1 Corinthians 8:5

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)

For {G1063} though {G1512}{G2532} there be {G1526} that are called {G3004} gods {G2316}, whether {G1535} in {G1722} heaven {G3772} or {G1535} in {G1909} earth {G1093},(as {G5618} there be {G1526} gods {G2316} many {G4183}, and {G2532} lords {G2962} many {G4183},)

For even if there are so-called “gods,” either in heaven or on earth — as in fact there are “gods” and “lords” galore —

For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many so-called gods and lords),

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or on earth; as there are gods many, and lords many;

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of Paul's extensive discussion in 1 Corinthians chapter 8 regarding the eating of meat sacrificed to idols. The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, home to numerous temples dedicated to various pagan deities. Consequently, meat sold in the market often came from animals offered in idol worship. Some Christians, understanding that "an idol is nothing in the world" (1 Corinthians 8:4), felt they were free to eat such meat. Others, especially those who had recently converted from paganism, had a weaker conscience and feared that eating this meat would be a form of participation in idolatry. Paul addresses this tension, balancing theological truth with the principle of love and concern for a fellow believer's conscience.

Key Themes

  • Polytheism vs. Monotheism: This verse starkly contrasts the prevailing pagan worldview of "gods many, and lords many" with the Christian declaration of one true God. Paul acknowledges the existence of entities called "gods" or "lords" in the pagan mind, whether they are mythical deities, deified rulers, or spiritual powers.
  • The Reality of False Deities: While idols themselves are lifeless wood or stone, Paul recognizes that behind the worship of these "gods" can be genuine spiritual forces, often demonic, that deceive humanity (1 Corinthians 10:20). The verse highlights that people *call* these entities gods, setting the stage for the crucial distinction in the following verse about the singular Lord.
  • Knowledge vs. Love: The broader context of 1 Corinthians 8 emphasizes that while believers may possess "knowledge" about the non-existence of idols as true gods, this knowledge must always be tempered by "love" for one's brother or sister in Christ, lest one cause a weaker conscience to stumble.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words used here are theoi (θεοί) for "gods" and kyrioi (κύριοι) for "lords." These terms were commonly used in the Greco-Roman world to refer to the vast pantheon of deities and powerful figures worshipped across various cults and regions. Paul uses these terms to describe the pagan understanding, not to affirm the divine nature of these entities, but to describe what they are *called* by those who worship them. This sets up the profound contrast with the Christian understanding of the "one God" and "one Lord" in 1 Corinthians 8:6.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that in a world filled with diverse beliefs and spiritual claims, there are many things people elevate to the status of "gods" or "lords"—be it wealth, power, fame, self, or other ideologies. Paul's statement serves as a preamble to affirming the unique sovereignty of the one true God and Jesus Christ. For believers today, it calls for:

  • Clarity of Faith: A firm understanding of biblical monotheism, distinguishing the one true God from anything else people might worship or depend on. The core declaration of Deuteronomy 6:4 remains foundational: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD."
  • Discernment: Recognizing that while false gods may be "nothing" in their essence, the worship of them can have real spiritual consequences and can be influenced by deceptive powers.
  • Love in Liberty: While Christians have freedom in Christ, this freedom should always be exercised with love and consideration for others, especially those new in faith or with sensitive consciences, as highlighted in Romans 14. Our actions should build up, not tear down.
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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

  • Jeremiah 2:28

    But where [are] thy gods that thou hast made thee? let them arise, if they can save thee in the time of thy trouble: for [according to] the number of thy cities are thy gods, O Judah.

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:4

    Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

  • Galatians 4:8

    ¶ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

  • Jeremiah 2:11

    Hath a nation changed [their] gods, which [are] yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for [that which] doth not profit.

  • Jeremiah 11:13

    For [according to] the number of thy cities were thy gods, O Judah; and [according to] the number of the streets of Jerusalem have ye set up altars to [that] shameful thing, [even] altars to burn incense unto Baal.

  • Deuteronomy 10:17

    For the LORD your God [is] God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:

  • Daniel 5:4

    They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone.