BHT with Full Translator’s Notes1 Corinthians 4 =
4
“Don’t Pass Judgment...before the Appointed Time”
1 Here is how people are to regard us: As trusted servants of the Messiah and stewards of the mysteries of God.+ 2 In this regard,+ moreover, what is sought+ in stewards is that they prove to be trustworthy.+ 3 As far as I am concerned,+ it matters very+ little whether I am cross-examined by you,+ or by anyone else in a human+ day of judgment.+ In fact, I don’t even cross-examine my own+ self. 4 Though my conscience is clear,+ you see, that doesn’t mean I am judged to be in the right. The one who examines and understands+ the truth of my life,+ rather, is the Lord.+
5 Don’t pass judgment, then,+ before the appointed time; refrain until the coming of the Lord. He will bring to light what is presently+ hidden in darkness and disclose people’s innermost thoughts and motives;+ at that time praise will be given to each person by God.
“Follow My Example”
6 Now these things, brothers and sisters, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that by our example+ you may understand+ what it means to “act sensibly in keeping with what is written,”+ so that none+ of you will be prideful about which person you prefer most.+ 7 In exactly+ whose judgment, after all, are ˢyou so exceptional?+ What do ˢyou have that you didn’t freely+ receive? And if ˢyou did in fact receive it as a gift, how+ can you sing your own praises as though you didn’t? 8 ᵖYou have already eaten all the food you want, have you? You have already become rich, have you? Without us you have begun to reign! How I wish that you really had begun to reign, so that we, too, could together with ᵖyou reign as kings+!+ 9 For it seems to me that God, when it comes to us apostles, has assigned us to the least important place of all, at the very+ back of the victor’s procession, utterly humiliated in front of everyone like men sentenced to die in the arena;+ we have become for the world, for both angels and men alike,+ a spectacle. 10 We are fools for the sake of the Messiah. You, though, are so+ wise in union with the Messiah! We are weak. You, however, are strong! You are held in high esteem! We, however, are dishonored. 11 Up to this moment we are hungry and thirsty and in rags and beaten and homeless 12 and hard at work, toiling with our own hands. When insulted we bless, when persecuted we endure, 13 when slandered we answer kindly. We have become the very+ refuse of the world—the scum, up to the present moment,+ of all mankind. 14 It is+ not to make you feel ashamed that I am writing these things, but to warn you as my dearly loved children.+ 15 For even if you were to have in union with the Messiah thousands and thousands+ of guardians, you have only one father.+ In union with Messiah Jesus, you see, through the gospel, it was I+ who became your father. 16 In light of that, I beg you: Follow my example.+ 17 That is the reason why I have sent you Timothy, my dearly loved and trustworthy+ son in union with the Lord; you he will remind about my way of life in union with the Messiah, which agrees with what I teach everywhere,+ in every assembly.
18 Now, thinking that I won’t make a return visit to you,+ some have become proud and arrogant. 19 I will come to you soon, however, if the Lord wills, and I will find out for myself not only what kind of fancy words these arrogant people are using, but whether they have God’s power.+ 20 The Kingdom of God is a matter not+ of fine-sounding rhetoric,+ you see, but of power.+ 21 Which do ᵖyou prefer? Is it+ with a rod of discipline+ that I should come to you, or with love and a gentle spirit?
