1 Corinthians 8:3

But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

But {G1161} if any man {G1536} love {G25} God {G2316}, the same {G3778} is known {G1097} of {G5259} him {G846}.

However, if someone loves God, God knows him.

But the one who loves God is known by God.

but if any man loveth God, the same is known by him.

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 8:3 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 8:3: "But if any man love God, the same is known of him."

Context

This verse stands as a profound counterpoint within Paul’s discussion in 1 Corinthians chapter 8 regarding the consumption of meat sacrificed to idols. The Corinthian church faced questions about Christian liberty and conscience. Paul begins by stating, "Knowledge puffeth up, but charity [love] edifieth" (1 Corinthians 8:1). He then challenges those who boast in their knowledge, suggesting that true spiritual understanding is not merely intellectual accumulation but is rooted in a right relationship with God. Verse 3 pivots the focus from human knowledge and its potential for pride to the supreme importance of loving God.

Key Themes

  • Love Over Knowledge: The verse emphasizes that true spiritual standing is not measured by the amount of knowledge one possesses, but by the sincerity of one's love for God. While knowledge can lead to arrogance or division, love is the foundation of genuine spiritual growth and unity, as it "edifieth" (builds up).
  • Divine Recognition and Relationship: To be "known of him" (God) is not merely about God's omniscience (He knows everything). Instead, it signifies a deep, intimate, and approving relationship. It implies that God acknowledges, cares for, and has a personal connection with the individual who loves Him. This divine recognition is far more valuable than human boasting or intellectual superiority.
  • True Piety: This verse points to the heart's disposition as the core of true godliness. It's not about what we know, but about the object of our affection and devotion. A heart that loves God is the mark of a true believer, and such a heart is divinely recognized.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "known of him" uses the Greek word ginōskō (γινώσκω), which means "to know." However, in biblical usage, especially when referring to God's knowledge of individuals, it often conveys more than mere intellectual acquaintance. It implies a deep, personal, and relational knowledge, akin to intimacy and approval. This contrasts sharply with the superficial "knowledge" that "puffs up" mentioned in verse 1. For God to "know" someone in this sense means to acknowledge them as His own, to have a relationship with them, and to approve of them, much like the idea in 2 Timothy 2:19: "The Lord knoweth them that are his."

Related Scriptures

  • The emphasis on love as the greatest commandment is echoed by Jesus in Matthew 22:37: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind."
  • Paul further expounds on the supremacy of love over all spiritual gifts and knowledge in the famous "love chapter," 1 Corinthians 13.
  • The concept of being "known of God" is also found in Galatians 4:9, where Paul writes, "But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God..." reinforcing the idea of God's initiative in the relationship.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder for believers today. Our spiritual value and standing before God are not based on our intellectual achievements, theological acumen, or even our adherence to specific rules, but fundamentally on our genuine love for Him. This love should translate into humility, a desire to build up others, and a willingness to put the well-being of our brothers and sisters above our own liberties, as Paul goes on to explain in the rest of 1 Corinthians 8. Cultivating a deep, authentic love for God is the most important pursuit, for it is through this love that we are truly recognized and embraced by Him.

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.

  • Revelation 3:8

    I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

  • Revelation 3:9

    Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

  • Exodus 33:17

    And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.

  • Nahum 1:7

    The LORD [is] good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

  • 2 Timothy 2:19

    ¶ Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:9

    But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

  • Galatians 4:9

    But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

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