1 Corinthians 2:5 Meaning and Explanation
“That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul preached as he did so that the Corinthians' faith would rest on God's power, not on human wisdom.
What Does 1 Corinthians 2:5 Mean?
Here Paul gives the reason behind his plain preaching, completing the thought of the previous verse. He held back human cleverness on purpose, so that the faith of the Corinthians would not stand on the shifting ground of men's wisdom but on the firm foundation of God's power.
Faith built on a brilliant teacher will fall when that teacher fails or a better speaker comes along. Faith built on the power of God endures, because God does not fail. Paul cared more about the durability of their trust than about being admired. This is wisdom for every believer: the things that most impress us are not always the things that hold us up. What lasts is faith anchored in God himself, who remains steadfast when every human prop gives way.
1 Corinthians 2:5 in the Original Language
pistis (πίστις), 'faith' -- trust and reliance, a confidence that leans its full weight on the one it believes.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 2:5
What does 1 Corinthians 2:5 mean?
Paul preached as he did so that the Corinthians' faith would rest on God's power, not on human wisdom.