+1:1Or called. Following L-N in translation here (see L-N, 33.314).+1:2In Greek, the grammar switches here from the singular (describing the assembly as a corporate entity) to the plural (describing those who make up the assembly).+1:2Lit summoned to be holy, or called/summoned to be saints. Cf 1 Th 4:7, 5:23; 2 Th 2:13.+1:3“All of” is drawn from the plural “you” here.+1:3Unless otherwise marked (through superscript—ˢyou), all second person pronouns are in the second person plural.+1:3χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη ( charis kai eirēnē) is in a split focal position (see BART Display), and thus commas and inversion have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:5ἐν παντὶ ( en panti) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:5Or speech.+1:6Translating μαρτύριον ( marturion) here in a way similar to the translation at 2 Th 1:10 (see notes there).+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.+1:7Translating the genitive as a subjective genitive. Cf ISV, NIV, TEV.+1:8Lit who.+1:8For the meaning of βεβαιόω ( bebaioō) here, see L-N, 31.91. Col 2:7 makes it clear what Paul means here.+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. πιστὸς ( pistos) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore inversion has been used to give this element extra focus and stress. Cf ISV.+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.+1:10ME(H)/IT (see UBSHS [1 Co], 20).+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). τὸ αὐτὸ ( to auto) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore this element within the ME has been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:10The participle here has been interpreted as a permissive imperative. This is reflected in the translation (cf 2 Co 13:11).+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.+1:11γάρ ( gar) here is signaling strength and support for what precedes.+1:11ἔριδες ( erides) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+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).The same grammatical form is used for the various persons in the sequence that follows.+1:12IT. See notes at Ga 1:18.+1:12Setting the stage in translation here for 1 Co 3:23 (see notes at 1 Co 3:22-23).+1:13Παῦλος ( Paulos) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:13Or on your behalf, or in your place.+1:13In Greek, questions that begin with μὴ ( mē) expect a negative answer (see Black, Grammar, 170; Mounce, Grammar, 296).+1:13εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ( eis to onoma Paulou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:13Cf Col 1:13.+1:14οὐδένα ὑμῶν ( oudena humōn) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an indefinite article, adjective, and the negative particle have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:15τις ( tis) is in P2 (see BART Display), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:15εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα ( eis to emon onoma) is in P2 (see BART Display), and thus a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:15ἐμὸν ( emon) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:16Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:16τὸν Στεφανᾶ ( ton stephana) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:16τινα ἄλλον ( tina allon) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give this constituent extra focus and emphasis.+1:17βαπτίζειν ( baptizein) and εὐαγγελίζεσθαι ( euangelizesthai) are in E-O, as part of a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), and therefore the negative particle has been placed immediately before the counterpoint to give extra focus to these elements.+1:17Lit not with wisdom of speech/word. ME (see BDAG, 599, sv λόγος 1.a.β.; notes at 1 Th 1:5).+1:18The datives in this verse have been interpreted as ethical datives. This is reflected in the translation. Cf 2 Co 2:14-16.+1:18The present participle of ἀπόλλυμι ( apollumi) here is pointing readers to the final fate of unbelievers (see notes at 2 Th 1:5; cf Php 1:28; 2 Th 2:10). Eternal ruin is meant (cf Jn 3:16; Rm 2:12; 2 Th 1:9, 2:10). Cf NAB, NEB, NJB, REB, TNT. Cf also UBSHS (1 Co), 28.+1:18μωρία ( mōria) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus a downtoner and an adverb have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:18Or deliverance. Maintaining consistency in the translation of the present participles in this verse (see preceding clause; cf translation and notes at 2 Th 1:5; Rm 2:1-11, 5:9-10, 8:23; Php 1:28; 2 Th 1:5-10). Cf NAB, NJB, REB, TNT.+1:18δύναμις θεοῦ ( dunamis theou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus an amplifier and emphatic adjective have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:19IT. See BDAG, 934, sv σοφία 1; UBSHS [1 Co], 30, 31. This is referring to mere human wisdom, which God doesn’t in fact see as wise.+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.+1:20IT. See note at “so-called” in v 19.+1:20Lit Did not God make foolish the wisdom of the world? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 31). Cf TEV. In Greek, questions that begin with οὐ ( ou) expect an affirmative answer (Black, Grammar, 170; Mounce, Grammar, 296). This has been made clear in the translation.