King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 1:15 Mean?
“Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.”
1 Corinthians 1:15 · KJV
Context
13
Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
14
I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
15
Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
16
And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.
17
For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. words: or, speech
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryLest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name (hina me tis eipe hoti eis to emon onoma ebaptisa, ἵνα μή τις εἴπῃ ὅτι εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα ἐβάπτισα)—Paul's concern is not that people would say this (he knows they wouldn't accuse him directly) but that the factionalism could create this impression. Baptism in the name of (eis to onoma, εἰς τὸ ὄνομα) signifies ownership, allegiance, and identification. To be baptized into someone's name is to become their disciple, bound to them. Paul is horrified that anyone might think Corinthian Christians belonged to him rather than to Christ.
The phrase eis to emon onoma (εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα, "into my name") would imply Paul as the object of faith and loyalty—a notion Paul utterly rejects. Christian baptism is always and only eis to onoma Christou (into the name of Christ), never into a human leader's name. This is a crucial safeguard against personality cults and hierarchical structures that replace Christ with human mediators.
The phrase eis to emon onoma (εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα, "into my name") would imply Paul as the object of faith and loyalty—a notion Paul utterly rejects. Christian baptism is always and only eis to onoma Christou (into the name of Christ), never into a human leader's name. This is a crucial safeguard against personality cults and hierarchical structures that replace Christ with human mediators.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Mystery religions and philosophical schools in the Greco-Roman world often practiced initiatory rites that bound the initiate to the cult leader or divine patron. Paul deliberately distances Christian baptism from these models. Baptism is public identification with Christ's death and resurrection (Rom 6:3-4), not private allegiance to a human teacher.
Reflection Questions
- How might we subtly shift baptism or church membership from identification with Christ to allegiance to a pastor or denomination?
- What safeguards can churches put in place to ensure that baptism and other ordinances point to Christ, not to human leaders?
- How does Paul's horror at the thought of baptizing "into his own name" model humility for Christian leaders today?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 10 wordsμή2 of 10
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
εἰς6 of 10
“in”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
ἐβάπτισα10 of 10
“I had baptized”
G907to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Corinthians 1:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Corinthians 1:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge