1 Corinthians 1:14

¶ I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;

I thank {G2168} God {G2316} that {G3754} I baptized {G907} none {G3762} of you {G5216}, but {G1508} Crispus {G2921} and {G2532} Gaius {G1050};

I thank God that I didn’t immerse any of you except Crispus and Gaius —

I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius,

I thank God that I baptized none of you, save Crispus and Gaius;

Commentary

In 1 Corinthians 1:14, the Apostle Paul expresses gratitude that he personally baptized very few members of the Corinthian church. This seemingly unusual statement is central to his overarching argument against the severe divisions and factions that had plagued the community in Corinth.

Context

The early church in Corinth was experiencing significant strife, with believers aligning themselves with different spiritual leaders, proclaiming "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ" (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul's relief at having baptized only a few individuals—specifically Crispus and Gaius—is a direct response to this issue of spiritual pride and personality cults. He wanted to prevent anyone from claiming they were "baptized in Paul's name" (1 Corinthians 1:15), thus elevating a human leader above Christ. This passage highlights Paul's consistent effort to redirect glory to God alone, rather than to himself or other human agents.

Key Themes

  • Unity in Christ: This verse underscores Paul's fervent desire for the Corinthian believers to find their identity and unity solely in Christ, not in human leaders or the circumstances of their baptism. The act of baptism signifies identification with Jesus, not with the one who performs the rite.
  • Paul's Humility and Focus: Paul's statement reveals his humility and his steadfast focus on the true mission of the gospel. He did not want his ministry to become a source of division or a point of human allegiance. His primary calling was to preach the gospel, not to baptize (1 Corinthians 1:17).
  • The Purpose of Baptism: While baptism is a vital ordinance, Paul subtly emphasizes that its efficacy and meaning do not derive from the baptizer. It is a public declaration of faith and an identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, rather than a mark of allegiance to any specific preacher.

Individuals Mentioned

  • Crispus: He was the chief ruler of the synagogue in Corinth who, along with his household, believed in the Lord and was baptized (Acts 18:8). Paul's personal involvement in his baptism is confirmed here.
  • Gaius: A prominent and hospitable member of the Corinthian church. Paul later identifies him as his host and the host of the whole church in Rome (Romans 16:23), suggesting he was a well-known figure and likely a key supporter of the early Christian community.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 1:14 serves as a powerful reminder to guard against any form of spiritual elitism or denominational pride that elevates human leaders or specific traditions above the central figure of Jesus Christ. True Christian unity is found in common allegiance to Christ, not in adherence to a particular pastor, church, or theological school. This verse encourages humility in leadership and a Christ-centered focus in all aspects of church life, ensuring that glory is given to God alone, not to human instruments. It calls us to focus on the message of the cross, which is the power of God for salvation (1 Corinthians 1:18), rather than on human personalities or achievements.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 18:8

    And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

  • Romans 16:23

    Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18

    In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

  • 2 Corinthians 2:14

    Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

  • Colossians 3:15

    And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

  • Ephesians 5:20

    Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

  • 1 Corinthians 14:18

    I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
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