+1:21Lit Since in the wisdom of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 52; UBSHS [1 Co], 32). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:21τὸν θεόν ( ton theon) is in an embedded DFE position (see BART Display), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:21IT. See note at “so-called” in v 19.+1:21Cf Mt 11:25-28; Jn 1:18.+1:21διὰ τῆς μωρίας τοῦ κηρύγματος ( dia tēs mōrias tou kērugmatos) is in P2 (see BART Display), and thus a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:21IT. Cf TEV; UBSHS [1 Co], 32; v 1:18 above.+1:21Lit God. Since the situation and topic frame was rendered with an ME (see first note in v 21), a personal pronoun has been used here in translation.+1:21Or in him. The object of faith is implied contextually. Cf CJB.+1:22σημεῖα ( sēmeia) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:22Lit Greeks.+1:22σοφίαν ( sophian) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:23IT (see BSL, 1 Co 1:23, sv κηρύσσω).+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.+1:24θεοῦ ( theou) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:24θεοῦ ( theou) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+1:25IT. See notes at 1:19; BDAG, 451, sv θεός 3.f.α.; UBSHS [1 Co], 35. Cf TEV.+1:25σοφώτερον τῶν ἀνθρώπων ( sophōteron tōn anthrōpōn) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:25IT. See note at Mt 19:26.+1:26Lit look at your calling. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 1:26; UBSHS [1 Co], 37). Cf NET, TEV.+1:26Lit not many were wise according to the flesh, not many were powerful, not many were high-born. ME (see DBL Greek, #2302; L-N, 87.27; UBSHS [1 Co], 37). Cf NCV, NET, TEV.+1:27τὰ μωρὰ τοῦ κόσμου ( ta mōra tou kosmou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:27Lit the foolish things of the world. ME Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:27Or chose, or has chosen. The aorist has been interpreted as functioning gnomically in this context (note especially “all flesh” in the purpose clause of v 29, indicating a broader application than just to the Corinthians themselves). This is reflected in the translation. The same truth is reflected time and again throughout the OT and NT. Cf, eg, Dt 7:7-9; 1 Sm 16:1-12; 2 Sm 7:8; Am 7:14; Ac 4:13.+1:27Cf Dt 7:7-9; 1 Sm 16:1-12; 2 Sm 7:8; Am 7:14; Ac 4:13. “For himself” is drawn from the middle voice here.+1:27τὰ ἀσθενῆ τοῦ κόσμου ( ta asthenē tou kosmou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:27Lit the weak things of the world. ME. Cf CJB, TEV.+1:28τὰ ἀγενῆ τοῦ κόσμου καὶ τὰ ἐξουθενημένα ( ta agenē tou kosmou kai ta exouthenēmena) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+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). τὰ ὄντα ( ta onta) is in P2 (see BART Display; note, though that the BART Display is marked for focal ambiguity), and has therefore been placed in clause-final for extra focus and stress.+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).+1:30ἐξ αὐτοῦ ( ex autou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent. δὲ ( de) has also been used as a spacer to the same end.+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.+1:30The dative here has been interpreted as a dative of advantage. This is reflected in the translation.+1:30ἀπὸ θεοῦ ( apo theou) is in a split focal position (see BART Display), and therefore italics have been used to give this element extra focus and emphasis. Cf Mt 6:33.+1:30“In this area, it closely approximates salvation” (\it BDAG, 247, sv δικαιοσύνη 2).+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]).+1:31A condition is implied in the participle here (for more on implicit conditions in Greek, see Wallace, Grammar, 687-9). Cf NCV, NLT; NCV, NET, and TEV at Jr 9:24.+1:31Lit boasts. ME (see notes at 2 Co 1:14).+1:31ἐν κυρίῳ ( en kuriō) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus a demonstrative pronoun, adverb, and colon have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+1:31Following the MT in translation here. Cf NLT.+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+2:1καθ’ ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας ( kath’ huperochēn logou ē sophias) is receiving extra prominence (see BART Display and LDGNT; note, though, that the BART Display is marked for focal ambiguity), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this element.+2:1The genitive has been interpreted as functioning in the a subjective/source range. This is reflected in the translation. Looking to 1 Co 2:7, Eph 3:5, and Col 1:26 for the compressed verbal information here. “Entrusted” is also another good candidate (see 1 Co 4:1; cf 1 Th 2:4)+2:2τι ( ti) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give this element extra focus and emphasis.+2:2ἐσταυρωμένον ( estaurōmenon) is in an embedded DFE position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+2:3ἐν ἀσθενείᾳ καὶ ἐν φόβῳ καὶ ἐν τρόμῳ πολλῷ ( en astheneia kai en phobō kai en tromō pollō) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+2:3γίνομαι ( ginomai) with ἐν ( en) here is signaling a state of being (see BDAG, 198, sv 5.c.).+2:4IT. See notes at 1 Co 1:6-7; 1 Th 1:5. This also implied by ἀπόδειξις ( apodeixis), which is used in the counterpoint. Cf L-N, 28.52; UBSHS [1 Co], 47.+2:4ἐν πειθοῖ[ς] σοφίας [λόγοις] ἀλλ’ἐν ἀποδείξει πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως ( en peithoi[s] sophhias [logois] all’ en apodeixei pneumatos kai dunameōs) are in E-O, as part of a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), and therefore the negative particle has been placed directly before the counterpoint to give extra focus to these constituents.+2:4IT. Cf NCV, TEV.+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.+2:6IT (see UBSHS [1 Co], 52).+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.+2:7θεοῦ ( theou) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+2:7In Pauline theology, the “mystery” is now considered disclosed to believers (cf, eg, Rm 16:25; Eph 3:3-9; Col 1:25-28), though it is still hidden to some (which seems to be implied by the perfect tense here; see UBSHS [1 Co], 54). Cf NLT.+2:7IT. (see BDAG, 662, sv 1.b.).+2:7Cf NET. Cf also 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.+2:8τὸν κύριον τῆς δόξης ( ton kurion tēs doxēs) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus an emphatic adjective has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+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. ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου ( epi kardian anthrōpou) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and therefore this element within the ME has been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+2:9Is 64:4+2:10Cf Eph 3:4-6; Col 1:26-27.+2:10πάντα ( panta) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+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.+2:12τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου ( to pneuma tou kosmou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), as part of a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), with ἀλλὰ τὸ πνεῦμα τὸ ἐκ τοῦ θεοῦ ( alla to pneuma to ek tou theou) in a split focal position (see BART Display), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this element.+2:13διδακτοῖς ἀνθρωπίνης σοφίας ( didaktois antrhōpinēs sophias) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display). Italics have thus been used to give the key word extra focus and emphasis (the next clause makes it clear what is being contrasted).+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.+2:13Drawing from ANLEX (see ANLEX, 318, sv πνευματικός 2) and the UBSHS (see UBSHS [1 Co], 61) in translation here. πνευματικὰ ( pneumatika) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), though there is some focal ambiguity here (see BART Display). Commas have thus been used to give extra focus to these elements, with πνευματικὰ in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+2:13Following L-N in translation here (see L-N, 12.21). The context clearly favors understanding “spiritual” in the sense of things derived from the Spirit, rather than things about the Spirit. Cf Eph 1:18, 3:5.+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.+2:14μωρία ( mōria) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a downtoner has been used to give extra focus to this element, which has also been placed in clause-final to the same end.+2:14πνευματικῶς ( pneumatikōs) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction and adverb have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+2:14Drawing from ANLEX in the translation of πνευματικῶς ( pneumatikōs) here (see ANLEX, 318, sv 2).+2:14For the meaning of ἀνακρίνω ( anakrinō) in this context, see UBSHS (1 Co), 62. That this is in fact the intended meaning here, is confirmed by the contrast with the person who is “unable to understand.” Cf the Bereans, who “examined” (ἀνακρίνω) the Scriptures to discern the truth of what they were hearing.+2:15A condition is implied in the participle here. For more on implicit conditions in Greek, see Wallace, Grammar, 687-9.+2:15Maintaining consistency in translation with verse 13.+2:15Maintaining consistency in translation (ἀνακρίνω [ anakrinō] is used again).+2:15ὑπ’ οὐδενὸς ( hup’ oudenos) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give this constituent extra focus and emphasis.+2:15Cf 1 Co 4:8-13; Heb 11.+2:16A loose quotation of Is 40:13 (LXX).+2:16νοῦν κυρίου ( noun kuriou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an emphatic adjective has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+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.+3:2γάλα ( gala) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+3:2ἔτι νῦν ( eti nun) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this element, which has also been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+3:3ἔτι ( eti) is in P2 (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:3Lit for still you are fleshly. ME (see note at v 1).+3:3ζῆλος καὶ ἔρις ( zēlos kai eris) is in an embedded DFE position (see BART Display), and has therefore been placed in clause-final (with the help of a dummy subject) for extra focus and stress.+3:3Maintaining consistency in translation with 1 Co 1:11(see translation and note there).