1 Corinthians 4:15

For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

For {G1063} though {G1437} ye have {G2192} ten thousand {G3463} instructors {G3807} in {G1722} Christ {G5547}, yet {G235} have ye not {G3756} many {G4183} fathers {G3962}: for {G1063} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424} I {G1473} have begotten {G1080} you {G5209} through {G1223} the gospel {G2098}.

For even if you have ten thousand trainers in connection with the Messiah, you do not have many fathers; for in connection with the Messiah Yeshua it was I who became your father by means of the Good News.

Even if you have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.

For though ye have ten thousand tutors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I begat you through the gospel.

Commentary

Context of 1 Corinthians 4:15

In 1 Corinthians chapter 4, Paul continues to address the divisions and spiritual immaturity within the Corinthian church. He defends his apostolic ministry and the apostles' suffering for Christ, contrasting their humble and often difficult circumstances with the Corinthians' perceived spiritual prosperity. This verse serves as a powerful assertion of Paul's unique relationship with the believers in Corinth, distinguishing himself from other teachers who may have come after him.

Key Themes

  • Spiritual Paternity: Paul emphasizes his role as the spiritual father of the Corinthian believers, a relationship far deeper and more foundational than that of a mere instructor. He highlights that while many can teach, few have been instrumental in their spiritual birth.
  • The Power of the Gospel: The phrase "I have begotten you through the gospel" underscores that spiritual life and regeneration come directly through the message of Jesus Christ. It is the gospel that brings new life, not human wisdom or charisma. This echoes the power of the gospel as the power of God unto salvation.
  • Distinction Between Instructors and Fathers: Paul draws a clear line between those who merely provide instruction or guidance (paidagogous in Greek, often a tutor or disciplinarian) and a spiritual father who imparts life and foundational identity. Instructors are numerous, but true spiritual fathers are rare and hold a unique, life-giving bond.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "instructors" is paidagogos (παιδαγωγός). In ancient Greco-Roman society, a paidagogos was typically a trusted slave responsible for escorting a child to school, overseeing their discipline, and training them in manners. This role was important but temporary and did not involve the deep, life-giving bond of a father (pater, πατέρας). Paul's use of "begotten" (ἐγέννησα - egennēsa), derived from the verb gennaō, strongly conveys the idea of giving birth or bringing into existence, emphasizing his role in their spiritual regeneration.

Related Scriptures

Paul's assertion of having "begotten" them through the gospel aligns with the concept of being "born again" as taught by Jesus in John 3:3. His foundational work in Corinth is also described in 1 Corinthians 3:10, where he speaks of himself as a wise masterbuilder laying the foundation. This fatherly concern for their spiritual formation is also evident in Galatians 4:19, where he describes himself as travailing in birth again for them.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers to recognize and value those who have been instrumental in their spiritual birth and foundational growth. It reminds us that while many can offer teaching, true spiritual fatherhood (or motherhood) involves deep investment, nurturing, and a life-giving connection to the gospel. It also highlights the transformative power of the gospel itself, which is the ultimate means by which individuals are brought into a new spiritual life. For those involved in ministry, it serves as a call to move beyond mere instruction to cultivate genuine, life-imparting relationships with those they serve.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Galatians 4:19

    ¶ My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

  • 1 Corinthians 3:10

    According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:23

    And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you].

  • 1 Corinthians 9:14

    Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

  • 1 Peter 1:23

    Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

  • Philemon 1:19

    I Paul have written [it] with mine own hand, I will repay [it]: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

  • Philemon 1:10

    I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
← Back