1 Corinthians 3:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →To gain true wisdom, a person must let go of the world's idea of being wise, even if it looks like folly.
What Does 1 Corinthians 3:18 Mean?
Paul returns to the theme of wisdom that runs through these chapters, warning against self-deception. The kind of wisdom prized in this world can blind a person to the wisdom of God.
To become a fool is to give up the world's standards of cleverness and prestige, embracing the message of Christ that the world counts as foolishness. Only by this surrender does one become truly wise. Real understanding begins where worldly pride ends.
1 Corinthians 3:18 in the Original Language
moros (μωρός), 'fool' -- one regarded as foolish or absurd by ordinary worldly judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 3:18
What does 1 Corinthians 3:18 mean?
To gain true wisdom, a person must let go of the world's idea of being wise, even if it looks like folly.