος [ mataios] here with that at 1 Co 15:17. I have also used “worthless,” though, to preserve potential links in thought with Rm 1:21.+3:21Lit let no one boast in men. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 84; notes at Mt 19:26; 1 Co 1:12, 3:4). Cf HCSB, NET, NCV.+3:21The genitive is functioning at maximum capacity here, with different shades of meaning simultaneously at work because of the diverse nature of the things referred to in the list that follows. With Paul, Apollos, and Cephas, the meaning is that these men are given by God to serve the Corinthians. With “world,” the inheritance that believers will receive at the Second Coming is in view (cf Rm 4:13; Ga 4). “Life” could also conceivably be included with the inheritance, but because it is grouped with death (which certainly isn’t part of the inheritance), “life or death” most likely means something along the lines of passages like 2 Co 2:15, 4:1-12, and 2 Co 11:23, Eph 3:1, Php 1:20-25, Col 1:24, and 1 Th 1:5. “Things present” means the things experienced in this age for our good (cf Rm 8:28-29), and “things to come” refers again to the future inheritance (cf, eg, Rm 8:17). Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 143-6.+3:22Cf Jn 13:12-17; Rm 4:13, 8:17, 8:28-9; 2 Co 2:15, 4:1-12; Ga 4; Eph 3:1; Php 1:20-25, 3:10-11; Col 1:24; 1 Th 1:5.+3:23Lit You are of the Messiah. Maintaining consistency in translation with 1 Co 1:12 (see translation and note there).+3:23Lit the Messiah is of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 146). Cf Rm 8:17; 1 Co 11:3, 15:28.+4:1Cf Rm 16:25-26; 1 Co 2:1, 7; Eph 3:5; Col 1:26; 1 Th 2:4.+4:2Cf HCSB.+4:4Lit I am not conscious of anything against myself. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 90). Cf ISV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+4:4Cf translation and notes at 1 Co 2:15.+4:4Lit examines me, or discerns me.+4:5Lit the purposes/intentions of the heart. ME(H/OTB) (see note at Mk 3:5).+4:6Lit in us, or by us. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 161; UBSHS [1 Co], 93). Cf NCV, TEV, REB.+4:6Or learn.+4:6Lit the not above what is written. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 162; L-N, 88.95; UBSHS [1 Co], 93).+4:6Lit so that none of you are inflated with pride for/in favor of the one against the other. ME. The mismatch in languages is significant here. The meaning is clear from the context. Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 164; UBSHS (1 Co), 94.+4:7Lit Who differentiates you? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 95). Cf Re 3:17-19.+4:8Cf Dn 7:21-22; 1 Co 4:5, 6:2-3; 1 Th 4:17; Heb 12:39-40; Re 2:25-28.+4:9Lit God has appointed/publicly displayed us apostles last/at the end like men condemned to death. ME(H)/IT (see BDAG, 108, sv ἀποδείκνυμι 1; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 170-171; FSB, 1 Co 4:9, sv ἀποδείκνυμι; UBSHS [1 Co], 97).+4:17Or faithful, or dependable, or loyal.+4:18Lit as though my not coming to you. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 105). Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+4:19Lit I will know not the word of those inflated with pride, but the power. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 106). Cf ISV, NLT, TEV.+4:20Cf CSB, NIV, REB. For another possibility, see VPR (see VCC, 1 Co 4:19). The verb is not explicit, and therefore must be inferred from the context. Cf Dn 2:34, 44; Mt 16:27, 25:31; Mk 9:2, 13:26; Lk 17:21-25, 21:28-30; 2 Th 1:5-8; 2 Ti 4:1-8.+5:1Lit Everywhere it is being reported, or it is actually being reported. ME (see BDAG, 704, sv ὅλως; UBSHS [1 Co], 109).+5:1Lit and such immorality which is not even among the Gentiles. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 109). Cf NLT, TEV.+5:1Lit so that someone has the wife of the father. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 111). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+5:3Lit though absent in the body. ME. Cf NCV, NLT.+5:3Cf Mt 16:19, 18:15-20.+5:4Lit and my own spirit. ME. Cf NET, NIV.+5:5Lit the (that is, the man’s).+5:5Cf Pr 20:30.+5:6Lit your boasting.+5:6καλός ( kalos) can mean “good” in the sense of “beautiful” (see, eg, L-N, 79.9) or “advantageous” (see, eg, L-N, 65.43). Here it has been translated as the opposite of these (ie, “not beautiful,” and “not advantageous” [in this context, “not advantageous” in the sense of “dangerous” fits the context well]).+5:6Lit leavens. ME(H/OTB) (see note at Ga 5:9).+5:7Cf Ex 12:15; Eph 4:17-32; Col 3:5-10.+5:7Cf Ex 12:1-28; Jn 19:36.+5:8Cf Ex 12:1-28; Lv 23:4-8; Nu 9:1-5.+5:9Lit I wrote to you in the letter. ME(H) (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 214; UBSHS [1 Co], 117). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+5:10Lit not by any means/entirely the sexually immoral people of this world. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 118). Cf FrCL.+5:10Lit since then you would be obligated to go out of the world. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, 348, sv ἐξέρχομαι 2).+5:11Or Now I am writing to you. Cf NLT, TEV.+5:12Cf Mt 16:17-20, 18:10-20.+5:13Cf Rm 2:1-16, 12:19-20.+5:13Dt 17:7+6:1Lit the unrighteous, or the unjustified. ME (see ANLEX, 35, sv ἄδικος 5; UBSHS [1 Co], 124).+6:1Lit the holy ones.+6:2Lit the holy ones.+6:2Cf ISV.+6:2Cf Is 1:26-27; Dn 7:21-27.+6:3Cf NCV, NIV, NLT, TEV; UBSHS (1 Co), 125. Paul’s argument here is an example of a lesser-to-greater argument (cf, eg, Mt 6:26, 12:12), though here the greater is stated first. Paul obviously isn’t saying that the matters leaders must deal with in this age (like immorality in the church; see ch 5) are unimportant, but that they are less weighty in comparison to the responsibilities that will be entrusted to the saints in the age to come.+6:4Lit you have. Cf ISV at v 2.+6:4Or Those who are despised in the assembly, are you going to seat these people? Lit Those who are despised/least esteemed/disdained in the assembly, these people seat. ME (see BDAG, 491, sv καθίζω 2; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 226; L-N, 37.104; UBSHS [1 Co], 125-7).+6:5Lit among you. ME. Cf TEV.+6:9The two Greek terms used here refer to the passive and active partners in a male homosexual relationship (see L-N, 88.281, 88.280). Cf NET.+6:10Cf Re 21:6-8.+6:11Lit you were sanctified. ME/IT (see Timothy Miller, “Paul’s Priestly Mission and Salvation from the Coming Wrath: A Missiological Probe of Romans 15:16 and the Question of Divine Anger through the Worldview of Leviticus” [PhD diss., Columbia International University, 2024]).+6:11IT. The extension of mercy is implied here. See James B. Prothro, A Pauline Theology of Justification: Forgiveness, Friendship, and Life in Christ. (Eugene, Oregon: Cascade Books, 2023). Cf Rom 4:1-8.+6:12Here Paul is obviously talking about all things that are good in themselves (such as food and sex, for example).+6:12Lit all things for me are permitted. ME. Looking to 1 Co 10:23-25, Ga 2:11-13, and 1Ti 6:18 for clarity as to the intended meaning of the saying here. Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 236; REB, TEV.+6:12Cf 1 Ti 6:17-19.+6:13Lit both this [the stomach] and these [foods]. The antecedents have been made explicit in translation for the sake of clarity.+6:13Cf 1 Co 3:16-17; 2 Co 11:2; Eph 5:25-33; Col 3:4; 2 Th 1:10.+6:15Lit members, or parts. Cf REB.+6:15Lit the members of the Messiah.+6:15Lit make them members of. Cf NCV.+6:16Gn 2:24+6:18Lit is outside the body, or is independent of the body. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 138; Spence, PC [1 Co], 194). The meaning of this phrase is difficult to determine, but the context (note the contrast with “sins against his own body,” or “sins in his own body,” or “sins with reference to his own body”) seems to favor an interpretation somewhere between those of Spence, NLT, and GeCL. Following their lead in the translation here. Cf also 2 Co 7:2.+6:18Or in, or with reference to.+6:19Cf Rm 14:7–8; 1Co 3:16; 2 Co 6:16.+6:19Or among.+6:20Lit in, or by. Cf CJB, TEV. I like the clarity of these translations, but wanted to keep “in your body” in clause-final. Hence the translation here.+7:2Lit because of the immoralities. The plural here is interpreted in terms of pervasiveness of acts (see previous note). This is reflected in the translation. Cf CJB, HCSB, ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT.+7:3Lit To the wife let the husband repay the debt/duty. ME(I/F) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 144).+7:5Lit be again in the same place. ME(I/F) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 146). Cf NET, TEV.+7:7Cf Mt 19:10-12.+7:8Lit I say.+7:8Lit if they remain even as I. Cf CJB, ESV, NIV, NLT, NRSV, RSV, TEV.+7:10Cf Mk 10:5-12.+7:14Or is consecrated.+7:14Lit is set apart in his wife. ME (see BDAG, 329, sv ἐν 9.a.; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 268; UBSHS [1 Co], 153).+7:14Lit is set apart in the brother. ME (see previous note).+7:15Or called.+7:16Cf TEV.+7:16The spouse here is meant to be understood as playing an instrumental role in salvation (see BDAG, 982, sv σῴζω 2.a.β.).+7:16Cf 1 Pt 3:1-6.+7:16Cf TEV.+7:17Or called.+7:17Cf TEV; UBSHS (1 Co), 158.+7:18Lit let him not pull over the foreskin. ME(H) (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:18).+7:19IT. Cf ISV, NCV, NET, NIV, NLT, TEV.