TRV
Translation
King James Version
God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
Complete Jewish Bible
God is trustworthy: it was he who called you into fellowship with his Son, Yeshua the Messiah, our Lord.
Berean Standard Bible
God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.
American Standard Version
God is faithful, through whom ye were called into the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
World English Bible Messianic
God is faithful, through whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Yeshua the Messiah, our Lord.
Geneva Bible (1599)
God is faithfull, by whom ye are called vnto the fellowship of his Sonne Iesus Christ our Lord.
Young's Literal Translation
faithful is God, through whom ye were called to the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
See also
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In the KJVVerse 28,373 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1 verses 1–9
1 ¶ Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,
2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;
6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:
7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
We have here the apostle's preface to his whole epistle, in which we may take notice,
I. Of the inscription, in which, according to the custom of writing letters then, the name of the person by whom it was written and the persons to whom it was written are both inserted. 1. It is an epistle from Paul, the apostle of the Gentiles, to the church of Corinth, which he himself had planted, though there were some among them that now questioned his apostleship (Co1 9:1, Co1 9:2), and vilified his person and ministry, Co2 10:10. The most faithful and useful ministers are not secure from this contempt. He begins with challenging this character: Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ, through the will of God. He had not taken this honour to himself, but had a divine commission for it. It was proper at any time, but necessary at this time, to assert his character, and magnify his office, when false teachers made a merit of running him down, and their giddy and deluded followers were so apt to set them up in competition with him. It was not pride in Paul, but faithfulness to his trust, in this juncture, to maintain his apostolical character and authority. And, to make this more fully appear, he joins Sosthenes with him in writing, who was a minister of a lower rank. Paul, and Sosthenes his brother, not a fellow-apostle, but a fellow-minister, once a ruler of the Jewish synagogue, afterwards a convert to Christianity, a Corinthian by birth, as is most probable, and dear to this people, for which reason Paul, to ingratiate himself with them, joins them with himself in his first salutations. There is no reason to suppose he was made a partaker of the apostle's inspiration, for which reasons he speaks, through the rest of the epistle, in his own name, and in the singular number. Paul did not in any case lessen his apostolical authority, and yet he was ready upon all occasions to do a kind and condescending thing for their good to whom he ministered. The persons to whom this epistle was directed were the church of God that was at Corinth, sanctified in Christ Jesus, and called to be saints. All Christians are thus far sanctified in Christ Jesus, that they are by baptism dedicated and devoted to him, they are under strict obligations to be holy, and they make profession of real sanctity. If they be not truly holy, it is their own fault and reproach. Note, It is the design of Christianity to sanctify us in Christ. He gave himself for us, to redeem us from all iniquity, and purify us to himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. In conjunction with the church at Corinth, he directs the epistle to all that in every place call on the name of Christ Jesus our Lord, both theirs and ours. Hereby Christians are distinguished from the profane and atheistical, that they dare not live without prayer; and hereby they are distinguished from Jews and Pagans, that they call on the name of Christ. He is their common head and Lord. Observe, In every place in the Christian world there are some that call on the name of Christ. God hath a remnant in all places; and we should have a common concern for and hold communion with all that call on Christ's name.
II. Of the apostolical benediction. Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. An apostle of the prince of peace must be a messenger and minister of peace. This blessing the gospel brings with it, and this blessing every preacher of the gospel should heartily wish and pray may be the lot of all among whom he ministers. Grace and peace - the favour of God, and reconciliation to him. It is indeed the summary of all blessings. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace, was the form of benediction under the Old Testament (Num 6:26), but this advantage we have by the gospel, 1. That we are directed how to obtain that peace from God: it is in and by Christ. Sinners can have no peace with God, nor any good from him, but through Christ. 2. We are told what must qualify us for this peace; namely, grace: first grace, then peace. God first reconciles sinners to himself, before he bestows his peace upon them.
