1 Corinthians 4:6

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} these things {G5023}, brethren {G80}, I have in a figure transferred {G3345} to {G1519} myself {G1683} and {G2532} to Apollos {G625} for {G1223} your sakes {G5209}; that {G2443} ye might learn {G3129} in {G1722} us {G2254} not {G3361} to think {G5426} of men above {G5228} that {G2443} which {G3739} is written {G1125}, that no {G3363} one {G1520} of you be puffed up {G5448} for {G5228} one {G1520} against {G2596} another {G2087}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now in what I have said here, brothers, I have used myself and Apollos as examples to teach you not to go beyond what the Tanakh says, proudly taking the side of one leader against another.

Berean Standard Bible

Brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us not to go beyond what is written. Then you will not take pride in one man over another.

American Standard Version

Now these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that in us ye might learn not to go beyond the things which are written; that no one of you be puffed up for the one against the other.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 4:6, Paul explains to the Corinthian church that he has used himself and Apollos as illustrative examples to teach them a crucial principle: they should not elevate human leaders beyond what is prescribed by Scripture. His aim is to curb the pride and factionalism that had emerged within the community, where believers were boasting about their allegiance to particular spiritual teachers, leading to division and arrogance against one another instead of unity in Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a pivotal summary and application of Paul's preceding arguments in 1 Corinthians. Chapters 1-3 address the severe problem of divisions within the Corinthian church, which were largely based on loyalty to different Christian leaders, such as Paul, Apollos, and Cephas ([1 Corinthians 1:12](/1_corinthians/1-12 "1 Corinthians 1:12 - Divisions in the Church")). Paul has consistently argued that these leaders are merely servants through whom the Corinthians came to faith, with God alone being the one who gives the growth ([1 Corinthians 3:5-7](/1_corinthians/3-5-7 "1 Corinthians 3:5-7 - God Gives the Growth")). He portrays himself and Apollos not as rival figures, but as co-laborers for God, each building on the one foundation, which is Christ Jesus ([1 Corinthians 3:9-11](/1_corinthians/3-9-11 "1 Corinthians 3:9-11 - Co-laborers with God")). Thus, 1 Corinthians 4:6 directly applies these principles by stating that Paul's discussion of himself and Apollos is a "figure" or illustration, intended to teach the Corinthians a broader lesson about humility and adherence to scriptural truth in their assessment of all spiritual authority.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub known for its wealth, intellectualism, and diverse religious practices. Its culture often emphasized rhetoric, philosophy, and the prestige of human teachers or patrons. This societal value system likely influenced the Corinthian believers, leading them to apply secular standards of admiration and loyalty to their spiritual leaders. They were prone to forming cliques around charismatic figures, much like philosophical schools would gather around their chosen master. This tendency to boast in human wisdom and human leaders stood in stark contrast to the gospel message, which emphasizes humility, the foolishness of God's wisdom, and the centrality of Christ crucified ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God")). Paul's admonition to "not think of men above that which is written" directly challenges this cultural inclination to elevate human personalities and intellectual prowess over divine revelation and humble service.

