1 Corinthians 1:22 Meaning and Explanation
“For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul observes that Jews demand miraculous signs while Greeks pursue philosophical wisdom.
What Does 1 Corinthians 1:22 Mean?
Paul names what the two great cultures of his world were each looking for. The Jews demanded signs, dramatic proofs of power, while the Greeks pursued wisdom, the elegance of philosophy and argument.
Each people had its own measure of what was credible and impressive, and a crucified Messiah satisfied neither. The point is that everyone comes to God with their own expectations of how He ought to act. But God will not be confined to our demands. He answers in His own way, on His own terms, through the cross, which neither the sign-seekers nor the wisdom-seekers were prepared to accept.
1 Corinthians 1:22 in the Original Language
semeion (σημεῖον), 'sign' -- a miraculous indication meant to confirm or attest.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 1:22
What does 1 Corinthians 1:22 mean?
Paul observes that Jews demand miraculous signs while Greeks pursue philosophical wisdom.