King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 14:38 Mean?

1 Corinthians 14:38 in the King James Version says “But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.”

1 Corinthians 14:38 · KJV

Context

36

What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?

37

If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.

38

But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.

39

Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

40

Let all things be done decently and in order.

Read 1 Corinthians 14 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant—Greek ei de tis agnoei, agnoeitō (εἰ δέ τις ἀγνοεῖ, ἀγνοείτω). The present imperatives suggest willful ignorance: "if anyone is ignoring [this], let him continue to be ignored." Some manuscripts read agnoeitai (passive, "let him be ignored")—divine or communal ignoring of those who reject apostolic authority.

Paul's sobering warning: those who refuse to acknowledge his teaching as the Lord's command (v. 37) reveal their spiritual ignorance and will be ignored—by God or the church. This isn't harsh; it's realistic: if you reject revelation, you remain in ignorance. The terse command closes debate: Paul has argued his case (vv. 1-36), appealed to universal practice (v. 33), asserted apostolic authority (v. 37). Those still rejecting his teaching are unteachable.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Paul knows some will refuse correction despite his thorough argument. He leaves them to their chosen ignorance, a form of church discipline. The church should recognize and avoid those who persist in disorder.

Reflection Questions

  1. What's the difference between honest confusion and willful ignorance?
  2. Why does Paul not argue further but simply pronounce judgment on the willfully ignorant?
  3. How should the church respond to those who persistently reject apostolic teaching?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 5 words
εἰ1 of 5
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δέ2 of 5

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

τις3 of 5
G5100

some or any person or object

ἀγνοέιτω4 of 5

“be ignorant”

G50

not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)

ἀγνοέιτω5 of 5

“be ignorant”

G50

not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)

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 14:38 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 14:38 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Timothy 4:3-41 Timothy 6:3-5Hosea 4:17Matthew 7:6Revelation 22:11-12Matthew 15:14

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