* **Key Themes:** The verse strongly reinforces several major themes woven throughout 1 Corinthians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Christian Unity and the Rejection of Factionalism**. Paul's primary concern in the early chapters is to heal the divisions within the church ([1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Paul's Appeal for Unity")), and this verse provides a practical means to achieve it by redirecting focus from human leaders to divine principles. Secondly, it highlights the **Authority and Sufficiency of Scripture**. The phrase "that which is written" emphasizes that God's revealed Word is the ultimate standard for belief and conduct, superseding human opinions or charismatic appeal. This theme is foundational to Paul's entire argument for sound doctrine and practice. Thirdly, the verse addresses the pervasive problem of **Pride vs. Humility**. The warning against being "puffed up" speaks directly to the arrogance that fueled the Corinthian divisions, contrasting it with the humble service exemplified by Christ ([Philippians 2:3-8](/philippians/2-3-8 "Philippians 2:3-8 - Christ's Humility")). Finally, it clarifies the **Proper Role of Spiritual Leaders**, presenting them as servants and stewards of God's mysteries, accountable to God, rather than figures to be idolized or used as banners for partisan loyalty ([1 Corinthians 4:1-2](/1_corinthians/4-1-2 "1 Corinthians 4:1-2 - Stewards of God's Mysteries")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **transferred (Greek, _metaschēmatízō'_):** From G3345, meaning "to transfigure or disguise; figuratively, to apply (by accommodation)." Paul uses this term to explain that his discussion of himself and Apollos is not merely about their personal ministries but is an illustrative device. He is "transferring" or "applying by accommodation" a general principle to their specific situation, using himself and Apollos as concrete examples for the Corinthians to learn from, rather than making it solely about their individual merits or rivalries.
* **written (Greek, _gráphō'_):** From G1125, a primary verb meaning "to 'grave,' especially to write; figuratively, to describe." This refers to the Old Testament Scriptures, which were the authoritative "writings" for the early church. Paul is asserting that their understanding and evaluation of spiritual matters, including leadership, must be grounded in and limited by the revealed Word of God, not human speculation, tradition, or personal preference. This phrase underscores the supreme authority of Scripture.
* **puffed up (Greek, _physióō'_):** From G5448, meaning "to inflate, i.e. (figuratively) make proud (haughty)." This vivid metaphor describes the spiritual arrogance and self-importance that had taken root in the Corinthian church. It implies an empty, swollen pride, like a balloon that is full of air but lacks substance. This "puffing up" was occurring "for one against another," indicating that their pride manifested in partisan boasting and contempt for those who followed different leaders, leading to disunity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and [to] Apollos for your sakes;":** Paul clarifies his rhetorical strategy. "These things" refers to his previous arguments about leadership, wisdom, and spiritual gifts. By "transferring" them "in a figure" (or symbolically/figuratively) to himself and Apollos, Paul uses their well-known ministries as object lessons. The purpose is "for your sakes," meaning for the benefit and instruction of the Corinthian believers, not to boast about himself or Apollos, nor to legitimize their factions.
* **"that ye might learn in us not to think [of men] above that which is written,":** The direct purpose of Paul's illustration is didactic. The Corinthians are to "learn in us" (i.e., by observing Paul and Apollos's example and Paul's teaching about them) a critical principle: "not to think of men above that which is written." This is a foundational command for how believers should evaluate leaders and spiritual matters. "That which is written" refers to the Old Testament Scriptures, implying that all human wisdom, authority, and ministry must be judged by and remain subservient to God's revealed Word. No human leader, no matter how gifted or influential, should be elevated beyond what Scripture permits or teaches.
* **"that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.":** This clause states the ultimate desired outcome: to prevent arrogance and division. The phrase "puffed up" vividly describes the inflated pride and self-importance that characterized the Corinthian factions. This pride led them to boast "for one against another," meaning they were taking sides, elevating their preferred leader, and looking down on those who followed others. Paul's instruction aims to dismantle this divisive pride and foster humility and unity centered on Christ and His Word.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is **Metaphor** and **Figurative Language**, specifically in the phrase "in a figure transferred" (Greek: _metaschēmatízō_). This indicates that Paul is not speaking literally about himself and Apollos as the sole subjects of the problem, but using them as a **Synecdoche** or **Illustration** to represent all leaders and the broader principle of how the Corinthians should view spiritual authority. The term "puffed up" (Greek: _physióō_) is a powerful **Metaphor** for spiritual arrogance, likening it to an empty, inflated object, vividly conveying the hollowness and destructive nature of pride. The verse also functions as an **Admonition** or **Exhortation**, a direct warning and instruction to the Corinthian church to correct their behavior and thinking.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound statement on the authority of Scripture and the nature of Christian leadership and community. It underscores the theological truth that all human authority, including that of spiritual leaders, is subordinate to the revealed Word of God. The church's foundation is Christ, not charismatic personalities, and its unity is maintained by adherence to divine truth, not by partisan loyalties. The "puffed up" attitude directly contradicts the humility and self-sacrificial love that should characterize Christ's followers, revealing a deep spiritual immaturity that prioritizes human glory over God's.

