King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 1:4 Mean?
“I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;”
Context
2
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
3
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
4
I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5
That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6
Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **I thank my God.**—Expressions of thankfulness (1Corinthians 1:4-9), serving also to secure at the very outset the attention of those to whom the Apostle is writing. He thus shows that he is not blind to, or forgetful of, their good qualities, although this Epistle is specially written to rebuke their present sins; and also that he is not about to utter words of hopeless condemnation, but of wholesome warning. The emphatic use of the singular, *I* thank *my* God, in contrast to the plural in the previous verses, indicates that St. Paul does not join Sosthenes with him as author of the Epistle, but that it is written in his name alone and with his sole authority.
**The grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ.**—Better, *the grace of God given you in Christ Jesus*—*i.e.,* given to you as being in Christ.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 1:4 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 1:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge