1 Corinthians 13:9

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

For {G1063} we know {G1097} in {G1537} part {G3313}, and {G2532} we prophesy {G4395} in {G1537} part {G3313}.

For our knowledge is partial, and our prophecy partial;

For we know in part and we prophesy in part,

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part;

1 Corinthians 13:9 (KJV) states, "For we know in part, and we prophesy in part." This verse is a foundational statement within the apostle Paul's profound discourse on the supremacy of love, often referred to as the 'love chapter' of the Bible.

Context

This verse is nestled in the middle of 1 Corinthians chapter 13, where Paul contrasts the temporary nature of spiritual gifts with the eternal endurance of love. The Corinthian church was grappling with issues surrounding the use and perceived importance of various spiritual gifts, leading to divisions and pride. Paul's intent here is to demonstrate that even the most impressive gifts, like knowledge and prophecy, are limited and temporary compared to the enduring virtue of agape love.

Key Themes

  • Incomplete Knowledge: The phrase "we know in part" highlights the finite nature of human understanding, even when divinely inspired. Our current grasp of God's truth, His plans, and the mysteries of the universe is inherently partial and limited in this earthly life.
  • Partial Prophecy: Similarly, "we prophesy in part" signifies that even prophetic utterances, which are divinely inspired declarations, are not exhaustive or fully comprehensive. They reveal aspects of God's will and truth but do not encompass the entirety of divine revelation.
  • Temporary Nature of Gifts: This verse sets the stage for the powerful contrast presented in 1 Corinthians 13:10, where Paul states that when "that which is perfect is come," then that which is in part "shall be done away." It underscores that certain spiritual manifestations are for the present age, serving a purpose until a more complete reality is unveiled.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "in part" translates the Greek ek merous (ἐκ μέρους), meaning "out of a part" or "partially." This emphasizes a fragmented, incomplete, or limited understanding and expression. It's not just that our knowledge is lacking, but that it comes from a piece of the whole, implying that a complete picture exists but is not yet fully revealed to us. The word "know" (ginosko) refers to experiential knowledge, while "prophesy" (propheteuo) means to speak under divine inspiration, often declaring God's will or truth, not solely predicting the future.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 13:9 offers several valuable lessons for believers today:

  • Humility: It encourages humility, reminding us that no matter how much we learn or how gifted we are, our understanding of God and His ways is always incomplete in this life. This should prevent spiritual arrogance and foster a desire for deeper truth.
  • Focus on Love: Since knowledge and prophecy are temporary, our primary focus should be on cultivating enduring virtues, especially love. Love, as Paul explains in the preceding verses, is the more excellent way that never fails.
  • Anticipation: This verse builds anticipation for a future state of full revelation and direct communion with God, as further described in 1 Corinthians 13:12: "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." This provides hope for a complete and perfect understanding in the presence of God.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Colossians 2:2

    That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

  • Colossians 2:3

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

  • Ephesians 3:18

    May be able to comprehend with all saints what [is] the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

  • Ephesians 3:19

    And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:12

    For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:9

    But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

  • 1 Corinthians 8:2

    And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.

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