III. Of the apostle's thanksgiving to God on their behalf. Paul begins most of his epistles with thanksgiving to God for his friends and prayer for them. Note, The best way of manifesting our affection to our friends is by praying and giving thanks for them. It is one branch of the communion of saints to give thanks to God mutually for our gifts, graces, and comforts. He gives thanks, 1. For their conversion to the faith of Christ: For the grace which was given you through Jesus Christ, Co1 1:4. He is the great procurer and disposer of the favours of God. Those who are united to him by faith, and made to partake of his Spirit and merits, are the objects of divine favour. God loves them, bears them hearty good-will, and bestows on them his fatherly smiles and blessings. 2. For the abundance of their spiritual gifts. This the church of Corinth was famous for. They did not come behind any of the churches in any gift, Co1 1:7. He specifies utterance and knowledge, Co1 1:5. Where God has given these two gifts, he has given great capacity for usefulness. Many have the flower of utterance that have not the root of knowledge, and their converse is barren. Many have the treasure of knowledge, and want utterance to employ it for the good of others, and then it is in a manner wrapped up in a napkin. But, where God gives both, a man is qualified for eminent usefulness. When the church of Corinth was enriched with all utterance and all knowledge, it was fit that a large tribute of praise should be rendered to God, especially when these gifts were a testimony to the truth of the Christian doctrine, a confirmation of the testimony of Christ among them, Co1 1:6. They were signs and wonders and gifts of the Holy Ghost, by which God did bear witness to the apostles, both to their mission and doctrine (Heb 2:4), so that the more plentifully they were poured forth on any church the more full attestation was given to that doctrine which was delivered by the apostles, the more confirming evidence they had of their divine mission. And it is no wonder that when they had such a foundation for their faith they should live in expectation of the coming of their Lord Jesus Christ, Co1 1:7. It is the character of Christians that they wait for Christ's second coming; all our religion has regard to this: we believe it, and hope for it, and it is the business of our lives to prepare for it, if we are Christians indeed. And the more confirmed we are in the Christian faith the more firm is our belief of our Lord's second coming, and the more earnest our expectation of it.
IV. Of the encouraging hopes the apostle had of them for the time to come, founded on the power and love of Christ, and the faithfulness of God, Co1 1:8, Co1 1:9. He who had begun a good work in them, and carried it on thus far, would not leave it unfinished. Those that wait for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ will be kept by him, and confirmed to the end; and those that are so will be blameless in the day of Christ: not upon the principle of strict justice, but gracious absolution; not in rigour of law, but from rich and free grace. How desirable is it to be confirmed and kept of Christ for such a purpose as this! How glorious are the hopes of such a privilege, whether for ourselves or others! To be kept by the power of Christ from the power of our own corruption and Satan's temptation, that we may appear without blame in the great day! O glorious expectation, especially when the faithfulness of God comes in to support our hopes! He who hath called us into the fellowship of his Son is faithful, and will do it, Th1 5:24. He who hath brought us into near and dear relation to Christ, into sweet and intimate communion with Christ, is faithful; he may be trusted with our dearest concerns. Those that come at his call shall never be disappointed in their hopes in him. If we approve ourselves faithful to God, we shall never find him unfaithful to us. He will not suffer his faithfulness to fail, Psa 89:33.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–9. Public domain.
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Clement of AlexandriaAD 215
The Stromata Book 2
That God is faithful means that we can trust his self-revelation. His Word reveals him. He is the God who is faithful.
Clement of AlexandriaAD 215
The Stromata Book 2
And when it is said, "God is faithful," it is intimated that He is worthy to be believed when declaring aught. Now His Word declares; and "God" Himself is "faithful." How, then, if to believe is to suppose, do the philosophers think that what proceeds from themselves is sure? For the voluntary assent to a preceding demonstration is not supposition, but it is assent to something sure. Who is more powerful than God? Now unbelief is the feeble negative supposition of one opposed to Him: as incredulity is a condition which admits faith with difficulty.
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
COMMENTARY ON 1 CORINTHIANS 1.3
Believe in Christ always, because you were called for no other purpose than to be one with us in him.
AmbrosiasterAD 384
COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES
Fellowship is brotherhood. Just as Paul declares God’s unfailing faithfulness toward us in this regard, so we ourselves must not be found to be faithless or dishonorable with respect to our adoption. Rather we must remain faithful in it.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 1 Corinthians 2
"God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son." Wonderful! How great a thing saith he here! How vast in the magnitude of the gift which he declares! Into the fellowship of the Only-Begotten have ye been called, and do ye addict yourselves unto men? What can be worse than this wretchedness? And how have ye been called? By the Father. For since "through Him," and "in Him," were phrases which he was constantly employing in regard of the Son, lest men might suppose that he so mentioneth Him as being less, he ascribeth the same to the Father. For not by this one and that one, saith he, but "by the Father" have ye been called; by Him also have ye been "enriched." Again, "ye have been called;" ye did not yourselves approach. But what means, "into the fellowship of His Son?" Hear him declaring this very thing more clearly elsewhere. "If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him; if we die with Him, we shall also live with Him." Then, because it was a great thing which He had said, he adds an argument fraught with unanswerable conviction; for, saith he, "God is faithful," i.e. "true." Now if "true," what things He hath promised He will also perform. And He hath promised that He will make us partakers of His only-begotten Son; for to this end also did He call us. For "His gifts, and the calling of God," are without repentance.
