1 Corinthians 2:15

But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

But {G1161} he that is spiritual {G4152} judgeth {G350}{G3303} all things {G3956}, yet {G1161} he himself {G846} is judged {G350} of {G5259} no man {G3762}.

But the person who has the Spirit can evaluate everything, while no one is in a position to evaluate him.

The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment.

But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, and he himself is judged of no man.

1 Corinthians 2:15 presents a profound truth about the believer who is guided by the Holy Spirit, contrasting their spiritual understanding with the limitations of worldly wisdom. This verse emphasizes the unique capacity for discernment granted to those indwelt by God's Spirit.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader argument in 1 Corinthians 2 concerning the nature of true wisdom. He has just explained that the "natural man" (or unspiritual person) cannot understand the things of the Spirit of God because they are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14). Paul asserts that his preaching was not based on eloquent words or human wisdom, but on the demonstration of the Spirit's power (1 Corinthians 2:4). This sets the stage for understanding the superior insight available to the spiritual person.

Key Themes

  • Spiritual Discernment: The core message is the spiritual person's ability to "judge all things." This isn't about condemning others, but about evaluating, understanding, and discerning truth from error, good from evil, and God's will from human opinions. This discernment applies to all aspects of life, seen through the lens of divine wisdom.
  • Guidance of the Holy Spirit: The capacity for such discernment is not inherent but is a direct result of being "spiritual," meaning being indwelt and led by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit reveals profound truths that are otherwise hidden (1 Corinthians 2:10).
  • Independence from Worldly Judgment: The spiritual person "is judged of no man." This highlights that their ultimate standard of truth and evaluation comes from God, not from human opinions or worldly standards. Those without the Spirit cannot truly comprehend or accurately assess the spiritual person's motives, actions, or understanding.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word translated "judgeth" in "judgeth all things" is anakrinō (ἀνακρίνω). It means to examine, investigate, scrutinize, or discern. It implies a thorough process of evaluation, not a hasty condemnation. In the context of being "judged of no man," the same word is used, signifying that the world lacks the spiritual capacity to properly examine or evaluate the spiritual person's life and understanding.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 2:15 offers encouragement and a call to cultivate spiritual discernment. It reminds us that:

  • Our understanding of life, truth, and morality should be informed by the Holy Spirit, not solely by popular opinion or secular philosophies.
  • We are equipped by God to evaluate situations, teachings, and choices from a divine perspective. This empowers us to make wise decisions and stand firm in our faith.
  • When facing criticism or misunderstanding from those who do not share our spiritual foundation, we can find comfort knowing that their judgment is limited by their lack of spiritual insight. Our ultimate judge and guide is God alone, through His Spirit.
This verse encourages us to pursue a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to illuminate our minds and guide our understanding in all things.

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.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:21

    Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

  • Proverbs 28:5

    ¶ Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all [things].

  • Hebrews 5:14

    But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, [even] those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

  • 1 John 4:1

    ¶ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:37

    If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.

  • Galatians 6:1

    ¶ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

  • Ephesians 4:13

    Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

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