1 Corinthians 1:5

KJV

That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and [in] all knowledge;

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G3754} in {G1722} every thing {G3956} ye are enriched {G4148} by {G1722} him {G846}, in {G1722} all {G3956} utterance {G3056}, and {G2532} in all {G3956} knowledge {G1108};

Complete Jewish Bible

in that you have been enriched by him in so many ways, particularly in power of speech and depth of knowledge.

Berean Standard Bible

For in Him you have been enriched in every way, in all speech and all knowledge,

American Standard Version

that in everything ye were enriched in him, in all utterance and all knowledge;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Serves as a foundational statement within Paul's opening thanksgiving to the Corinthian church, underscoring the comprehensive spiritual endowment they had received from God through Christ. Despite the significant moral and theological challenges that would later be addressed in the epistle, Paul begins by affirming God's abundant grace and faithfulness in enriching them "in every thing," specifically highlighting their proficiency "in all utterance, and in all knowledge," which were prominent spiritual gifts within their community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's introductory thanksgiving, immediately following his declaration of gratitude for [1 Corinthians 1:4](/1_corinthians/1-4 "1 Corinthians 1:4 - Paul's Thanksgiving for God's Grace"). It elaborates on the nature of this divine grace, specifying *how* the Corinthians were enriched. This positive opening, detailing their spiritual abundance, serves as a rhetorical strategy. By acknowledging their gifts and God's faithfulness *before* addressing their numerous shortcomings (such as divisions, immorality, and misuse of spiritual gifts detailed from [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Divisions in the Church") onward), Paul establishes a pastoral tone. He reminds them of the divine source of their spiritual capabilities, thereby setting the stage for his subsequent corrections and exhortations regarding the proper use and stewardship of these very gifts, particularly in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts") through [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Prophecy and Tongues").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, prosperous Roman port city, a melting pot of diverse cultures, philosophies, and religions. Its strategic location fostered a vibrant commercial hub but also contributed to a reputation for moral laxity and intellectual pride. The Corinthian church, though founded by Paul, comprised a mix of Jewish and Gentile converts, many from lower social strata, but also some of influence. Within this environment, spiritual gifts, particularly those involving public display like "utterance" (prophecy, speaking in tongues) and "knowledge" (insight into mysteries), were highly valued and, at times, misused or boasted about. The emphasis on these specific gifts in [1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") reflects the actual spiritual dynamics and tendencies within this particular congregation, which Paul would later need to regulate and reorient towards love and edification (cf. [1 Corinthians 13](/1_corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Way of Love")).

* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the epistle. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Grace and Empowerment**, emphasizing that all spiritual blessings and abilities are gracious endowments from God, not earned human achievements. This directly counters any potential Corinthian pride in their gifts or intellectual prowess. Secondly, it highlights the **Abundance of Spiritual Gifts**, particularly those related to communication and understanding divine truth, which were evidently prominent in Corinth. This sets up Paul's extensive teaching on the nature, diversity, and proper use of spiritual gifts in later chapters, asserting their purpose is for the common good of the body of Christ, as seen in [1 Corinthians 12:7](/1_corinthians/12-7 "1 Corinthians 12:7 - Manifestation of the Spirit for the Common Good"). Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **God's Faithfulness**, implying His unwavering commitment to equip His people for ministry, even when they struggle with spiritual maturity and unity, as He promises to sustain them "unto the end" in [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - God Will Sustain You to the End").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **enriched (Greek, _ploutízō'_):** From the noun _ploutos_ (wealth), this verb means "to make wealthy," "to furnish abundantly," or "to make rich." In this context, it signifies God's overflowing spiritual provision, bestowing spiritual riches and abundance upon believers. It emphasizes that this spiritual wealth is a divine gift, not something earned or accumulated through human effort.
* **utterance (Greek, _lógos'_):** While broadly meaning "word," "reason," or "discourse," here _lógos_ specifically refers to the faculty or gift of speech, particularly in the context of proclaiming, teaching, or speaking divine truth. It encompasses various forms of inspired communication, such as prophecy, teaching, or speaking in tongues, which were highly valued and sometimes contentious gifts within the Corinthian church.
* **knowledge (Greek, _gnōsis'_):** Derived from _ginōskō_ (to know), _gnōsis_ denotes understanding, spiritual insight, or discernment of divine mysteries. It refers to a deeper, experiential understanding of God's truth and spiritual realities, rather than mere intellectual apprehension. In Corinth, this gift was often associated with a sense of superiority, which Paul addresses later in the epistle (e.g., [1 Corinthians 8:1](/1_corinthians/8-1 "1 Corinthians 8:1 - Knowledge Puffs Up, But Love Builds Up")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That in every thing ye are enriched by him,"**: This opening clause establishes the comprehensive nature of God's blessing. The phrase "in every thing" (Greek, _en pantí_) underscores the all-encompassing scope of this divine enrichment. It is not limited to a few areas but extends to every aspect of their spiritual lives. The source of this enrichment is explicitly stated as "by him" (referring to Christ, as per [1 Corinthians 1:4](/1_corinthians/1-4 "1 Corinthians 1:4 - Paul's Thanksgiving for God's Grace")), highlighting the divine origin and Christocentric nature of these spiritual gifts.
* **"in all utterance,"**: This specifies one primary area of their enrichment. "All utterance" (Greek, _en pantí lógō_) points to a comprehensive ability in spoken communication of divine truth. This would include gifts like prophecy, teaching, and perhaps even speaking in tongues, all of which involve verbal expression of spiritual realities. The Corinthians were evidently gifted communicators of spiritual matters.
* **"and [in] all knowledge;"**: This second specific area of enrichment complements the first. "All knowledge" (Greek, _kai en pasē gnōsei_) refers to a comprehensive understanding and spiritual insight into God's truth and mysteries. This is not merely intellectual accumulation but a divinely granted discernment. Together with "utterance," it indicates that the Corinthians possessed both the ability to understand divine truth and the capacity to articulate it.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") to emphasize his point. The use of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis** is evident in the repeated use of "every thing" (_en pantí_) and "all" (_pasē_) when describing their enrichment in "utterance" and "knowledge." This repetition underscores the comprehensive and abundant nature of the spiritual gifts bestowed upon the Corinthians, highlighting that they lacked nothing in terms of spiritual endowment. Furthermore, there is clear **Parallelism** between "in all utterance" and "in all knowledge," linking these two specific spiritual gifts as primary manifestations of their divine enrichment. This pairing suggests that the Corinthians were particularly strong in both the ability to articulate spiritual truth and the capacity to comprehend it. The underlying **Metaphor** of "enriched" (from _ploutízō_) likens spiritual blessings to material wealth, effectively conveying the idea of God's lavish provision and the valuable nature of these spiritual endowments.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") is a powerful testament to the New Testament theology of divine grace and spiritual empowerment. It asserts that all genuine spiritual capabilities and insights within the believer are not self-generated but are sovereignly bestowed by God through Christ. This truth forms the bedrock for understanding the nature of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that they are not earned merits but gracious endowments intended for the building up of the body of Christ. The specific mention of "utterance" and "knowledge" foreshadows Paul's extensive discourse on spiritual gifts in [1 Corinthians 12-14](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts"), where he will correct the Corinthians' misuse and misunderstanding of these very gifts, redirecting their focus from self-exaltation to mutual edification and love. This verse, therefore, establishes the premise that the Corinthians were indeed spiritually gifted, making their subsequent failings all the more poignant and highlighting the critical importance of stewardship and humility in the exercise of God's grace.

* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6-8 "Romans 12:6-8 - Diverse Gifts for Ministry")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for the Equipping of the Saints")
* [1 Peter 4:10-11](/1_peter/4-10-11 "1 Peter 4:10-11 - Steward God's Grace Through Your Gifts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") offers profound insights for contemporary believers, serving as a vital reminder that our spiritual capacities are not products of our own intellect or effort, but gracious gifts from God. This truth should cultivate a deep sense of gratitude, shifting our focus from self-reliance to divine dependence. It calls us to humility, recognizing that any ability we possess to articulate God's truth or to grasp spiritual knowledge is a direct result of His generous provision, thereby preventing pride or self-congratulation. Furthermore, this verse implicitly challenges us to be faithful stewards of these divine endowments. Just as Paul would later instruct the Corinthians on the proper use of their gifts for the edification of the church (cf. [1 Corinthians 14:26](/1_corinthians/14-26 "1 Corinthians 14:26 - All Things for Edification")), we too are called to deploy our "utterance" and "knowledge" not for personal gain or display, but for the glory of God, the strengthening of fellow believers, and the advancement of His kingdom. It encourages a posture of continuous learning and faithful service, recognizing that we have been abundantly equipped for every good work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I recognize God's "enrichment" in my own life, particularly in areas of "utterance" or "knowledge"?**
* **How does the understanding that my spiritual abilities come "by Him" impact my humility and my approach to ministry or service?**
* **Am I using my gifts of communication and understanding to build up others and glorify God, or for personal recognition or gain?**
* **What practical steps can I take to better steward the spiritual "enrichment" God has given me for the benefit of the church and the world?**

### FAQ

**What does "enriched by him" mean in this context?**

Answer: "Enriched by him" means that the Corinthians received an abundance of spiritual blessings and gifts directly from God through Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "enriched" (_ploutízō_) signifies being made wealthy or abundantly furnished. It emphasizes that their spiritual capabilities, particularly in "utterance" (speaking divine truth) and "knowledge" (spiritual insight), were not self-acquired but were gracious, overflowing provisions from a divine source. This highlights God's generosity and faithfulness in equipping His people.

**Why does Paul specifically mention "utterance" and "knowledge"?**

Answer: Paul specifically mentions "utterance" (_lógos_) and "knowledge" (_gnōsis_) because these were evidently prominent and perhaps problematic spiritual gifts within the Corinthian church. The Corinthians highly valued eloquent speech, intellectual prowess, and mystical insights. While these were genuine gifts from God, the Corinthians often misused them, leading to pride, divisions, and a focus on outward display rather than humble service and love. By acknowledging their possession of these gifts upfront, Paul sets the stage for his later teaching in [1 Corinthians 12-14](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts"), where he corrects their understanding and application of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that love is the "more excellent way" ([1 Corinthians 12:31](/1_corinthians/12-31 "1 Corinthians 12:31 - Eagerly Desire the Greater Gifts, and the Most Excellent Way")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 1:5](/1_corinthians/1-5 "1 Corinthians 1:5 - Enriched in Utterance and Knowledge") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very source and embodiment of all spiritual enrichment. He is the "him" by whom believers are enriched. Christ himself is the **Logos**, the divine "utterance" incarnate, through whom God speaks His ultimate word to humanity ([John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God and Creator") and [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken Through His Son")). All true "knowledge" finds its hidden treasures in Christ, for "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")). The spiritual gifts of utterance and knowledge, bestowed upon believers, are manifestations of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sends from the Father ([John 15:26](/john/15-26 "John 15:26 - The Spirit of Truth")). Therefore, the Corinthians' enrichment was not merely a set of abilities, but a participation in the very life and ministry of Christ, empowering them to declare His truth and understand His mysteries, all for the purpose of building up His body, the church, until they come to the "unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God" ([Ephesians 4:13](/ephesians/4-13 "Ephesians 4:13 - Attaining the Fullness of Christ")).

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.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 9:11

Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

2 Corinthians 8:7

¶ Therefore, as ye abound in every [thing, in] faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and [in] all diligence, and [in] your love to us, [see] that ye abound in this grace also.

Colossians 2:3

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Philippians 1:9

¶ And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment;

Romans 15:14

¶ And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

James 3:13

¶ Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

1 Corinthians 12:8

For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;