1 Corinthians 14:20

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Brethren {G80}, be {G1096} not {G3361} children {G3813} in understanding {G5424}: howbeit {G235} in malice {G2549} be ye children {G3515}, but {G1161} in understanding {G5424} be {G1096} men {G5046}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Brothers, don’t be children in your thinking. In evil, be like infants; but in your thinking, be grown-up.

Berean Standard Bible

Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.

American Standard Version

Brethren, be not children in mind: yet in malice be ye babes, but in mind be men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 14:20, issues a poignant call for spiritual maturity within the Corinthian church, urging believers to move beyond childishness in their understanding of spiritual matters, particularly concerning the proper exercise of spiritual gifts. While advocating for intellectual and spiritual growth to attain the discernment of mature adults, Paul simultaneously exhorts them to maintain a childlike innocence and purity regarding malice and evil, thereby presenting a nuanced and challenging vision of Christian character that combines profound wisdom with moral blamelessness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's extensive discourse on spiritual gifts in [1 Corinthians chapters 12-14](/1-corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12-14 - Spiritual Gifts and Orderly Worship"), specifically addressing the chaotic and self-serving misuse of tongues and prophecy in the Corinthian church's worship gatherings. Chapters 12 and 13 lay the theological foundation for spiritual gifts, emphasizing unity in diversity and the supremacy of love as the "more excellent way." Chapter 14 then provides practical instructions for the orderly and edifying exercise of these gifts. Paul's immediate concern before this verse is the Corinthians' overemphasis on tongues, which, without interpretation, failed to edify the church, leading him to declare that prophecy is superior because it builds up the community ([1 Corinthians 14:1-19](/1-corinthians/14-1-19 "1 Corinthians 14:1-19 - The Superiority of Prophecy")). In [1 Corinthians 14:20](/1-corinthians/14-20 "1 Corinthians 14:20 - A Call to Maturity"), Paul shifts from specific regulations to a broader appeal for a mature mindset, implying that their disorderly conduct stemmed from spiritual immaturity. He challenges their misguided pursuit of showy gifts, which betrayed a lack of true understanding regarding God's purposes for the church.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, known for its wealth, diverse population, and notorious immorality. Its culture often valued rhetorical skill, public display, and individual prominence. This environment likely influenced the Corinthian believers, leading some to prioritize ostentatious spiritual gifts, like uninterpreted tongues, as a sign of spiritual status or power, rather than focusing on the edification of the community. The church itself was plagued by various issues, including divisions ([1 Corinthians 1:10-17](/1-corinthians/1-10-17 "1 Corinthians 1:10-17 - Divisions in the Church")), immorality ([1 Corinthians 5:1-13](/1-corinthians/5-1-13 "1 Corinthians 5:1-13 - Sexual Immorality in the Church")), and legal disputes ([1 Corinthians 6:1-11](/1-corinthians/6-1-11 "1 Corinthians 6:1-11 - Lawsuits Among Believers")). Against this backdrop, Paul's call for maturity in understanding and innocence in malice was a direct challenge to their worldly values and a corrective to their spiritual immaturity, urging them to align their practices with the character of Christ and the purpose of the church.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout Paul's letter to the Corinthians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Spiritual Maturity vs. Childishness**, urging believers to grow beyond an immature, self-centered approach to faith and practice, particularly concerning the use of spiritual gifts. Paul implies that their disorderly conduct and competitive spirit were symptoms of spiritual infancy, contrasting it with the sound judgment and discernment characteristic of mature believers. Secondly, it introduces the nuanced theme of **Innocence in Malice**, advocating for a moral purity that is untainted by wickedness, envy, or destructive motives, akin to the blamelessness of a child. This is not ignorance, but a deliberate abstention from participating in or being corrupted by evil. Finally, the verse reinforces the overarching theme of **Pursuit of Wisdom and Discernment**, emphasizing the importance of developing a mature intellect and spiritual understanding. This aligns with Paul's broader teaching that true spiritual growth is not merely about accumulating knowledge but about applying spiritual truths with wisdom and sound judgment for the edification of the body of Christ, a principle beautifully articulated in [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Superiority of Love"), where love is presented as the hallmark of true spiritual maturity and the guiding principle for all gift usage.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **children (Greek, _paidíon'_):** This neuter diminutive form of *pais* refers to a "childling," an infant, or a half-grown boy or girl. Figuratively, as used here, it denotes an immature Christian. Paul uses this term to highlight the Corinthians' lack of developed reasoning and discernment in spiritual matters, implying a need for growth beyond spiritual infancy.
* **malice (Greek, _kakía'_):** Derived from *kakos* (bad), this word signifies "badness," encompassing depravity, malignity, wickedness, or ill-will. In this context, it refers to moral evil, harmful intent, or the active desire to do harm. Paul's instruction to be "children in malice" means to be innocent, inexperienced, and unpracticed in such wickedness, akin to a child's lack of understanding or capacity for profound evil.
* **understanding (Greek, _phrḗn'_):** This term, likely from an obsolete verb meaning "to rein in or curb," refers to the midrif, but figuratively and by implication, it denotes the feelings, sensitive nature, or, more commonly, the mind or cognitive faculties. Here, it specifically refers to the faculty of practical understanding, sound judgment, and discernment. Paul urges them to develop mature, adult-like reasoning and judgment in their spiritual walk.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Brethren, be not children in understanding:"** Paul addresses the Corinthian believers as "brethren" (adelphoi), a term of endearment and shared identity, yet immediately follows with a sharp rebuke. He commands them not to be "children" (paidía) in their "understanding" (phrén). This is a direct challenge to their immaturity, particularly in their discernment regarding spiritual gifts and the proper conduct of worship. Their actions (e.g., chaotic use of tongues) demonstrated a lack of mature judgment about what truly edifies the church.
* **"howbeit in malice be ye children,"** This clause introduces a crucial qualification and a profound paradox. While spiritual maturity is demanded in understanding, Paul instructs them to be "children" (nēpiázō, a different word for child, emphasizing innocence or infancy) when it comes to "malice" (kakía). This means they should be innocent, inexperienced, and unpracticed in evil, wickedness, or ill-will. It's a call to moral purity and blamelessness, to remain untainted by the corrupting influences of sin and destructive intentions.
* **"but in understanding be men."** This final clause reiterates and strengthens the initial command, forming a powerful antithesis. Paul urges them to be "men" (téleios, meaning complete, perfect, or of full age) in their "understanding" (phrén). This is a call to intellectual and spiritual maturity, to develop sound judgment, wisdom, and discernment that can rightly evaluate spiritual truths and guide their conduct within the community. It's a plea for them to grow up and think like mature adults in matters of faith and practice.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [1 Corinthians 14:20](/1-corinthians/14-20 "1 Corinthians 14:20 - A Call to Maturity") to convey his urgent message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, or stark contrast. He sets up a direct opposition between "children in understanding" and "men in understanding," while simultaneously contrasting "malice" with "understanding." This creates a powerful rhetorical tension, highlighting the specific areas where the Corinthians need to grow and where they need to remain innocent. Related to this is **Chiasmus** (ABBA structure), which is subtly present: "not children in understanding" (A - immaturity in intellect), "in malice be ye children" (B - innocence in evil), "but in understanding be men" (A' - maturity in intellect). This structure emphasizes the central paradox and reinforces the two distinct calls to action. Furthermore, Paul uses **Metaphor**, equating "children" and "men" with different stages of spiritual maturity and character. "Children" metaphorically represents immaturity, lack of discernment, and innocence, while "men" represents full spiritual development, sound judgment, and completeness. This metaphorical language makes his instruction vivid and memorable, urging a transformation from spiritual infancy to robust spiritual adulthood.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's exhortation in [1 Corinthians 14:20](/1-corinthians/14-20 "1 Corinthians 14:20 - A Call to Maturity") deeply intertwines with core theological concepts of sanctification, wisdom, and the nature of sin. It underscores that Christian maturity is not merely intellectual ascent but a holistic transformation encompassing both cognitive discernment and moral purity. Believers are called to develop a robust understanding of God's truth, enabling them to rightly discern spiritual matters, apply biblical principles, and contribute constructively to the body of Christ. Simultaneously, they are to cultivate a radical innocence concerning evil, actively resisting the corrupting influence of sin and maintaining a heart free from malice, envy, and destructive intentions. This paradoxical call—to be wise as adults yet innocent as children—reflects a profound understanding of human nature and the divine ideal for spiritual growth, where knowledge is tempered by purity, and discernment is coupled with blamelessness.