+7:20Lit in the calling in which he was called/summoned. ME (see ANLEX, 232, sv κλῆσις 2; BDAG, 549, sv κλῆσις 2; DBL Greek, #3104.3; NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:20; L-N, 87.2). The context clearly confirms this meaning here (“slave,” “free,” etc). Cf HCSB, NET, NIV.+7:21Or although if indeed you are able to gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity, or although if indeed you are able to gain your freedom, make the most of it. Cf 1 Ti 6:2.+7:22Lit the one who was called by the Lord as a slave. ME. Cf TEV.+7:22Lit the one was called as a freedman. ME. Cf NLT.+7:23See note at 1 Co 6:20.+7:23Cf 1 Pt 1:18-19; Re 5:9.+7:23Or don’t become, or don’t show yourselves to be. My interpretation of γίνομαι ( ginomai) here (see DBL Greek, #1181.7; L-N, 41.1) is influenced by Eph 6:5-8 and Col 3:22-23. Paul’s point here is that irrespective of someone’s station or status, people are to conduct themselves according to a higher standard, which is applicable in all circumstances and situations, and conformity to which will be rewarded in the age to come.+7:23IT. See note at Mt 19:26.+7:23Cf Eph 6:5-8; Col 3:22-23.+7:24Lit Each one in what he was called/summoned. ME (see note at v 20).+7:24Or before God, or with God, or in fellowship with God, or as one accountable to God. Cf Eph 6:7-8; NIV here; translation and notes and the ISV at 2 Co 2:17.+7:25Lit the virgins. Cf ESV. For a synopsis of the primary interpretations of παρθένων ( parthenōn) here, see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:25; ESS (1 Co 1-9), 285; and UBSHS (1 Co), 167.+7:26Or in view of the present distress. Cf v 29. Cf also NRSV.+7:26Or good, or advantageous, or fitting.+7:27Lit Have you been bound/tied...?. The obligation/tie signaled by δέω ( deō) can apply either to married or engaged couples (see Fee in ESS [1 Co 1-9], 290). Given Paul’s teaching on divorce in vv 10-16, he is most likely referring to betrothal/engagement (which also accords with Jewish bridal customs; cf Mt 1:19). Cf ESV, NLT, NRSV, RSV at 1 Co 7:36; and ESV at 1 Co 7:25 and 7:28.+7:27Cf Mt 1:19.+7:27Lit Don’t seek a loosing/release.+7:27Lit Have you been loosed...? See note in the first sentence of this verse.+7:28Lit and if the virgin.... Cf ESV.+7:29Lit This I am saying, brothers. ME. Cf ISV, NCV, NIV, TEV.+7:29Lit The appointed time is drawn to a close. ME (see BDAG, 498, sv καιρός 3.b.; UBSHS [1 Co], 170).+7:29Lit those who have wives as not having. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 170).+7:31Lit so that those who have wives should be like those who don’t have [wives], and those who weep like those who don’t weep, and those who rejoice like those who don’t rejoice, and those who buy like those who don’t possess, and those who avail themselves of the world not fully avail themselves [of it]. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 294-7; UBSHS [1 Co], 170-1).+7:34Cf REB, TEV.+7:34Lit the unmarried woman and the virgin. Cf ESV.+7:34Or to be holy, or to be consecrated.+7:35Lit This I speak for your own profit. ME. Cf TEV.+7:35Lit but for the sake of/with a view to what is seemly and constantly in service to the Lord without distraction. ME (see ANLEX, 181, sv εὐσχήμων 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 174). Cf most English translations.+7:36Lit toward his virgin. Cf ESV.+7:37Lit He who stands in his heart firm. ME(I/F) (see L-N, 31.7).+7:37Or will.+7:37Lit to go on keeping his virgin. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 178). Cf ESV, NCV, NRSV, RSV, TEV.+7:38This section can also be translated in a manner similar to how it is translated in the NIV footnote, which reads: “If anyone thinks he is not treating his daughter properly, and if she is getting along in years, and he feels she ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. He should let her get married. But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will, and who has made up his mind to keep the virgin unmarried—this man also does the right thing. So then, he who gives his virgin in marriage does right, but he who does not give her in marriage does even better.”+7:39Lit falls asleep. ME(I/F) (see L-N, 23.104).+7:40Lit according to my own conviction/opinion/judgment. ME.+7:40Lit and I believe that I too have the Spirit of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 312; UBSHS [1 Co], 179).+8:2Lit has not known as it is necessary to know. Cf NRSV.+8:3ME (OTB) (see notes at Ga 4:9). Paul is making plays on words with “knowledge/knowing” here. At the same time, I felt it important here to maintain consistency in translation with Ga 4:9. Hence, I’ve included an appositional phrase in translation.+8:3Lit by him. Cf Ga 4:9; 1 Jn 2:3-6, 4:2-16.