1 Corinthians 10:15

KJV

¶ I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

KJV (with Strong's)

I speak {G3004} as {G5613} to wise men {G5429}; judge {G2919} ye {G5210} what {G3739} I say {G5346}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I speak to you as sensible people; judge for yourselves what I am saying.

Berean Standard Bible

I speak to reasonable people; judge for yourselves what I say.

American Standard Version

I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul makes a direct and challenging appeal to the Corinthians' spiritual maturity and discerning intellect. He invites them to actively and critically evaluate the weighty arguments he has presented and is about to present, trusting in their God-given capacity for spiritual judgment rather than merely demanding their passive obedience. This verse serves as a pivotal transition, setting the stage for deeper theological explanations concerning Christian conduct, particularly regarding participation in pagan practices and its incompatibility with their identity in Christ and their participation in the Lord's Supper.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a crucial turning point in Paul's extended argument concerning Christian liberty, responsibility, and the dangers of idolatry. Immediately preceding [1 Corinthians 10:15](/1_corinthians/10-15 "1 Corinthians 10:15 - Paul's Appeal to Discernment"), Paul has meticulously laid out a series of sobering historical examples from Israel's wilderness wanderings ([1 Corinthians 10:1-13](/1_corinthians/10-1-13 "1 Corinthians 10:1-13 - Warnings from Israel's History")). He recounts their spiritual privileges (baptism in the cloud and sea, spiritual food and drink) and their subsequent failures (idolatry, sexual immorality, grumbling, testing Christ). These serve as stark warnings, demonstrating that even those with spiritual advantages can fall away through temptation. He concludes this section with the direct and urgent command to [“flee from idolatry”](/1_corinthians/10-14 "1 Corinthians 10:14 - Flee from Idolatry"). Having established the severe consequences of spiritual compromise, Paul now shifts from historical admonition to a direct appeal for the Corinthians to apply spiritual discernment to the specific issue of participating in pagan idol feasts, which he will address in the subsequent verses ([1 Corinthians 10:16-22](/1_corinthians/10-16-22 "1 Corinthians 10:16-22 - The Lord's Supper and Idolatry")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling port city, a major commercial and cultural hub in the Roman Empire. It was renowned for its prosperity, but also for its moral laxity and pervasive idolatry. Pagan temples, such as the temple of Aphrodite, were prominent, and participation in idol feasts was a common social and religious practice. These feasts often involved communal meals, sacrifices, and sometimes immoral activities. For many Corinthians, especially new Gentile converts, navigating their Christian faith within this pagan social fabric posed significant challenges. The question of whether believers could participate in these feasts without compromising their faith was a pressing issue, as it involved social standing, business connections, and cultural norms. Paul's letter addresses the tension between Christian freedom and the need to avoid anything that might defile their worship of God or cause a weaker brother to stumble.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 10:15](/1_corinthians/10-15 "1 Corinthians 10:15 - Paul's Appeal to Discernment") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/1 "1 Corinthians - Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians"). Foremost among these is **Spiritual Discernment**, as Paul explicitly calls upon the Corinthians to "judge" his words, implying they possess the spiritual capacity to understand and apply divine truth. This contrasts sharply with the worldly wisdom that Paul critiques earlier in the letter, emphasizing that true wisdom comes from God ([1 Corinthians 1:18-31](/1_corinthians/1-18-31 "1 Corinthians 1:18-31 - The Wisdom of God and the Foolishness of the World")). Another key theme is **Christian Liberty and Responsibility**, as Paul consistently balances the freedom believers have in Christ with their responsibility to use that freedom in a way that honors God and edifies others, avoiding anything that might lead to sin or compromise ([1 Corinthians 8:9](/1_corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")). Finally, the theme of **Idolatry and Exclusive Worship of God** is central, as Paul is building his case against participation in pagan feasts, asserting the absolute incompatibility of worshipping idols with participating in the Lord's Supper ([1 Corinthians 10:20-21](/1_corinthians/10-20-21 "1 Corinthians 10:20-21 - You Cannot Drink the Cup of the Lord and the Cup of Demons")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **speak (Greek, _légō'_):** Properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., to relate in words, usually of systematic or set discourse. Paul is not merely uttering words but presenting a reasoned, coherent argument that he expects the Corinthians to process thoughtfully. This word implies a deliberate and authoritative communication of truth, inviting careful consideration rather than a casual hearing.
* **wise men (Greek, _phrónimos'_):** Thoughtful, sagacious, or discreet. This term implies a cautious character and practical understanding, distinguishing it from mere intellectual acumen (sophos) or mental acquisition (synetos). Paul is appealing to their spiritual maturity and practical wisdom, the kind that enables them to make discerning choices in real-life situations, particularly concerning their spiritual conduct and associations. He is challenging them to live up to the spiritual insight they should possess as believers.
* **judge (Greek, _krínō'_):** Properly, to distinguish, i.e., to decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, or punish. In this context, it is an invitation for the Corinthians to discern, evaluate, and come to a right conclusion based on the evidence and spiritual principles Paul has laid out. It's an appeal to their faculty of spiritual discernment, expecting them to weigh his arguments carefully and arrive at the same godly conclusion he has reached.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I speak as to wise men;":** Paul sets the tone for his upcoming arguments by appealing directly to the Corinthians' presumed spiritual maturity and capacity for discernment. He is not addressing them as children or those lacking understanding, but as individuals who possess the spiritual insight to grasp profound truths. This is both a compliment and a challenge, implying that they should be able to understand the gravity and logic of his warnings against idolatry and compromise. It suggests that the truth he is about to present is not complex or obscure, but clear enough for those with spiritual wisdom to comprehend.
* **"judge ye what I say.":** This is a direct imperative, a command for them to actively engage their minds and spiritual understanding. The verb "judge" (krínō) here means to discern, evaluate, or decide, rather than to criticize negatively. Paul is inviting them to weigh his words, to test them against spiritual truth, and to come to a sound conclusion. He is confident that if they exercise their spiritual wisdom, they will agree with his assessment regarding the incompatibility of Christian fellowship with pagan idol worship. This phrase underscores the believer's responsibility to actively process and apply divine revelation, rather than passively receiving instruction.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several effective literary devices in this concise verse. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, as he directly addresses his audience, "wise men," creating a personal and challenging tone. This direct address is not merely a statement but a **Rhetorical Appeal**, specifically an appeal to **Ethos**, where Paul evokes the Corinthians' presumed character and spiritual standing ("wise men") to encourage them to accept his subsequent arguments. By framing his discourse in this manner, he subtly places the responsibility on them to demonstrate the wisdom he attributes to them. The phrase "judge ye what I say" functions as an **Imperative**, a direct command that, while seemingly giving them autonomy, actually guides them towards the conclusion Paul desires, trusting that their spiritual wisdom, if properly exercised, will lead them to agree with him. This also contains an element of **Irony**, as some Corinthians were acting unwisely, yet Paul addresses them as "wise," challenging them to live up to that designation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully underscores the New Testament emphasis on the believer's responsibility to cultivate and exercise spiritual discernment. Paul does not merely dictate truth but invites his audience to engage with it intellectually and spiritually, implying that genuine faith is not blind but thoughtfully informed. This call to "judge" reflects the expectation that believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, possess the capacity to understand and apply God's truth to complex situations, particularly those involving ethical and theological compromise. It highlights the Christian's duty to evaluate teachings and practices against the standard of God's revealed Word, ensuring that their conduct aligns with their confession of Christ. This active engagement with truth is crucial for spiritual maturity and for safeguarding against deception and spiritual compromise in a world filled with competing ideologies.

