1 Corinthians 2:11
Verse
Context
Spiritual Wisdom
10But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.11For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.12We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For what man knoweth the things of a man - The word ανθρωπων in the first clause is omitted by the Codex Alexandrinus, and one other; and by Athanasius, Cyril, and Vigil of Tapsus. Bishop Pearce contends strongly against the authenticity of the word, and reads the passage thus: "For what is there that knoweth the things of a man, except the spirit of a man that is in him?" "I leave out," says the learned bishop, "ανθρωπων, with the Alexandrian MS., and read τις γαρ οιδεν τα του ανθρωπου; because I conceive that the common reading is wide of St. Paul's meaning; for to say, What man except the spirit of a man, is (I think) to speak improperly, and to suppose that the spirit of a man is a man; but it is very proper to say, What except the spirit of a man: τις is feminine as well as masculine, and therefore may be supplied with ουσια, or some such word, as well as with ανθρωπος." Though the authority for omitting this word is comparatively slender, yet it must be owned that its omission renders the text much more intelligible. But even one MS. may preserve the true reading. The spirit of a man knows the things of a man: that is, a man is conscious of all the schemes, plans, and purposes, that pass in his own mind; and no man can know these things but himself. So, the Spirit of God, He whom we call the Third Person of the glorious Trinity, knows all the counsels and determinations of the Supreme Being. As the Spirit is here represented to live in God as the soul lives in the body of a man, and as this Spirit knows all the things of God, and had revealed those to the apostles which concern the salvation of the world, therefore what they spoke and preached was true, and men may implicitly depend upon it. The miracles which they did, in the name of Christ, were the proof that they had that Spirit, and spoke the truth of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
what man, &c.--literally, "who of men knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of that man?" things of God knoweth no man--rather, "none knoweth," not angel or man. This proves the impossibility of any knowing the things of God, save by the Spirit of God (who alone knows them, since even in the case of man, so infinitely inferior in mind to God, none of his fellow men, but his own spirit alone knows the things hidden within him).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now we have received not the spirit of the world,.... Meaning either Satan, the god of the world, the spirit that is in it, and rules over it; or the sinful carnal disposition of the men of the world, which is a spirit of covetousness, uncleanness, pride, malice, and error; or rather the carnal wisdom of the world, which is common to worldly men, lies in the knowledge of worldly things, and is pursued and exercised for worldly advantages: but the Spirit which is of God; the Holy Ghost, which proceeds from the Father and the Son, is the gift of God to his people, and whom they receive through the doctrine of faith into their hearts, as a spirit of illumination, faith, comfort, adoption, truth, and as a seal and earnest of future glory: that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God; who has given himself, his Son, and all things freely along with him, as a justifying righteousness, remission of sins, adoption, and eternal life; all which were provided for them in the council and covenant of peace, and made up that grace given unto them freely in Christ before the world began; for there was not only an eternal purpose to bestow these gifts, in the mind of God, and a promise of them in covenant, but a real donation of them to them, as considered in Christ so early: besides, God gave his Son, and Christ gave himself for them before they knew anything of the matter; and therefore must be unknown, until made known by the Spirit of God, who is sent unto them, and into their hearts, for this purpose, to make them known; which he does, by showing all this grace, and by opening and applying the truths of the everlasting Gospel: and this knowledge is not a mere notional one, but spiritual, experimental, and approbational, joined with affection and admiration; and is a knowledge of interest in these things, and which makes both humble and obedient.
1 Corinthians 2:11
Spiritual Wisdom
10But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.11For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.12We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Apostolic Church
By Art Katz3.7K1:46:34ROM 11:361CO 2:111CO 12:7EPH 5:181TH 5:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring the true manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the church, contrasting it with the misuse of charismatic gifts. It delves into the need for authenticity in prayer and worship, highlighting the significance of a tested vessel with godly character to deliver a true word from God in crisis moments. The speaker also stresses the church's role in coveting the Holy Spirit and His gifts, with a burning jealousy for the glory of God forever as the centerpiece of the church's identity.
How to Enter in the Spiritual Reality
By Manley Beasley1.2K40:40Spiritual RealityPRO 20:27MAT 13:58JHN 2:23ROM 3:23ROM 6:23ROM 8:161CO 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the seven basic laws to entering into spiritual reality. He emphasizes the importance of having a vital relationship with God and maintaining fellowship with Him. The preacher also highlights the need to recognize Jesus as Lord and to know God on a personal level. He encourages the audience to seek a spiritual revival and to hunger for the reality of God in their lives.
The Witness of One Man
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:00:37ISA 55:8MAT 11:281CO 2:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life that is fully surrendered to God, drawing insights from the book of Job and other biblical examples. It highlights the need to understand God's thoughts, to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to be a burning bush that shines brighter and brighter in serving one's generation. The speaker challenges the listeners to be men and women of God who fearlessly live before God's face, influencing others and standing firm against opposition and legalism.