+8:4Lit we know that an idol is nothing in the world. ME (OTB) (see Dt 32:21 [note the parallelism; cf Ga 4:8]; Ps 31:6, Ps 96:5, 97:7, 115:4, 135:15; Is 2:8, 44:9, 48:5, 57:13; Jr 2:6, 10:5-14; Hab 2:18; 2 Ki 7:15; Jr 10:8, 14:22; Jnh 2:8; Ac 14:15). “Care should be taken not to translate this part of verse 4 in such a way as to conflict with verse 5, where Paul admits that other spiritual powers exist” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 185).+8:4Lit and that no one is God except one. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185).+8:5Lit just as there are many gods and many lords. ME (OTB/H) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185-6; notes at Ga 4:8-9.) Cf Dt 32:8 (see esp DSS, LXX; NET Bible Notes at Dt 32:8); Jb 1-2; Ps 82; Dn 10; Rm 8:38; Eph 1:21, 2:1-2, 3:10, 6:12; Col 1:16; 1 Pt 3:22; Jud 6; Re 7:1-3, 16:5.+8:6Lit to us. The dative here is most likely an ethical dative (“yet from our standpoint” [as Christians]), with the truth of the perspective assumed within the framework of the Biblical worldview.+8:6Lit Even though there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on the earth, just as there are many gods and many lords, but to us. ME (OTB/H) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185-6; notes at Ga 4:8-9). The mismatch in languages here is significant.+8:6Lit from whom is the whole creation/all things. The preposition here indicates source. Cf Re 4:11.+8:7Lit this knowledge is not in all. The context indicates that Paul is speaking here of believers, and therefore knowledge being “in” someone means that it is rooted in them to the point that they can make decisions without defiling their conscience in the process; it refers to a “maturity of knowledge” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 186).+8:7Lit Some because of the custom until now of the idol, they eat as though food sacrificed on an idol. ME (see BDAG, 280, sv εἰδωλόθυτος; UBSHS [1 Co], 186). Cf most English translations. Again, there is significant mismatch in languages here.+8:8Cf Rm 14:10-12; Co 4:5; 1 Jn 3:21, 4:17.+8:9Lit a stumbling block to the weak. ME (see L-N, 88.307).+8:10Lit If someone sees you, the one who has knowledge, reclining [for a meal] in an idol’s temple, will not his conscience, being weak, be built up so as to eat the idol sacrifices? ME. The mismatch in languages here is obvious. Cf CJB, ISV, NET, NIV, NLT, TEV. See also note at 8:7 above.+8:12Cf Mt 18:1-6.+9:2Lit the seal of my apostleship. ME (see ESS [1 Co], 333; UBSHS [1 Co], 194). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+9:4Lit the right to eat and drink. ME (see BDAG, 396, sv ἐσθίω 1.e.α; NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 9:4). Cf NET.+9:8Lit Is it according to man...? ME(I/F). Cf ESV, ISV, NCV, NRSV, RSV.+9:8Lit says these things.+9:9Dt 25:4+9:10Lit who plows. ME(H) (see L-N, 43.4).+9:10Lit who threshes. ME(H) (see ANLEX, 44, sv ἀλοάω; L-N, 43.19).+9:10Cf 1 Ti 5:18.+9:11Drawing from BDAG in translation here (see BDAG, 624, sv μέγας 5).+9:11Lit your fleshly things. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, σαρκικός, 914 1.a; cf v 4 [lit “we have a right to food and drink, don’t we?”]). Cf NLT. ὑμῶν τὰ σαρκικὰ ( humōn ta sarkika) is in P2 (see BART Display), and has therefore been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+9:12Lit so that we may not give any hindrance to the gospel of the Messiah. ME. Cf NET, NLT.+9:13Cf Dt 18:3-4; Nu 18:20-24.+9:13Cf Nu 18:5, 20-24; Dt 18:3-4.+9:14Cf Mt 10:10; Lk 10:7; Ga 6:6; 1 Ti 5:18.+9:15Lit And I do not write these things so that it might be thus with reference to me. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 204). Cf CJB, ESV, RSV, TEV.+9:15Lit the boast of me. ME. In this context, where “boasting” is used in a positive sense, and where “reward” based on voluntary sacrifice is in view (cf v 17), “honor” (see LALS, sv καύχημα; LEH LXX Lex, sv καύχημα; notes at 1 Th 2:19-20), based on praiseworthy conduct (see translation and notes at 2 Co 1:12-14, 5:12, 7:14, 8:2, 11:10), is the basic meaning of καύχημα ( kauchēma). Cf the LXX at Dt 26:19; Pr 16:31, 17:6, 19:8; Jr 13:11; Zc 12:7. Cf also Sir 1:11, 10:22, 25:6, 44:7, 45:8-12, 50:11.+9:15Cf 1 Th 2:19-20.+9:16Lit it is not to me a boast. ME (see previous note; translation and notes at 2 Co 1:14; v 18 below [ie, “boasting” approximates “reward”]). Cf 1 Co 3:8, 4:5.+9:16Lit If I proclaim the gospel, there is not for me a boast, for obligation is laid upon me. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 353; UBSHS [1 Co], 205). The mismatch is languages is significant here. Cf Lk 17:7-10.+9:17Lit doing this. ME. Cf TEV.+9:17Cf TEV.+9:18Lit so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 206).