King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 4:20 Mean?

“For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.”

Context

Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.

But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power.

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

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Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8-12. Now--**"For" is the true reading: the apostle is merely assigning an additional motive to Christian forbearance. **I say that Jesus Christ was--**"hath become" **a minister of the circumcision--**a remarkable expression, meaning "the Father's Servant for the salvation of the circumcision (or, of Israel)." **for the truth of God--**to make good the veracity of God towards His ancient people. **to confirm the--**Messianic **promises made unto the fathers--**To cheer the Jewish believers, whom he might seem to have been disparaging, and to keep down Gentile pride, the apostle holds up Israel's salvation as the primary end of Christ's mission. But next after this, Christ was sent.

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 4:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.