+3:3σαρκικοί ( sarkikoi) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:3κατὰ ἄνθρωπον ( kata anthrōpon) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this element.+3:3Lit according to man. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 3:3). Cf CJB, LET, NCV, NET, NLT, TEV.+3:4ἄνθρωποί ( anthrōpoi) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent within the ME (see following note).+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.+3:7ὁ φυτεύων ἐστίν τι οὔτε ὁ ποτίζων ἀλλ’ ὁ αὐξάνων θεός ( ho phuteuōn estin ti oute ho potizōn all’ ho auxanōn theos) is in a split focal position (see BART Display and LDGNT), as part of a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this element.+3:7Cf NAB.+3:8ἕν ( hen) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give this element extra focus and emphasis within the ME.+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.+3:8τὸν ἴδιον μισθὸν ( ton idion misthon) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore κατὰ τὸν ἴδιον κόπον ( kata ton idion kopon) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus to this element, which has been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+3:8Or wages.+3:9θεοῦ συνεργοί ( theou sunergoi) is in a split focal position (see BART Display; cf LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction and italics have been used to give extra focus and emphasis to this element.+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.+3:9θεοῦ γεώργιον ( theou geōrgion) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), with θεοῦ ( theou) in an embedded focal position (see BART Display). The embedded element has been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:9θεοῦ οἰκοδομή ( theou oikodomē) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), with θεοῦ ( theou) in an embedded focal position (see BART Display). The embedded element has been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+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).+3:10θεμέλιον ( themelion) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+3:11θεμέλιον ἄλλον παρὰ τὸν κείμενον ( themlion allon para ton keimenon) is in a split focal position (see BART Display; note, though, that the BART Display is marked for focal ambiguity), and therefore γὰρ ( gar) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus to this element.+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).+3:13IT (note the presence of ὁποῖος [ hopoios] later in the verse). Cf TEV.+3:13φανερὸν ( phaneron) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+3:13Or because each person’s work. Lit it.+3:13ἐν πυρὶ ( en puri) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give this element extra focus and emphasis. Cf 2 Pt 3.+3:13ὁποῖόν ( hopoion) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been segmented with dashes for extra focus and emphasis.+3:14μισθὸν ( misthon) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give extra focus and emphasis to this constituent.+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.+3:16ναὸς θεοῦ ( naos theou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an emphatic adjective has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+3:16Or in you, or among you.+3:17φθείρει ( phtheirei) is in a DFE position (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:17ἅγιός ( hagios) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:18ἐξαπατάτω ( exapatatō) is in a DFE position (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:18σοφὸς ( sophos) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:18Lit in this age. ME (see L-N, 41.38). Cf NIV, NLT.+3:18μωρὸς ( mōros) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+3:18IT. Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+3:19IT. See note at “so-called” in v 1:19.+3:19μωρία παρὰ τῷ θεῷ ( mōria part tō theō) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adjective has been used to give this element extra focus and emphasis.+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.+3:21πάντα ( panta) is in P2 (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+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.+3:22πάντα ( panta) is in P2 (see BART Display), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+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.+4:2Cf L-N, 92.35.+4:2Or faithful. Cf 1 Th 2:1-4; 1 Ti 1:10. πιστός ( pistos) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore the clause has been structured to give extra focus to this element.+4:3The dative here has been interpreted as an ethical dative. This is reflected in the translation.+4:3εἰς ἐλάχιστόν ( eis elachiston) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been use to give extra focus to this constituent. Cf CJB, NLT.+4:3ὑφ’ ὑμῶν ( hup’ humōn) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a comma has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+4:3ἀνθρωπίνης ( anthrōpinēs) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has thus been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+4:3Lit by a human day. ME (see L-N, 56.1; UBSHS [1 Co], 89).