* [Romans 12:3](/romans/12-3 "Romans 12:3 - Thinking Soberly")
* [Philippians 2:3](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3 - Humility and Unity")
* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 4:6 serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of personality cults and the elevation of human wisdom above divine revelation within the church. In an age saturated with social media and charismatic personalities, the temptation to pledge ultimate allegiance to a particular pastor, teacher, or ministry brand remains strong. This verse calls us to constantly re-evaluate our loyalties, ensuring that our ultimate standard for truth and conduct is "that which is written"—God's infallible Word. It challenges us to appreciate and learn from gifted leaders, but always with a discerning eye, measuring their teaching and example against the plumb line of Scripture. True spiritual maturity is marked by humility, unity, and a steadfast devotion to Christ and His Word, rather than by prideful boasting in human associations. When we prioritize God's Word, we dismantle the very foundations of division and foster a community where Christ alone is exalted.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to "think of men above that which is written" in my own spiritual walk or within my church community?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper reliance on Scripture as my ultimate authority, rather than on human opinions or traditions?**
* **What practical steps can I take to promote humility and unity within my Christian community, resisting the urge to be "puffed up" for one against another?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos"?**

Answer: Paul is employing a rhetorical device, using himself and Apollos as concrete, well-known examples to illustrate a broader, more general principle. He's not saying that only he and Apollos are the problem, but that the Corinthians' behavior toward them exemplifies the larger issue of elevating human leaders beyond what is appropriate and scriptural. This allows him to teach a sensitive lesson without directly accusing every individual, making the principle more universally applicable to any leader or follower. It's a way of saying, "I'm using us as a case study for *your* benefit."

**Why is it so important "not to think of men above that which is written"?**

Answer: This phrase underscores the supreme authority of God's Word. To "think of men above that which is written" means to prioritize human wisdom, charisma, or opinion over the clear teachings of Scripture. This leads to spiritual error, pride, and division, as seen in the Corinthian church. When human leaders or their followers elevate themselves or their interpretations beyond the boundaries of God's revealed truth, they usurp God's authority and create factions based on human allegiance rather than divine truth. The Bible, "that which is written," is the ultimate standard for faith and practice ([2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
This verse, while addressing the specific problem of factionalism in Corinth, points profoundly to the centrality of Christ. The warning "not to think of men above that which is written" implicitly directs believers to the One who is the living Word, the ultimate fulfillment of all that is written ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")). The Old Testament Scriptures, to which "that which is written" refers, consistently point forward to Christ and His redemptive work ([Luke 24:44](/luke/24-44 "Luke 24:44 - The Law, Prophets, and Psalms point to Christ")). When Paul admonishes the Corinthians not to be "puffed up" for one leader against another, he is calling them away from human-centered pride and towards the humble, unifying Lordship of Jesus Christ, who alone is the head of the church ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ is Head of the Church")). The true measure of any leader's ministry, and indeed any believer's life, is their faithfulness to Christ and His gospel, not their personal following or rhetorical skill. The unity Paul seeks is found not in allegiance to Paul or Apollos, but in the one body of Christ, where all are united in Him ([Ephesians 4:4-6](/ephesians/4-4-6 "Ephesians 4:4-6 - One Body, One Spirit, One Hope")). Thus, this verse ultimately calls the church to humble itself under the authority of God's written Word, which testifies to the preeminence of Christ, preventing human pride from obscuring His glory.

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

2 Corinthians 11:4

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him].

2 Corinthians 12:19

Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but [we do] all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.

2 Corinthians 12:6

For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but [now] I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me [to be], or [that] he heareth of me.

Colossians 2:18

Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

Romans 12:3

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

1 Thessalonians 1:5

For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

John 3:26

And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all [men] come to him.