These things, by a kind of divine art he inserts thus early, lest after the vehemence of the reproofs they might fall into despair. For assuredly God's part will ensue, if we be not quite impatient of His rein. As the Jews, being called, would not receive the blessings; but this was no longer of Him that called, but of their lack of sense. For He indeed was willing to give, but they, by refusing to receive, cast themselves away. For, had He called to a painful and toilsome undertaking, not even in that case were they pardonable in making excuse; however, they would have been able to say that so it was: but if the call be unto cleansing, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, and grace, and a free gift, and the good things in store, which eye hath not seen, nor ear heard; and it be God that calls, and calls by Himself; what pardon can they deserve, who come not running to Him? Let no one therefore accuse God; for unbelief cometh not of Him that calleth, but of those who start away from Him.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
First Corinthians 1:9 serves as a foundational declaration of God's unwavering character and His sovereign initiative in the lives of believers. It assures the Corinthian church, and all subsequent readers, that their very inclusion in the Christian faith is a direct result of God's steadfast faithfulness, who has graciously called them into a profound, intimate partnership and shared life with His Son, Jesus Christ, their Lord.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Declaration/Affirmation as a literary device, opening with the direct and unequivocal statement, "God is faithful." This serves as a foundational theological truth upon which the subsequent clauses are built, lending immediate authority and certainty to Paul's message. Following this, the verse utilizes Causality through the phrase "by whom," clearly indicating divine agency as the source of the Corinthians' calling. This grammatical structure emphasizes that their spiritual state and blessings are not self-generated but are the direct result of God's action. Furthermore, the concept of "fellowship" (koinonia) functions as a powerful Metaphor for the deep, intimate union and shared life believers have with Christ. It is not merely a descriptive term but evokes a rich image of partnership, communion, and mutual participation, going beyond a superficial acquaintance to describe a profound spiritual reality.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The declaration "God is faithful" resonates deeply with the Old Testament understanding of Yahweh as the covenant-keeping God, whose steadfast love (Hebrew: hesed) endures forever. This faithfulness is the very ground of our salvation and assurance, ensuring that what God begins, He will complete. The divine calling into "fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord" speaks to the Trinitarian nature of our salvation: the Father calls, the Son is the object and means of our fellowship, and the Spirit enables this communion. This fellowship is not a static state but a dynamic, ongoing relationship that transforms believers into Christ's likeness and empowers them for His service. It is the ultimate expression of God's grace, inviting humanity into the very life of the Godhead.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth that "God is faithful" offers immense comfort and stability in a world marked by change and uncertainty. It reminds us that our spiritual standing and future hope are anchored in the unchanging character of God, not in our fluctuating emotions, performance, or circumstances. This should cultivate a deep sense of gratitude and confidence, freeing us from the anxiety of earning God's favor and empowering us to live boldly in His grace. Understanding that we have been "called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord" transforms our identity and purpose. It means we are not merely individuals on a spiritual journey, but participants in a divine partnership, sharing in Christ's life, mission, and ultimate glory. This rich fellowship should compel us to pursue greater intimacy with Christ, to live in unity with fellow believers who share this same bond, and to reflect His character in all aspects of our lives, knowing that our security rests in His unwavering faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "God is faithful" truly mean in this context?
Answer: In this context, "God is faithful" means that God is utterly trustworthy, reliable, and consistent in His character and promises. It assures the Corinthians, who were struggling with internal divisions and moral issues, that their spiritual foundation rests not on their own merits or stability, but on God's unchanging nature. His faithfulness guarantees that He will complete the good work He began in them, as further emphasized in Philippians 1:6.
What is the significance of being "called" by God?
Answer: Being "called" by God signifies a divine, sovereign initiative. It means that salvation and inclusion in God's family are not human achievements but a gracious act of God Himself. This calling is purposeful, drawing individuals into a redemptive relationship with Him. It highlights God's grace and predestination, as seen in passages like Romans 8:30, where those God calls, He also justifies and glorifies.
How does "fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ" differ from simply believing in Him?
Answer: While believing in Jesus Christ is foundational, "fellowship" (Greek: koinonia) implies a deeper, more intimate, and active participation than mere intellectual assent. It signifies a shared life, a spiritual union, and a partnership with Christ. It means sharing in His purposes, His sufferings, and His glory (Philippians 3:10). It's a dynamic, ongoing communion that transforms the believer's identity and empowers them to live in unity with other believers, as they all share this common bond in Christ.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The faithfulness of God, declared in 1 Corinthians 1:9, finds its ultimate and most profound expression in Jesus Christ. God's unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan and His covenant promises are all "Yes" and "Amen" in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). It is through Christ that God's faithfulness is revealed, not merely as a theoretical attribute, but as a living, saving reality. The divine "calling" is specifically "unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord," indicating that Christ is both the object and the means of this profound communion. He is the one who reconciles us to God, making such intimate fellowship possible through His atoning sacrifice on the cross (Colossians 1:21-22). Furthermore, it is through the indwelling Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Christ, that believers are truly united with Him, enabling them to "abide in him" and bear fruit (John 15:4-5). Thus, Christ is not only the faithful one who perfectly reflects the Father's faithfulness, but also the very essence of the fellowship into which we are called, granting us access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18) and securing our ultimate hope in Him.