+4:3ἐμαυτὸν ( emauton) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and thus an adverb and a possessive adjective have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+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. ME/IT (see L-N, 27.44).+4:4κύριός ( kurios) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and has therefore been italicized for extra focus and emphasis.+4:5πρὸ καιροῦ ( pro kairou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore ὥστε ( hōste) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus to this constituent. Also, ὥστε is interpreted as signaling a result drawn not just from the preceding verse, but from the section as a whole, and therefore I have placed v 5 in its own paragraph (to compensate for the fact that ὥστε has been used as a spacer, which would make a translation like “so then” a bit awkward here).+4:5IT. Cf ESV, NRSV, RSV; UBSHS [1 Co], 90.+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).+4:6εἷς ( eis) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give extra focus and emphasis to this element within the ME (see following note).+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.+4:7τίς ( tis) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an adverb has been used to give extra focus to this constituent within the ME (see following note).+4:7Lit Who differentiates you? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 95). Cf Re 3:17-19.+4:7ME/IT. Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+4:7Cf TEV. In this context, τίς ( tis) seems to be functioning rhetorically in a way similar to how πῶς ( pōs) does in certain contexts (see BDAG, 901, sv πῶς 1.a.β., 1.a.γ.; cf Ibid, 1007, sv τίς 2, 3). Cf also Ga 2:14, 4:10.+4:8συμβασιλεύσωμεν ( sumbasileusōmen) is in a DFE position (see BART Display), has therefore been placed in clause-final for extra focus and stress.+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.+4:9ἐσχάτους ( eschatous) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore adverbs have been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+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).+4:9θέατρον ( theatron) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore καὶ ἀγγέλοις καὶ ἀνθρώποις ( kai angelois kai anthrōpois) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus to this constituent, which has also been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+4:10Paul is using irony and sarcasm here as a form of rebuke. Cf NIV, note at 1 Co 1:19.+4:13ὡς περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου ( hōs perikatharmata tou kosmou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore an emphatic adjective has been used to give extra focus to this constituent.+4:13πάντων ( pantōn) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and therefore ἕως ἄρτι ( heōs arti) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus to this constituent.+4:14Οὐκ ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς ( ouk entrepōn humas) and νουθετῶ[ν] ( nouthetōn) are in a split focal position (see BART Display), and constitute a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to these elements.+4:14ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ ( hōs tekna mou agapēta) is in an embedded focal position (see BART Display), and has thus been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+4:15μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς ( murious paidagōgous) is in an embedded P2 position (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore repetition (μυρίος [ murios] is functioning hyperbolically here [see L-N, 60.7; BSL, 1 Co 4:15, sv; cf ESV, RSV]) has been used to give extra focus to this constituent, which has also been placed in clause-final to the same end+4:15Lit but not many fathers. ME. Cf NLT, TEV.+4:15ἐγὼ ( egō) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give this element extra focus and stress.+4:16Lit become imitators of me. ME. Cf NCV, TEV. μιμηταί μου ( mimētai mou) is in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore italics have been used to give extra focus and emphasis to this element within the ME.+4:17Or faithful, or dependable, or loyal.+4:17πανταχοῦ ( pantachou) and ἐν πάσῃ ἐκκλησίᾳ ( en pasē ekklēsia) are in P2 (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a comma has been used to give extra focus to these constituents.+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; translation and note at 1 Th 1:5). Cf ISV, NLT, TEV.+4:20ἐν λόγῳ ( en logō) and ἀλλ’ ἐν δυνάμει ( all’ en dunamei) are in a split focal position (see BART Display; cf LDGNT), as part of a point-counterpoint series (see LDGNT), and therefore γὰρ ( gar) has been used as a spacer to give extra focus and emphasis to this element. The negative particle has also been positioned before the counterpoint to the same end.+4:20ME(H)/IT. See note at 1 Th 1:5.+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.+4:21ἐν ῥάβδῳ ἢ ἐν ἀγάπῃ πνεύματί τε πραΰτητο ( en rabdō ē en agapē penumati te prautēto) is in a split focal position (see BART Display and LDGNT), and therefore a cleft-construction has been used to give extra focus to this element.+4:21IT (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 4:21). Cf NET.
=