* [Hebrews 5:14](/hebrews/5-14 "Hebrews 5:14 - Discernment of Good and Evil")
* [Philippians 1:9-10](/philippians/1-9-10 "Philippians 1:9-10 - Love Abounding in Knowledge and Discernment")
* [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's appeal in [1 Corinthians 10:15](/1_corinthians/10-15 "1 Corinthians 10:15 - Paul's Appeal to Discernment") resonates deeply with believers today, reminding us that faith is not a passive acceptance but an active, discerning engagement with truth. We are called to be thoughtful, not gullible, and to apply spiritual wisdom to every aspect of our lives. This means diligently studying God's Word, praying for the Holy Spirit's illumination, and seeking to understand the implications of our choices on our walk with Christ and our witness to the world. In an age saturated with information and competing worldviews, the ability to "judge" or discern what aligns with God's truth is more critical than ever. We must not outsource our spiritual responsibility but cultivate a mature faith that can distinguish between good and evil, wisdom and folly, and ultimately, between what truly honors God and what compromises our devotion to Him. Our choices in worship, entertainment, relationships, and even daily habits should be filtered through this lens of spiritual discernment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I being called to exercise greater spiritual discernment?**
* **How does my current engagement with Scripture and prayer contribute to my ability to "judge" spiritual truths?**
* **Am I passively accepting teachings, or am I actively weighing them against God's Word as Paul encourages?**
* **What practical steps can I take to grow in wisdom and discernment, particularly concerning contemporary issues that challenge Christian living?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul address the Corinthians as "wise men" when he has previously rebuked them for their lack of wisdom and divisions?**

Answer: Paul's address to the Corinthians as "wise men" is not necessarily a blanket compliment for their current behavior, but rather a strategic rhetorical move and an appeal to their potential. Throughout [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/1 "1 Corinthians - Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians"), Paul has indeed critiqued their worldly wisdom and divisions ([1 Corinthians 1:18-31](/1_corinthians/1-18-31 "1 Corinthians 1:18-31 - The Wisdom of God and the Foolishness of the World"); [1 Corinthians 3:1-4](/1_corinthians/3-1-4 "1 Corinthians 3:1-4 - Divisions in the Church")). However, in [1 Corinthians 10:15](/1_corinthians/10-15 "1 Corinthians 10:15 - Paul's Appeal to Discernment"), he is appealing to the spiritual wisdom they *should* possess as believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who grants discernment ([1 Corinthians 2:10-16](/1_corinthians/2-10-16 "1 Corinthians 2:10-16 - The Spirit Searches All Things")). By calling them "wise," he challenges them to rise to that standard, to engage their God-given capacity for spiritual judgment, and to apply it to the serious matters he is discussing. It's an invitation to think critically and come to the right conclusion, rather than a concession to their pride or previous failures.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The call to be "wise men" who "judge" what Paul says finds its ultimate fulfillment and foundation in Christ. For the believer, true wisdom is not worldly intellect or human philosophy, but Christ Himself, who is "the power of God, and the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). In Him "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden all Treasures of Wisdom")). Therefore, to "judge" wisely what Paul says is to evaluate it in light of Christ's person, work, and teachings. The Holy Spirit, whom believers receive, is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation ([Ephesians 1:17](/ephesians/1-17 "Ephesians 1:17 - Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation")), enabling us to understand the deep things of God and to discern truth from error. Our capacity to discern and apply truth is not innate but is a gift empowered by our union with Christ and the indwelling Spirit. Thus, Paul's appeal is implicitly a call to live out the wisdom that is found in Christ, allowing His truth to shape our understanding and guide our choices, ensuring that our lives reflect His glory and avoid anything that would compromise our fellowship with Him, the very source of our wisdom and life.

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

1 Thessalonians 5:21

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

1 Corinthians 8:1

¶ Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

Job 34:2

Hear my words, O ye wise [men]; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge.

Job 34:3

For the ear trieth words, as the mouth tasteth meat.

1 Corinthians 14:20

Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.

1 Corinthians 11:13

Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?

1 Corinthians 6:5

I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?