King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 2:10 Mean?

“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.”

Context

Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

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Topics in This Verse

Holy Spirit

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10) **But God hath revealed them unto us.**—Here the emphatic word is “us.” The latter part of 1Corinthians 2:8-9 are parenthetical, and the sense goes back to the beginning of 1Corinthians 2:8. “None of the princes of this age know these things, but God hath revealed them unto *us* His apostles and teachers” (Matthew 13:11; Matthew 16:17; 2Corinthians 12:1). This revelation of spiritual truth is made by the Holy Spirit of God to our spirits (Romans 8:16). The Apostle gives two proofs that the Apostles have this knowledge, and that the Holy Spirit is the source of it: 1. (1Corinthians 2:10-11), because the Holy Spirit alone is capable of imparting this knowledge; and 2. (1Corinthians 2:12-16), because the Holy Spirit has been given to *us* the Apostles. **Searcheth all things.**—The word “searcheth” here does not convey the idea of inquiry for the purpose of acquiring knowledge, but rather complete and accurate knowledge itself, as in Romans 8:27; see also Psalm 139:1.

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 2:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.