King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 13:9 Mean?

1 Corinthians 13:9 in the King James Version says “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.”

1 Corinthians 13:9 · KJV

Context

7

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. fail: Gr. vanish away

9

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10

But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. done away: Gr. vanish away

11

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. thought: or, reasoned put away: Gr. vanish away

Read 1 Corinthians 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For we know in part (ἐκ μέρους γινώσκομεν, ek merous ginōskomen)—Ek merous means "from a part" or "partially." Ginōskō is experiential, relational knowledge. Our current theological understanding, biblical expertise, and spiritual insight are fragmentary, incomplete. Even our best grasp of God's truth is like seeing individual puzzle pieces without the full picture.

And we prophesy in part (καὶ ἐκ μέρους προφητεύομεν, kai ek merous prophēteuomen)—Even Spirit-inspired proclamation is partial. Prophets don't have comprehensive revelation; they speak what God gives them in the moment. The repetition of ek merous emphasizes the limitation: all current spiritual gifts operate within the constraints of this age.

This verse grounds the previous statement (v. 8) that gifts will be abolished. Why? Because they're partial by nature. Prophecy and knowledge are like scaffolding around a building under construction—necessary now, but removed when the building is complete. Paul is preparing for verse 12's contrast: now we see dimly, then face to face.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Corinthians' obsession with spiritual knowledge (gnōsis) and prophetic gifting led them to believe they had arrived at spiritual perfection (4:8, "Already you are filled! Already you have become rich! Without us you have become kings!"). Paul confronts their realized eschatology by insisting that even the highest gifts are fragmentary in this age. Complete knowledge awaits the age to come.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does recognizing that your theological knowledge is 'in part' cultivate humility in doctrinal discussions and denominational debates?
  2. In what ways might you be guilty of the Corinthian error of thinking you've 'arrived' spiritually or intellectually?
  3. How should 'we know in part' affect your attitude toward Christians who disagree with you on secondary theological matters?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
ἐκ1 of 8

“in”

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

μέρους2 of 8

“part”

G3313

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

γὰρ3 of 8

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

γινώσκομεν4 of 8

“we know”

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

καὶ5 of 8

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐκ6 of 8

“in”

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

μέρους7 of 8

“part”

G3313

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

προφητεύομεν·8 of 8

“we prophesy”

G4395

to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office

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 13:9 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 13:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Colossians 2:2-3Ephesians 3:18-191 Corinthians 8:21 Corinthians 2:9Psalms 139:61 Corinthians 13:12

Test Your Knowledge

1 Corinthians 13 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 1 Corinthians 13 with CommentaryAll 1 Corinthians ChaptersComplete 1 Corinthians QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes