1 Corinthians 14:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul urges them not to think like children, but to be innocent of evil as children are, while mature in their thinking.
What Does 1 Corinthians 14:20 Mean?
Paul calls his readers up to maturity with an affectionate appeal. He plays on the idea of childhood in two directions: there is a childishness to outgrow and a childlikeness to keep.
In malice, in the capacity for harm and cunning, let them stay infants, untrained and innocent. But in understanding let them grow up, thinking with the fullness of mature minds. The gospel does not ask believers to abandon their reason; it asks them to ripen it while keeping their hearts pure. Jesus blessed the childlike heart and also called His followers to be wise. Paul holds both together: innocent toward evil, grown-up in wisdom.
1 Corinthians 14:20 in the Original Language
kakia (κακία), 'malice' -- ill-will or the disposition toward evil, the one thing in which Paul says to remain a child.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 14:20
What does 1 Corinthians 14:20 mean?
Paul urges them not to think like children, but to be innocent of evil as children are, while mature in their thinking.