* [Ephesians 4:14-15](/ephesians/4-14-15 "Growing Up in Christ"): "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
* [Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Wise as Serpents, Innocent as Doves"): "Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves."
* [Romans 16:19](/romans/16-19 "Wise Unto That Which is Good, Simple Concerning Evil"): "For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 14:20](/1-corinthians/14-20 "1 Corinthians 14:20 - A Call to Maturity") offers a timeless and challenging blueprint for Christian living, urging believers to pursue a balanced and mature spiritual life. In a world saturated with information and complex moral dilemmas, Paul's call to be "men in understanding" is more relevant than ever. It compels us to move beyond superficial faith and emotionalism, diligently seeking to deepen our understanding of God's Word, His character, and His will. This involves critical thinking, theological discernment, and a commitment to applying truth with wisdom in all areas of life—from how we engage with social issues to how we participate in our local church. Simultaneously, the command to be "children in malice" is a radical call to purity of heart and motive. It means actively guarding ourselves against cynicism, bitterness, envy, and destructive intentions. It's a commitment to not merely avoid evil acts, but to remain unpracticed and unfamiliar with the insidious ways of wickedness, striving for a genuine innocence that reflects the heart of Christ. This verse reminds us that true spiritual growth is not about intellectual prowess alone, but about the cultivation of a character that is both profoundly wise and profoundly pure.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life am I demonstrating spiritual childishness rather than maturity in understanding?**
* **How does Paul's call to be "men in understanding" challenge my current approach to learning and applying God's Word?**
* **What does it practically mean for me to be "children in malice" in today's complex and often corrupt world?**
* **How can I cultivate both deep spiritual discernment and genuine moral innocence in my daily interactions and decisions?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "children in understanding" and "men in understanding"?**

Answer: When Paul says "be not children in understanding," he is rebuking the Corinthian believers for their spiritual immaturity, particularly in their discernment regarding the proper use of spiritual gifts and the overall conduct of worship. Their actions, such as speaking in uninterpreted tongues without consideration for others, demonstrated a lack of mature judgment and a self-centered focus, akin to a child's undeveloped reasoning. To be "men in understanding" (using the Greek word *téleios*, meaning "complete" or "of full age") is Paul's exhortation for them to grow into spiritual maturity. This involves developing sound judgment, wisdom, and discernment to rightly understand God's purposes, apply biblical truth, and act in ways that edify the entire community, moving beyond an immature, self-focused perspective to a mature, Christ-centered one.

**How can one be "children in malice" in a world full of evil?**

Answer: Paul's instruction to be "children in malice" (Greek *kakía*, meaning wickedness, depravity, or ill-will) is a profound paradox. It does not mean being naive or ignorant of the existence of evil, but rather being innocent, inexperienced, and unpracticed in it. Just as a young child might not fully grasp or engage in complex forms of wickedness, believers are called to maintain a moral purity and blamelessness. This means actively resisting the temptation to participate in or even entertain evil thoughts, intentions, or actions. It's a call to guard one's heart against bitterness, envy, revenge, and all forms of depravity, striving for a pure and untainted character. This aligns with other biblical teachings, such as Jesus' command to be "wise as serpents, and harmless as doves" in [Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves"), or Paul's exhortation in [Romans 16:19](/romans/16-19 "Wise Unto Good, Simple Concerning Evil") to be "wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The call in [1 Corinthians 14:20](/1-corinthians/14-20 "1 Corinthians 14:20 - A Call to Maturity") finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "Man in understanding," possessing all wisdom and knowledge, for "in him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "In Whom Are Hidden All the Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")). His earthly life was marked by perfect discernment, understanding, and application of God's will, always acting with divine wisdom. Simultaneously, Jesus perfectly exemplified being "children in malice." He was utterly without sin, "tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin" ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Our High Priest Who Was Tempted in All Points, Yet Without Sin")), demonstrating a perfect, untainted innocence concerning evil. Our journey of spiritual maturity is ultimately a process of being conformed to His image, growing "into the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ" ([Ephesians 4:13](/ephesians/4-13 "Attaining to the Fullness of Christ")). As believers, we are called to have "the mind of Christ" ([1 Corinthians 2:16](/1-corinthians/2-16 "Having the Mind of Christ")), which encompasses both His profound understanding and His absolute purity, enabling us to live lives that reflect His perfect balance of wisdom and blamelessness.

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 Corinthians 13:11

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

Romans 16:19

For your obedience is come abroad unto all [men]. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.

1 Peter 2:2

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Matthew 18:3

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Ephesians 4:14

That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Ephesians 4:15

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ:

1 Corinthians 2:6

¶ Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: