1 Corinthians 3:21

KJV

¶ Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G5620} let {G2744} no man {G3367} glory {G2744} in {G1722} men {G444}. For {G1063} all things {G3956} are {G2076} yours {G5216};

Complete Jewish Bible

So let no one boast about human beings, for all things are yours —

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, stop boasting in men. All things are yours,

American Standard Version

Wherefore let no one glory in men. For all things are yours;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul's declaration in 1 Corinthians 3:21 serves as a profound capstone to his argument against spiritual immaturity and divisive factions within the Corinthian church. It masterfully redirects the believers' focus from human leaders and earthly wisdom to their immeasurable spiritual inheritance in Christ, challenging them to grasp the true breadth of their divine wealth and identity as co-heirs with Christ, thereby undermining any basis for sectarian pride or carnal boasting.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a significant section of Paul's letter where he addresses the severe problem of division and sectarianism within the Corinthian church. From the outset of the epistle, Paul confronts the fact that believers are aligning themselves with different spiritual leaders, proclaiming, "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas" ([1 Corinthians 1:12](/1_corinthians/1-12 "1 Corinthians 1:12 - Divisions in the Church")). In [1 Corinthians 3](/1_corinthians/3 "1 Corinthians 3 - Paul Addresses Divisions"), Paul uses agricultural and architectural metaphors to explain that he and Apollos are merely co-laborers with God, planting and watering, while God is the one who gives the growth. He emphasizes that they are "God's fellowworkers" and the Corinthians are "God's husbandry, ye are God's building" ([1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")). The preceding verses, [1 Corinthians 3:10-15](/1_corinthians/3-10-15 "1 Corinthians 3:10-15 - Building on the Foundation"), describe the testing of one's work built upon the foundation of Christ, and [1 Corinthians 3:16-17](/1_corinthians/3-16-17 "1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - You Are God's Temple") warns against destroying God's temple (the church). Paul then directly challenges their worldly wisdom in [1 Corinthians 3:18-20](/1_corinthians/3-18-20 "1 Corinthians 3:18-20 - Worldly Wisdom is Foolishness"), setting the stage for the climactic declaration of [1 Corinthians 3:21](/1_corinthians/3-21 "1 Corinthians 3:21 - All Things Are Yours").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub known for its wealth, trade, and diverse philosophical schools. Greek culture placed a high value on rhetoric, wisdom, and charismatic speakers. It was common for people to follow particular philosophers or teachers, forming schools or factions around them. This cultural tendency spilled over into the church, where believers, still influenced by their former pagan or philosophical backgrounds, began to elevate human leaders and their particular styles or doctrines above the unity of Christ. This created a climate of spiritual pride, competition, and division, as believers boasted in their chosen spiritual "guru." Paul's letter directly confronts this syncretism, reminding them that their identity and allegiance are solely in Christ, not in any human personality or system of thought.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Corinthians. Firstly, the theme of **Unity in the Body of Christ** is paramount, as Paul consistently combats the factions and divisions that plague the Corinthian church, urging them towards a unified identity in Christ (e.g., [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Call for Unity")). Secondly, the theme of **True Wisdom vs. Worldly Wisdom** is central; Paul contrasts the "wisdom of God" revealed in the cross with the "wisdom of this world," which is foolishness to God ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God")). Boasting in men is a manifestation of worldly wisdom. Thirdly, the theme of **Spiritual Maturity vs. Carnality** is addressed, as Paul labels the Corinthians "carnal" because of their divisions and inability to receive deeper spiritual truths ([1 Corinthians 3:1-3](/1_corinthians/3-1-3 "1 Corinthians 3:1-3 - Carnal Christians")). Finally, the theme of the **Believer's Identity and Inheritance in Christ** culminates here, as Paul reveals the astonishing truth that "all things are yours," a truth that should eradicate any basis for human boasting and foster profound gratitude and unity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **glory (Greek, _kaucháomai'_):** This verb means "to boast, to take pride in, or to exult." In the New Testament, particularly in Paul's writings, it often carries a negative connotation when directed towards human achievements, wisdom, or status, contrasting with the only legitimate object of boasting: God Himself. Paul frequently uses this term to highlight the futility of human pride and to redirect praise to where it truly belongs.
* **men (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** This term refers to a human being, encompassing both male and female. In this context, it emphasizes the finite, fallible, and temporary nature of human beings, including spiritual leaders. Paul uses it to underscore the folly of placing ultimate trust, allegiance, or pride in any human figure, no matter how gifted or influential.
* **all things (Greek, _pâs'_):** This word signifies "all, every, the whole." Its comprehensive nature in this verse is crucial, indicating an absolute and limitless scope. When Paul declares "all things are yours," he is asserting that every aspect of existence—including leaders, life, death, the present, and the future—is ultimately purposed for the benefit and spiritual enrichment of the believer, under God's sovereign plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore let no man glory in men."**: This is a direct, imperative command, serving as the logical conclusion ("Therefore," _hṓste_) to Paul's preceding arguments against division and carnal thinking. The phrase "let no man glory" (literally, "let no one boast") is a strong prohibition against placing pride, trust, or ultimate allegiance in human beings, whether they are spiritual leaders like Paul, Apollos, or Cephas, or any other human figure. It challenges the Corinthian tendency to form factions based on human personalities, reminding them that such boasting is misplaced and undermines the unity of the body of Christ.
* **"For all things are yours;"**: This declaration introduces the profound theological reason ("For," _gár_) why boasting in men is illogical and unnecessary. It reveals the astonishing truth of the believer's inheritance in Christ. The phrase "all things" is deliberately comprehensive, encompassing not just spiritual gifts or leaders, but literally everything in creation and providence. Paul immediately elaborates on this in the subsequent verses ([1 Corinthians 3:22-23](/1_corinthians/3-22-23 "1 Corinthians 3:22-23 - All Things Belong to You")), listing a vast array of realities that belong to the believer. This statement asserts that believers, as those united with Christ, are heirs of an immeasurable spiritual wealth, making any boasting in limited human figures utterly insignificant.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several effective literary devices in this concise verse. The opening "Therefore" (Greek: _hṓste_) functions as a **Logical Connector**, signaling that this verse is the inevitable conclusion drawn from his preceding arguments against division and worldly wisdom. The command "let no man glory in men" is a powerful **Prohibition**, directly addressing and correcting the problematic behavior of the Corinthian church. The structure of the verse itself, moving from a negative command to a positive, expansive declaration, exhibits **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, highlighting the folly of human-centered pride against the backdrop of God's boundless provision. Finally, the phrase "all things are yours" is a profound **Hyperbole** or **Overstatement** used for emphasis, which Paul then immediately clarifies and expands upon in the following verses, demonstrating the vastness of the believer's inheritance. It also functions as a powerful **Affirmation** of the believer's status and privilege in Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse encapsulates a pivotal theological truth: the believer's immense spiritual inheritance in Christ, which renders all human boasting and factionalism utterly baseless. By declaring that "all things are yours," Paul elevates the identity of the believer from a mere follower of a human leader to a co-heir with Christ, possessing an unshakeable and comprehensive wealth that transcends any earthly possession or human wisdom. This truth underscores the radical shift in status brought about by redemption, where believers are no longer slaves to sin or human opinion but are children of God, entrusted with the vast resources of His kingdom. It reorients the church's perspective from internal squabbles and carnal pride to the glorious reality of their shared, abundant life in God.

* [Romans 8:32](/romans/8-32 "Romans 8:32 - God Gives All Things Freely"): "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"
* [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed with All Spiritual Blessings"): "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:"
* [Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Complete in Christ"): "And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 3:21 challenges us to deeply examine the objects of our pride and allegiance. In a world that constantly encourages us to boast in achievements, affiliations, or influential figures, Paul's command "let no man glory in men" remains profoundly relevant. It calls us to a radical humility, recognizing that true worth and security come not from human approval or worldly success, but from our identity as God's children. This verse invites us to shift our focus from what we lack or what others possess, to the immeasurable spiritual wealth that is already ours in Christ. Embracing the truth that "all things are yours" should cultivate a spirit of contentment, gratitude, and generosity. It liberates us from the need to compete or compare, fostering genuine unity within the body of Christ, as we recognize that every gift, every leader, and every circumstance is ultimately for our collective good and God's glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be subtly "glorying in men" today, whether in spiritual leaders, cultural figures, or even myself?**
* **How does understanding that "all things are yours" change my perspective on my current circumstances, both good and challenging?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for my spiritual inheritance in Christ, rather than focusing on worldly desires?**
* **How can the truth of this verse foster greater unity and diminish division within my local church or Christian community?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "glory in men"?**

Answer: When Paul says "glory in men," he is condemning the practice of boasting in, exalting, or placing ultimate trust and allegiance in human beings, whether they are spiritual leaders, philosophers, or any other influential figures. In the Corinthian context, believers were forming factions, saying, "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," thereby elevating human personalities above Christ and causing division within the church. Paul views this as a sign of spiritual immaturity and a misunderstanding of God's true wisdom, which is foolishness to the world ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God")). True boasting, according to Paul, should only be in the Lord ([1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boast in the Lord")).

**What does "For all things are yours" truly encompass?**

Answer: The phrase "For all things are yours" is a sweeping declaration of the believer's comprehensive inheritance in Christ. Paul immediately clarifies this in the very next verses, [1 Corinthians 3:22-23](/1_corinthians/3-22-23 "1 Corinthians 3:22-23 - All Things Belong to You"), where he lists specific examples: "Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; and ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's." This means that every spiritual leader, every circumstance (life and death), every aspect of the created world, and every moment in time (present and future) is ultimately purposed by God for the benefit and spiritual growth of His children. It signifies that believers, as co-heirs with Christ, have an astounding spiritual wealth and security, far surpassing anything the world can offer.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Corinthians 3:21 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ. The command "let no man glory in men" is a direct call to shift our ultimate allegiance and boasting from finite human beings to the infinite and perfect person of Jesus Christ. It is only in Christ that we find the true foundation upon which all things are built ([1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Jesus Christ is the Foundation")). The astounding declaration "For all things are yours" is made possible exclusively through our union with Christ. As Paul articulates in [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ is Creator and Sustainer"), "by him were all things created... and by him all things consist." Therefore, when we are "in Christ," we are connected to the very source and sustainer of all creation. Our inheritance is not merely a collection of blessings, but rather a participation in Christ's own inheritance as the Son of God ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")). Because we "are Christ's" ([1 Corinthians 3:23](/1_corinthians/3-23 "1 Corinthians 3:23 - You Are Christ's")), and Christ is God's, we are brought into the very life and purpose of the Triune God. Every spiritual gift, every ministry, and every circumstance serves the purpose of conforming us to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:28-29](/romans/8-28-29 "Romans 8:28-29 - All Things Work Together for Good")), demonstrating that in Christ, we truly "have all things" and are complete in Him ([Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Complete in Christ")).

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

Romans 8:32

He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

1 Corinthians 4:6

And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and [to] Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think [of men] above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Jeremiah 9:23

¶ Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches:

Jeremiah 9:24

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD.

Revelation 21:7

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

1 Corinthians 3:4

For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I [am] of Apollos; are ye not carnal?