+9:19Lit Even though I am free. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 207; cf notes at Ga 4:22). Cf NJB, TNT.+9:19Cf CJB, NCV, NIV, TEV.+9:20Or become. The aorist may be functioning gnomically here. Cf TEV.+9:20Or to, or among.+9:20Cf Ac 16:3, 21:23-26.+9:21Lit not being without God’s law.+9:21Cf Ga 6:2.+9:23Or for the sake of the gospel.+9:23Cf NAB.+9:23Lit so that I may become a sharer of it. ME(OTB)/IT (see BDAG, 952, συγκοινωνός; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 363; notes at Mk 1:15). Cf Rm 5:1-5, 8:20-25; 1 Co 1:7; 2 Co 1:5-7; Php 3:10-14 (note how Paul in Php 3 moves from the hope of the resurrection [cf “imperishable crown” in v 25 here] to the race analogy; very similar to what we see here); 1 Th 2:19-20, 4:13-18; 1 Ti 4:10; Heb 11:39-40.+9:25Cf Ps 21:3-4, 103:4; Th 2:19; 2 Ti 4:8; Heb 2:9; Jm 1:12; 1 Pt 5:4; Re 2:10, 3:11.+9:26Lit as not without aim. ME ( UBSHS [1 Co], 212). Cf CJB, TEV. This may also be a litotes (emphatic affirmation, accomplished by denying the opposite) (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 367).+9:26Lit not beating the air. ME ( UBSHS [1 Co], 212). Cf TEV. This may also be a litotes (emphatic affirmation, accomplished by denying the opposite; see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 367).+9:27Cf Rm 6:11-14, 8:13; Ga 5:16; Heb 12:4.+10:1Or forefathers. Lit fathers.+10:1Cf NLT.+10:1Lit that our fathers were all under the cloud. ME(OTB) (see Ex 13:21, 40:34; Nu 9:18, 14:14, 33:8; Ne 9:12, 19; Ps 78:13-14, 105:39). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV, TNT; UBSHS (1 Co), 215.+10:1IT. Cf TEV.+10:2Lit into Moses. ME (see ESS [1 Co 10-16], UBSHS [1 Co], 216; Rm 6:3). Cf NCV, ISV, NLT, TEV at Rm 6:3; translation and notes at Rm 6:3.+10:3Cf Ex 16.+10:4Cf Ex 17; Nu 20.+10:4Cf Ex 14:19, 23:20-23; Nu 20; Dt 32:30-31; Is 63:10-11; Ac 7:51.+10:5Lit the majority of them. Here Paul is referring to the generation that experienced the wonders described in vv 1-4 (cf Nu 14:22-23; Ps 95:9-10).+10:5Lit Yet God did not take pleasure. ME(OTB)/IT (see Nu 14:1-38). Paul clearly has Nu 14 in mind here (cf v 5 with Nu 14:16 in the LXX). That Paul is thinking in terms of “inheriting the land” is confirmed by 1 Co 6:9-10 and Eph 5:5 (cf vv 6-10 below, where idolatry and immorality are mentioned specifically).+10:5Cf Nu 14:6, 24-31; Ps 95:10-11; Mt 7:13-14.+10:5Nu 14:16 (LXX). Cf Nu 14:29-35, 26:64–65; Ps 106:26; Heb 3:17, 10:37-38; Jud 1:5.+10:6Cf Nu 11:4, 34 (LXX).+10:7Ex 32:6. Lit the people sat down to eat and drink and got up to play. ME(H/OTB) (see BDAG, 396, sv ἐσθίω sv 1.e.β.; NET Bible Notes, Ex 32:6; UBSHS [1 Co], 219).+10:8See Nu 25.+10:9See Nu 21:4-9. Cf Ps 78:18-19.+10:10See Nu 16. Cf Ex 12:23, 16:2, 17:2; Nu 14:2-37; 2 Sm 24:16; 1Ch 21:15; Re 15:1-8.+10:11Or as types, or as examples.+10:11Lit to those people. Cf UBSHS [1 Co], 222.+10:11Or fulfillment, or climax, or end, or goal.+10:11Cf 1 Co 7:26-31.+10:12Lit thinks he is standing. ME (see ANLEX, 313, sv πίπτω 2.c.; BDAG, 483, sv ἵστημι 4; Ibid, sv πίπτω 2.b.). Cf Ps 51:10, 78:8, 37.+10:13Lit a temptation has not taken you except what is characteristic of man. ME. Cf CJB, ISV, NCV, NLT, TEV.+10:13Cf Gn 39; Dn 3; Jm 1:12-18.+10:16Cf NLT, TEV.+10:16Lit The cup of blessing we bless, is it not fellowship/sharing/participation of the blood of the Messiah? ME(OTB/H)/IT (see, eg, Lv 7:15, Lv 19:5-6; BDAG, 463, sv θυσιαστήριον, 1.a.; EDBT, sv Offerings and Sacrifices; UBSHS [1 Co], 226). I agree with the UBSHS that both “communion” with God and “sharing/participation” with one another are in view here. However, the claim that “the following verses suggest that Paul is thinking mainly about the union of Christians with one another” (see UBHS [1 Co], 226) is not accurate. While this may be the point of v 17, the overall focus of the context is the need to avoid fellowship/communion with/worship of idols/demons (cf v 14, 18-22). Paul’s point here, moreover, hinges on the assumptions of ancient sacrificial systems (IT), where eating a portion of the sacrifice offered to a deity (in Israel’s case, the one true God), in the presence of that deity, was an important part of the worship, and where “eating together” signified close and peaceful relations between the deity and the worshiper (cf 1 Co 8:7-8). Thus, failure to make any of the IT explicit leaves passage extremely vague, if not incomprehensible, for many modern readers. Hence the translation here.+10:16Lit The bread we break, is it not fellowship/sharing/participation of the blood of the Messiah? ME(OTB/H)/IT (note at “blood?” above).+10:17Cf NLT.+10:17Lit one. ME (see note at Ga 3:28).+10:18Lit Israel according to the flesh. ME. Cf most English translations.+10:18Lit those who eat the sacrifices. ME(OTB)/IT (see, eg, Lv 3:3, 7:15-18, 10:12-15; Dt 18:1-4. See also BDAG, sv θυσία 2.a.β.; EDBT, sv Offerings and Sacrifices; ESS [1 Co 10-16], 36; notes at v 16).+10:18Lit are fellowshipers/partakers/sharers in the altar. ME(H/OTB)/IT (see BDAG, 463, sv θυσιαστήριον, 1.a.; ESS [1 Co 10-16], 36; notes at v 16 above). “Altar” here is being used metonymically for God himself. Cf vv 20-21.+10:19Lit that food sacrificed to idols is anything. ME (see L-N, 92.13; UBSHS [1 Co], 229). Cf 1 Co 8:4-13.+10:19Lit is anything. ME (see notes at 1 Co 8:4). “The meaning of the verse is best defined by comparing it with 8:4–6, where it is clear that Paul is denying, not the existence of other spiritual powers, but their claims on Christians’ loyalty and worship” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 229).+10:20Lit the things they sacrifice. ME. Cf TEV.+10:20Dt 32:17 (LXX)+10:22An allusion to Dt 32:16, 21.+10:22Lit Surely we are not stronger than he, are we? ME (see ESS [1 Co], 231; UBSHS [1 Co], 231).+10:23Lit all things are permitted. ME (see notes at 1 Co 6:12). Maintaining consistency in translation with 1 Co 6:12 (see translation and notes there).+10:23Maintaining consistency in translation with 1 Co 6:12 (see translation and notes there).+10:23Cf 1 Co 8:1.+10:24Cf Php 2:4.+10:26Ps 24:1+10:28Lit this was temple-sacrificed. ME(H)/IT (see BDAG, 280, sv εἰδωλόθυτος; L-N, 53.21).+10:28διά ( dia) signals benefaction (cf, eg, L-N, 90.38; NIV). Paul’s point here is self-sacrificial love for the good/strengthening/upbuilding of those for whom eating would involve a violation of conscience. Cf 1 Co 9:19-23, v 31 below; Ga 5:6; Php 2:1-11.+10:28Lit for the sake of. ME (see 1 Co 8:9-13).+10:29Or judged by, or condemned by, or subjected to the judgment of. Cf REB.+10:29Cf Ac 11:2.+10:30Contra the UBSHS (see UBSHS [1 Co], 237; cf RSV), I (with a number of commentators; see ESS [1 Co 10-16], 49) interpret this statement as either (1) providing support for 29a (ie, why Paul means another person’s conscience); or (2) as a rhetorical outburst going back to the defense of his freedom in 1 Co 9:19-23 (as proposed by Fee; see UBSHS [1 Co], 49). This is reflected in the translation through the use of parentheses. The stronger brother voluntarily laying down his “strength” for the well-being of the weaker is the central point (cf vv 31-11:1 just below; 1 Co 8:9-13).+10:31Or glory, or praise.+10:31\ft Lit for the glory/praise/honor of God. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 237).+10:32Lit Greeks.+11:1Lit become imitators of me. ME. Cf NCV, NIV.+11:1Cf 1 Th 1:5.+11:3Or a husband. So throughout this section.+11:3Or woman. So throughout this section.+11:3Cf 1 Co 4:23.+11:4Lit having down on the head. ME (see L-N, 49.16; UBSHS [1 Co], 244).+11:5Lit it is one and the same as the woman who has been shaved. ME(OTB/H)/IT (see ESS [1 Co 10-16], 64; NBC, 1178; UBSHS [1 Co], 245; Robertson, Word Pictures, 1 Co 11:5; Vincent, Word Studies, 3:247). A shaved head was a sign of grief and disgrace (see Dt 21:12; 2 Sm 10:4; 1 Ch 19:4; Jb 1:20 Is 7:20, 15:2; Jr 7:29). Cf also Nu 5:18 (see esp NET).+11:6Lit let her also have herself shorn. ME. The TEV captures the meaning well here, in my opinion, and therefore something similar has been used in translation here.+11:7Cf NLT, TEV.+11:7Or the husband. Cf Pr 12:4.+11:7Cf Gn 1-3.+11:8Paul is obviously pointing readers back to Genesis 2, which refers to particular individuals, and which is a known story. At the same time, that story is being used to describe a general pattern for men and women (note both the absence and presence of the article throughout vv 7-12). The meaning is clear either way. Cf NLT.+11:8An allusion to Gn 2:21-22.+11:9Cf Gn 2:18-24.+11:10Cf Gn 6:1-4; 2 Pt 2:4-7; Jud 6-7. Cf also Ps 138:1 (LXX [137:1]); 1 Co 4:9.+11:11Or a wife is not independent of her husband, nor is a husband independent of his wife. Lit neither is a wife apart from/independent of/separate from her husband, nor is a husband apart from/independent of/separate from his wife, or neither is woman apart from/independent of/separate from man, nor is man apart from/independent of/separate from woman. Cf ItCL in UBSHS [1 Co], 249.+11:11Lit in the Lord, or by the Lord. Cf Gn 2:24; Mt 19:5-6; Mk 10:8; 1 Co 6:16; Eph 5:28-33. Though in Paul’s writings ἐν κυρίῳ ( en kuriō) usually means “in connection with the Lord” (with the specific meaning determined by context; see, eg, Rm 14:14, 16:8-22; 1 Co 4:17, 15:58; Eph 6:21; Col 4:7), his theological framework certainly isn’t confined to this usage (see, eg, 1 Co 1:31; 2 Co 10:17). In 1 Co 1:31, “in the Lord” means “what the Lord has done” (TEV; see notes at 1 Co 1:31). Instrumental uses of the phrase are also attested in the LXX (see, eg, 2 Kingdoms 2:1 [2 Sm 2:1 in the MT], 19:8 [2 Sm 19:7 in MT]; Ho 1:7; Zc 12:5). Verse 12 is providing strength and support for this verse (note the presence of γὰρ [ gar]), and focuses on the simple fact that though the first woman was taken from Adam, men are born through women. That statement, in turn, is followed by a statement about God being the originator of all things. In this context, then, irrespective of whether “woman and man” or “wife and husband” is meant, “in the Lord” doesn’t mean “the new order established by Christ” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 248), or “life in the Lord,” (TEV), or “in the Lord’s fellowship” (REB), or “among the Lord’s people” (NLT), or anything else along these lines. Husband and wife didn’t suddenly start becoming “not independent/not apart from/not separate from” one another (ie “one flesh”) after the first coming, nor did an interdependence of existence between men and women suddenly begin when Jesus came. Nor do either of these things suddenly begin when people enter the church! The interpretations of Barrett and Hodge, which focus more on God’s will and design (see ESS [1 Co], 73), are more in line with the context here. Men and women depend on one another for their existence according to God’s good will and design, and husband and wife are bound together as “one flesh” according to God’s good will and design. This interpretation is reflected in the translation.+11:12See notes at v 8.+11:12Lit Just as woman was out of man, so also man is through woman. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 249). Cf GeCL.+11:12Cf Re 4:11.+11:14“No abstract length of hair was in mind so much as male and female differentiation” ( BKC, 2:529). “Hair, in context, the length is distinctive from a man” ( DBL Greek, #3151). Cf Nu 6:1-21.+11:18Lit among you. ME. Cf TEV+11:19Lit For it is necessary/inevitable for there to be factions among you, so that those who are approved genuine (upon testing/examination) may become manifest/clear among you. ME (see BDAG, 256, sv δόκιμος; UBSHS [1 Co], 255). Cf v 30; Ac 5:1-11.+11:21Lit For each takes his own supper beforehand in eating. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 256).+11:22This interpretation/translation is not too strong in this context! Cf vv 30-31.+11:22Cf Mt 10:40; Ac 9:4.+11:24IT (see UBSHS [1 Co], 261). Cf Lk 22:19.+11:24Or in your place, or on your behalf. See notes at Ga 1:3; Lk 22:19.+11:29Lit not differetiating/judging between/distinguishing the body. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 266; NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 11:29). Here, the distinction signaled by διακρίνω ( diakrinō) is most likely meant to convey the sacredness/sanctity of the Lord’s body and all it means/represents. Cf NET, TEV, TNT. Bringing together elements from the NET and TNT notes in translation here.+11:29Or judgment, or condemnation.+11:29Cf TEV.+11:32Or judged.+11:34ὡς ἂν ἔλθω ( hōs an elthō) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been placed in clause-final for extra focus and stress.+12:1Cf translation and notes at 1 Th 4:13.+12:2Or Gentiles.+12:2Lit to mute idols. ME. Cf CEV+12:2Cf NEB (see UBSHS [1 Co], 273).+12:4Following the lead of the TEV and the UBSHS in translation here (see UBSHS [1 Co], 275). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+12:5Following the lead of the TEV and the UBSHS in translation here (see UBSHS [1 Co], 275). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+12:6Cf BDAG, 335, sv ἐνέργημα 1.+12:7Lit To each one the manifistation/disclosure of the Spirit is given. ME (see L-N, 28.36; UBSHS [1 Co], 276). Cf NCV, TEV. φανέρωσις ( phanerōsis) is a verbal noun cognate of φανερόω ( phaneroō) (“reveal,” “disclose,” “display”).+12:9In this context, πίστις ( pistis) doesn’t refer to faith generally, but to a special gift of faith (see BDAG, 820, sv 2.d.ζ.; UBSHS [1 Co], 277). Cf NLT.+12:10Lit workings/deeds/abilities of powers. ME (see ANLEX, 150, sv ἐνέργημα; BDAG, 335, sv ἐνέργημα 1). Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+12:10Or languages.+12:10Lit the explanation/interpretation of tongues/languages. ME. Cf NLT, TEV.+12:13Or in, or by. Cf, eg, ἐν πνεύματι ( en penumati) at Mt 3:11, Mk 1:8, Lk 3:16, Jn 1:33, and Ac 1:5.+12:13Lit Greeks.+12:17Lit where would be the hearing? ME (see L-N, 24.71). Cf NCV, NLT.+12:17Lit where would be the sense of smell? ME (see L-N, 24.71). Cf NCV, NLT.+12:19Lit If all things/the whole were one member, where would the body be? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 285). Cf NCV, TEV.