And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
What does 1 Corinthians 13:2 mean?
The excellent way had in view in the close of the former chapter, is not what is meant by charity in our common use of the word, almsgiving, but love in its fullest meaning; true love to God and man.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 13:2
And though I have the gift of prophecy - See the note at 1 Corinthians 12:10 ; note at 1 Corinthians 14:1 . And understand all mysteries - On the meaning of the word "mystery" see note, 1 Corinthians 2:7 . This passage proves that it was one part of the prophetic office, as referred to here, to be able to understand and explain the "mysteries" of religion; that is, the things that were before unknown, or unrevealed.
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Context in 1 Corinthians 13
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1 Corinthians 13 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as the resurrection chapter and closing. First Corinthians is a pastoral and doctrinal letter correcting divisions while teaching about holiness, worship, gifts, and resurrection. Read this chapter with the wider themes of the cross, church order, and holiness in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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