1:14 1:14

1 Corinthians 1:15

1:16 1:16

Bible Versions

Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
Lest {G3363} any {G5100} should say {G2036} that {G3754} I had baptized {G907} in {G1519} mine own {G1699} name {G3686}.
otherwise someone might say that you were indeed immersed into my name.
so no one can say that you were baptized into my name.
lest any man should say that ye were baptized into my name.

1 Corinthians 1:15 is a crucial verse in Paul's opening argument against the factions and divisions that plagued the early church in Corinth. Here, Paul explains his specific reason for not having baptized many of the Corinthians himself.

Context

This verse follows Paul's strong rebuke of the Corinthian believers for their divisive loyalties, where some claimed to follow Paul, others Apollos, and still others Cephas (Peter), while some declared allegiance to Christ alone (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul had just stated that he thanked God he had baptized very few of them, specifically mentioning Crispus and Gaius (1 Corinthians 1:14). Verse 15 provides the explicit reason for this selective baptism: to prevent anyone from misinterpreting his actions and attributing a personal following to him.

Key Themes

  • Avoiding Personality Cults: Paul was acutely aware of the human tendency to exalt leaders and form exclusive groups around them. By limiting his direct involvement in baptisms, he preempted any accusation that he was trying to build a personal following or establish a "Pauline" sect within the church. His ministry was always about pointing people to Christ, not himself.
  • The True Meaning of Baptism: The verse implicitly highlights that Christian baptism is into the name of Christ, not into the name of any human minister. To be "baptized in mine own name" would imply allegiance to Paul, rather than to Jesus Christ, which fundamentally misunderstands the sacrament's purpose. The focus should always be on the one who saves, not the one who performs the ritual. Romans 6:3-4 clearly articulates baptism as being united with Christ in His death and resurrection.
  • Christian Unity: Paul's concern here underscores the overarching theme of unity within the body of Christ. Divisions based on human leaders contradict the very nature of the church, which is one body with Christ as its head (Ephesians 4:4-6).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "in mine own name" (Greek: eis to emon onoma) is significant. The Greek word onoma (name) often carries the weight of authority, character, and identity. To baptize "in the name of" someone means to dedicate or consecrate to that person, acknowledging their authority and identity. Paul vehemently denies this was his intention or outcome. His baptisms, like all true Christian baptisms, were performed into the name of Jesus Christ.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless wisdom for both leaders and congregants today:

  • For Leaders: It serves as a powerful reminder for spiritual leaders to consistently direct attention to Christ, not to themselves. Ministry is about serving God's people and glorifying Him, not building personal empires or seeking human adulation.
  • For Congregants: Believers should be wary of placing undue emphasis or loyalty on human personalities, even godly ones. Our ultimate allegiance and identity must always be in Jesus Christ alone, fostering genuine Christian unity rather than sectarianism. The focus should be on the message, not merely the messenger.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 3:28

    Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.

  • John 3:29

    He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:2

    For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.

  • John 7:18

    He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
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