+12:27Lit and members from a part. ME (see L-N, 63.15). Cf NCV, NET, NIV, NLT, TEV.+12:28Cf NLT. Cf also v 12:18 above.+12:28Lit miracles. In the following verses, the particular gifts are being used metonymically as a short-hand reference to the people who exercise those gifts. Cf CJB, ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT, RSV.+12:28Or administration, or guidance.+12:30In Greek, questions that begin with μὴ ( mē) expect a negative answer (see Black, Grammar, 170; Mounce, Grammar, 296). Cf ISV, NET. I have made this explicit in translation in order to be faithful to what is happening in the Greek text, not because I’m against speaking in tongues (I exercise this gift myself). “Charismatics” should be careful not to condemn brothers and sisters in Christ who don’t speak in tongues. At the same time, people who would consider themselves “non-charismatics” should be careful not to demonize this gift or condemn those who exercise it. Believers have full permission to ask God for this gift (see 1 Co 14:1), and though Paul places greater priority on prophecy in context to corporate situations, he still valued the gift of tongues (see 1 Co 14:18).+12:30IT. Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+12:31Cf CJB, ISV, NCV, NLT.+13:1Or languages.+13:2Technically, “knowledge” goes with “understand,” but “understand knowledge” doesn’t transfer naturally into English. Hence the translation here. Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+13:3Other manuscripts read “so that I may boast.” For discussion of the textual variants, see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 13:3; UBSHS (1 Co), 294.+13:7Or believes.+13:8Or fails. Lit falls.+13:11Lit a man. In this context, the focus is on adulthood (see UBSHS [1 Co], 300). Cf NET, NRSV.+13:12Lit by a mirror. ME(H)/IT (see UBSHS [1 Co], 300). Cf ISV, NCV, NIV, TEV.+13:12Or indirectly. Cf Ex 33:11; Nu 12:8; Dt 34:10.+13:12Cf Ex 33:11; Dt 34:10; Re 21:3-4.+13:12Cf Ps 1:6, 31:7, 144:3; Na 1:7; 2 Ti 2:19.+13:13Faith and hope by definition end at the Second Coming (see, eg, Rm 8:24-25; 2 Co 5:7; Heb 11:39). Love, however, goes on forever.+14:2Or in another language. So throughout this section.+14:2Or men, or human beings.+14:2IT. Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+14:2Or in the Spirit, or with his spirit.+14:5 Now I desire all of you to speak in tongues, but rather that you may prophesy. ME. Cf ISV. Trying to maintain some consistency in translation with v. 1, where the same construction is used.+14:5Lit is greater. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 307). Here, “greater” doesn’t mean that the invididual is of greater worth, but that a particular role is more important in terms of building up the assembly.+14:5Lit he.+14:5IT. Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+14:5Lit may receive edification.+14:7Lit how will the thing being fluted or the thing being harped be known? ME. Cf CJB, ISV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+14:9Cf NLT.+14:10Or and all of them have meaning. Lit none are without sound, or none are without meaning. ME. Following the lead of the CEV in rendering the phrase positively here. Cf also UBSHS (1 Co), 310.+14:11Lit If I don’t know the meaning of the sound. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 310).+14:16Lit the one filling the place of the uninstructed/outsider. ME(H) (see BDAG, 468, sv ἰδιώτης 2).+14:21Lit Law. Cf NCV, TEV. Here “law” is being used to refer not only to the Torah, but to the Tanakh/OT Scriptures (cf, eg, BSL, 1 Co 14:21, sv νόμος; L-N, 33.56).+14:21Lit lips. ME (see L-N, 33.74).+14:21Is 28:11,12+14:23Lit the uninstructed/outsiders. ME(H) (see BDAG, 468, sv ἰδιώτης 2). Maintaining consistency in translation with verse 16.+14:24Lit an uninstructed person/outsider. ME(H) (see BDAG, 468, sv ἰδιώτης 2). Maintaining consistency in translation with verse 16.+14:24Lit he will be convicted by all. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 318). Cf NIV, NLT, TEV.+14:26Or a hymn.+14:26IT. Cf TEV.+14:28Cf CJB, TEV.+14:28Lit he/she.+14:32Lit the spirits of prophets to prophets are subject. ME (see ESS [1 Co 10-16], 245; UBSHS [1 Co], 323). ὑποτάσσεται ( hupotasettai) is in a DFE position (see BART and LDGNT), and therefore inversion has been used to give extra focus to this element within the ME.+14:33Lit the holy ones.+14:34Or wives.+14:34Cf 1 Ti 2:11-14; 1 Pt 3:5-6.+14:35Lit if they want to learn something. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 326). Cf NLT, NIV, TEV.+14:35Or a wife.+14:39Lit eagerly desire the to prophesy. Maintaining consistency in translation with 14:1.
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