1 Corinthians 8:4

¶ As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol [is] nothing in the world, and that [there is] none other God but one.

As concerning {G4012} therefore {G3767} the eating {G1035} of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols {G1494}, we know {G1492} that {G3754} an idol {G1497} is nothing {G3762} in {G1722} the world {G2889}, and {G2532} that {G3754} there is none {G3762} other {G2087} God {G2316} but {G1508} one {G1520}.

So, as for eating food sacrificed to idols, we “know” that, as you say, “An idol has no real existence in the world, and there is only one God.”

So about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world, and that there is no God but one.

Concerning therefore the eating of things sacrificed to idols, we know that no idol is anything in the world, and that there is no God but one.

1 Corinthians 8:4 (KJV) is a foundational verse in Paul's discussion concerning the eating of meat offered to idols, a significant ethical and theological dilemma faced by the early church in Corinth. Here, Paul asserts the absolute supremacy of the one true God and the utter nullity of pagan idols.

Context

The city of Corinth was a bustling, multi-cultural hub with numerous pagan temples and religious practices. A common issue for early Christians was the consumption of meat that had been offered in sacrifice to idols, often sold in public markets or served at social gatherings. While some believers, strong in their understanding of God's uniqueness, saw no harm in eating such meat, others with a weaker conscience felt it compromised their faith or even participated in idolatry. This chapter, along with 1 Corinthians 10 and Romans 14, delves into the delicate balance between Christian liberty and loving consideration for others, particularly those with a sensitive conscience.

Key Themes

  • Absolute Monotheism: The verse unequivocally declares that "there is none other God but one." This reiterates the core Old Testament teaching of God's unique singularity, as seen in the Shema of Deuteronomy 6:4. For Paul, this is the bedrock truth that nullifies any perceived power of idols.
  • The Nullity of Idols: Paul states that "an idol is nothing in the world." This means idols have no inherent spiritual power or existence; they are mere objects of wood, stone, or metal, representing false deities that do not exist. Their worship is an illusion, not a confrontation with rival powers.
  • Knowledge vs. Love: While not fully developed in this verse, 1 Corinthians 8:4 lays the intellectual groundwork for Paul's argument that follows: knowing idols are nothing is important, but true Christian conduct is ultimately governed by love for one's fellow believers, particularly those who might be led astray by another's actions.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "an idol is nothing" comes from the Greek ouden eidōlon (οὐδὲν εἴδωλον), literally meaning "nothing an idol." This emphasizes the complete non-existence and powerlessness of the idol itself. Similarly, "none other God but one" translates to eis Theos (εἷς Θεός), underscoring the singular, unique nature of the true God, a concept central to both Jewish and Christian theology.

Related Scriptures

This verse directly sets the stage for 1 Corinthians 8:6, where Paul elaborates on the identity of this "one God" as the Father, and "one Lord" as Jesus Christ. The concept of idols being powerless is echoed in Old Testament passages like Psalm 115:4-7 and Isaiah 44:9-20. The broader issue of not causing others to stumble is developed further in 1 Corinthians 8:13 and Romans 14:21.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 8:4 serves as a powerful reminder of God's absolute sovereignty and uniqueness. It liberates us from any fear of false gods, superstitions, or spiritual powers that are not from the one true God. While we may not encounter physical idol worship in the same way, the principle applies to anything that might seek to usurp God's place in our lives – whether it be materialism, career, self, or other earthly pursuits. Understanding that only God is real and powerful should lead us to seek Him first and live with confidence in His ultimate authority.

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.

  • Deuteronomy 4:39

    Know therefore this day, and consider [it] in thine heart, that the LORD he [is] God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: [there is] none else.

  • Isaiah 41:24

    Behold, ye [are] of nothing, and your work of nought: an abomination [is he that] chooseth you.

  • 1 Timothy 2:5

    For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

  • Deuteronomy 6:4

    ¶ Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God [is] one LORD:

  • Ephesians 4:6

    One God and Father of all, who [is] above all, and through all, and in you all.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:19

    What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

  • 1 Corinthians 10:20

    But [I say], that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

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