Guidelines for Growth - Part 3
By J. Vernon McGee8971:12:33NEH 8:7PSA 36:9MAT 6:331CO 2:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of meditating on the Word of God and how television can distract families from spiritual growth. He highlights the decline in biblical knowledge among children and the need for meditation on God's Word to combat the indifference towards it in churches. The speaker also discusses the importance of obedience to God's commands and the impact of living a life that reflects the Gospel. Lastly, he encourages the audience to not only read, study, and meditate on the Bible but also to pass it on to others, as this is crucial for continued spiritual growth.
Good Communications
By George Verwer51446:25Christian LifeACT 15:36ROM 12:161CO 2:112CO 6:14EPH 4:32TI 2:151PE 5:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses four enemies that can hinder our communication and relationships. The first enemy is faulty communication, where what we say can have different meanings to different people. The second enemy is pride, which can lead to arrogance and a lack of humility in our interactions. The third enemy is impatience and irritability, particularly towards new recruits or those who may not have the same level of understanding as us. The fourth enemy is a lack of understanding and empathy, where we may not consider that others may not have had the same experiences or knowledge as us. The speaker emphasizes the importance of working on these enemies and highlights a biblical example from Acts chapter 15.
How to Walk by the Spirit
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareWalking In The SpiritPRO 16:32ROM 6:6ROM 8:161CO 2:111CO 12:131CO 15:45GAL 5:16EPH 2:2PHP 1:271PE 1:13Watchman Nee emphasizes the necessity of understanding and walking by the Spirit to engage in spiritual warfare against the powers of darkness. He explains that the human spirit is the organ through which the Holy Spirit operates, and that many Christians fail to recognize the distinction between the spirit and the soul, leading to a soulish walk rather than a spiritual one. Nee urges believers to cultivate a strong spirit, which is essential for victory over sin and Satan, and to maintain a clear and unclouded spirit to discern God's will. He highlights the importance of ruling the spirit and being in constant cooperation with the Holy Spirit to experience true spiritual authority and power. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the spirit life and the active choice to walk in the Spirit daily.
The Cross and Life in the Spirit
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0The CrossLife in the SpiritJHN 7:37ACT 4:8ROM 7:6ROM 8:16ROM 12:111CO 2:112CO 7:1PHP 1:9COL 1:91TH 5:23Jessie Penn-Lewis emphasizes the transformative power of the Cross and the role of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. She explains that through the Cross, believers experience a newness of spirit, allowing them to connect deeply with God and understand His will. The sermon highlights the distinction between the human spirit and the Holy Spirit, urging believers to cleanse their spirits and be led by the Spirit in their daily lives. Penn-Lewis encourages a fervent spirit that expresses itself in service and testimony, emphasizing the importance of spiritual discernment and obedience to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Personality
By Olin Alfred Curtis0GEN 1:27PSA 139:13ROM 12:21CO 2:11PHP 2:3JAS 1:22Olin Alfred Curtis delves into the concept of personality, emphasizing the importance of self-consciousness, self-grasp, self-estimate, and self-decision in defining what it means to be a person. He explores the process of personal development, starting from self-separation to the culmination in self-decision, highlighting the complexity and significance of individual identity and moral responsibility. Curtis challenges the notion of doubting one's existence and the invasion of consciousness, pointing towards the dual nature of human life and the struggle to achieve personal mastery amidst conflicting elements. He concludes by defining a person as one capable of self-conscious decision, navigating the journey towards personal growth and moral character.
John 2:11-22
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 16:22JHN 2:12JHN 2:16JHN 2:18JHN 2:22JHN 8:281CO 2:11John Chrysostom preaches about the beginning of miracles that Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee, emphasizing the importance of being vigilant against the devil's attacks to safeguard our salvation. He highlights the need for individual introspection and cleansing of the soul to fully receive the divine teachings. Chrysostom delves into the significance of Jesus cleansing the Temple, showcasing His authority and zeal for God's house, despite the opposition He faced. He explores the enigmatic ways in which Jesus spoke, challenging the listeners to seek understanding and faith in His words, especially regarding His resurrection. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to emulate the disciples' dedication and wisdom, emphasizing the essential role of alms-giving in securing blessings and entrance into the Kingdom.
Hebrews 9:24-10:9
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 6:7LUK 22:19JHN 17:241CO 2:11HEB 9:24HEB 9:26John Chrysostom preaches about the significance of Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing how He entered Heaven to appear in the presence of God for us, offering Himself once to put away sin. He contrasts the earthly temple with the heavenly reality, highlighting Christ's role as both High Priest and sacrifice. Chrysostom explains the importance of partaking in the Communion with a pure conscience and heart, urging believers to approach the spiritual table reverently and consistently, not just as a ritual but as a remembrance of Christ's sacrifice.
(Amazing Facts) 2. Amazing Facts About Man
By Zac Poonen0GEN 1:27PSA 139:14ECC 3:11ROM 2:141CO 2:11Zac Poonen preaches on the marvel of man being the crown of God's creation, intricately designed by God with amazing features like the brain, eyes, ears, heart, and glands, showcasing the perfect balance and intelligence in the human body. Beyond the physical body, man possesses a soul with a mind, emotions, and will, enabling him to reason and make decisions, setting him apart from animals. Furthermore, man has a spirit that distinguishes him from the rest of creation, giving him a moral conscience and a longing for a higher purpose beyond earthly life, emphasizing his unique relationship with God.
The Opinion That 99% of Our Fellow-Believers Have About Us Can Be 100% Wrong
By Zac Poonen01SA 16:7MAT 7:15JHN 4:241CO 2:11GAL 5:22PHP 2:31JN 4:1REV 3:1Zac Poonen delivers a powerful sermon based on Revelation 3:1, highlighting the danger of being deceived by outward appearances and the importance of God's evaluation over man's opinion. He emphasizes the need for believers to discern between carnal and spiritual leaders, as well as between human-soul-power and Holy-Spirit-power, reminding them that God looks at the heart. Poonen warns that what others perceive as spiritual vitality in individuals or churches may not align with God's assessment, which values humility, purity, love, and selflessness above external displays of religiosity.
Discernment
By Albert Zehr01CH 12:32PRO 29:25MAT 16:2LUK 12:56JHN 15:41CO 2:11GAL 2:20EPH 4:131PE 5:7Albert Zehr preaches about the critical need for discernment, especially in the end times. He emphasizes the importance of seeking discernment from God to avoid being deceived by false signs and miracles. Zehr shares personal experiences and insights on discernment, highlighting the need to perceive things from the Lord's perspective and to know the mind of Christ in all situations. He delves into the definition of discernment, its spiritual dimension, and the innate characteristic of the Holy Spirit within believers.
God Is Above All Understanding
By Meister Eckhart0JOB 37:5PSA 19:7PSA 46:10LUK 7:141CO 2:11Meister Eckhart emphasizes the importance of the soul's intelligence and will as the first faculties to emerge, followed by other faculties. He highlights the beauty of God's work in the soul, which surpasses all other creations. Eckhart discusses the secret spark of the soul that apprehends God and the true union between God and the soul in the spirit of the soul. He challenges conventional descriptions of God, stating that God is nameless, transcendent, and beyond human understanding, urging silence rather than speaking falsely about God.
A Messenger
By Thomas Bradbury0JOB 1:21JOB 33:23PSA 40:7PSA 51:4ISA 61:1JHN 1:14JHN 1:18ROM 5:21ROM 10:31CO 2:111TI 1:14Thomas Bradbury preaches on the remarkable book of Job, highlighting God's care for and interest in Job's education and discipline, despite the opinions of men. Job's unwavering faith and humility in the face of extreme trials showcase his righteousness in God's eyes. The sermon delves into the interactions between Job and his friends, emphasizing the need for grace-filled ministry over legalistic judgment. Elihu's role as an interpreter and daysman mirrors Jesus Christ's grace and truth, offering spiritual instruction and revealing God's righteousness to the convicted sinner.
The Pivotal Point
By Ernest O'Neill0PRO 3:5EZK 36:26JHN 3:3ROM 2:151CO 2:11GAL 5:16EPH 4:231TI 1:5HEB 9:141PE 3:16Ernest O'Neill emphasizes the pivotal relationship between our conscience and will, highlighting that our spirit and soul intersect at this point. Obedience of our will to our conscience allows God to infuse our soul with His life, leading to true regeneration. However, rejecting God's laws in our conscience hinders the flow of life into our spirit. The key to experiencing supernatural life is responding positively to our conscience, which can lead to a re-orientation of our spirit by the Spirit of Christ.
Deduction or Induction?
By Ernest O'Neill0PRO 20:27MRK 2:8LUK 1:46JHN 14:261CO 2:11Ernest O'Neill discusses the concept of scientific thinking and the debate between inductive and deductive logic. He explores the idea that intuition, described in the Bible as a function of the human spirit conscious of the Creator, plays a significant role in human thought processes. O'Neill delves into biblical references that highlight the ability of our spirits to perceive things beyond the capabilities of our minds, emphasizing the importance of intuition in understanding deeper truths.
The Loss of Intuition
By Ernest O'Neill0GEN 2:16PSA 139:14PRO 3:5ISA 30:21JHN 16:13ROM 8:141CO 2:11EPH 2:10COL 2:8Ernest O'Neill delves into the ancient civilizations of the Incas, Egyptians, and Chinese, marveling at their mathematical, engineering, and architectural feats that surpass our modern understanding. He explores the concept of intuition as a divine gift for navigating life, contrasting it with the detrimental effects of relying solely on human intellect and precedents. Reflecting on the Garden of Eden, he emphasizes the importance of intuition in man's early existence and the subsequent decline caused by choosing independence over intuitive connection with God. O'Neill highlights the remnants of God's image in us, urging a return to intuitive living and a departure from the limitations of accumulated human knowledge.
Your Unique Life
By Ernest O'Neill0JHN 3:6JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ROM 8:14ROM 8:161CO 2:11GAL 5:251JN 4:11JN 4:6Ernest O'Neill preaches about the unique sense of destiny that each individual feels, emphasizing that despite our ordinary appearance and personality, we all believe we are made for something special. He delves into the concept of the spirit as the depth inside us that connects us to the life we were created for, highlighting the importance of seeking direction from the Spirit of God. O'Neill stresses the significance of embracing the truth found in the New Testament and following the guidance of Jesus to discover and live out the personal destiny planned by the Creator, separate from societal norms and opinions.
Understanding Yourself
By Ernest O'Neill0JHN 4:24ROM 8:161CO 2:111TH 5:23HEB 4:12Ernest O'Neill addresses the confusion many face in understanding themselves, attributing it to the influence of Darwinism that has led us to view ourselves as mere animals with physical and mental/emotional aspects. However, the Bible presents a different perspective, highlighting three levels of existence - spirit, soul, and body - each playing a crucial role in our personalities. O'Neill emphasizes the importance of achieving balance and harmony among these three levels to experience a superhuman life that transcends normal human limitations, with Jesus Christ exemplifying the significance of the spirit in distinguishing humans from animals.
The Human Spirit
By Ernest O'Neill0GEN 2:7PSA 139:14ECC 12:7JHN 4:24ROM 8:161CO 2:112CO 4:16GAL 5:161TH 5:23HEB 4:12Ernest O'Neill delves into the topic 'How Were You Made?' by exploring the three elements of human nature as described in the Bible. Contrary to the common belief of body and soul, the Bible reveals that humans are made up of body, breath (spirit), and soul. The neglect of the spiritual aspect leads to a shallow existence, described as 'hollow men' by T.S. Eliot, resulting in inner emptiness and a sense of something missing in life. O'Neill challenges the prevailing dichotomy of human nature and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and nurturing the spirit within us for a more fulfilling life.
Inner Space
By Ernest O'Neill0PSA 42:1PSA 139:14ECC 3:11JHN 4:24JHN 14:16ROM 8:6ROM 8:161CO 2:112CO 4:18COL 1:16Ernest O'Neill discusses the prevalent dissatisfaction many feel in life despite having the freedom to make choices and pursue various avenues of fulfillment. He delves into the concept of a deeper level of consciousness beyond intellect and emotions, where individuals sense a unique essence within themselves that connects them to a higher power. Drawing from biblical references by Jesus, Moses, and Paul, he emphasizes the existence of a spiritual aspect within us that enables communication with our Creator and provides a profound connection to the universe beyond physical existence.
Dead Inside
By Ernest O'Neill0PSA 139:14JHN 4:24ROM 8:6ROM 12:21CO 2:112CO 4:18GAL 5:16EPH 6:121PE 5:81JN 4:1Ernest O'Neill delves into the struggle of feeling like mere objects in a consumer-driven world, exploring the loss of individuality and the yearning for a deeper sense of self and purpose. He discusses the inner depths of our spirits, the desire for self-worth, and the search for truth in a materialistic society. O'Neill touches on the distinction between soul experiences and true spiritual experiences, cautioning against being misled by deceptive forces in the psychic realm and the dangers of seeking fulfillment through drugs.
Struggling Into Life
By Ernest O'Neill0PRO 20:27JHN 4:24ROM 2:151CO 2:11GAL 5:16Ernest O'Neill preaches about the loss of spiritual life within us, comparing it to the carefree joy of children that gets crushed by adult responsibilities. He emphasizes the need to awaken our spirits to trust in our Creator and move away from self-reliance. O'Neill highlights the importance of conscience as a part of our spirit that guides us towards God's will and intentions, urging us to listen to our deepest consciousness of God rather than societal norms. He encourages individuals to take personal responsibility in responding to their conscience and aligning their actions with the stirrings of their spirit to experience true spiritual life.
Spirit and Soul
By Watchman Nee0Spirit vs. SoulCommunion with GodGEN 41:8PRO 25:28MAT 26:41LUK 1:47JHN 4:23ROM 1:9ROM 8:161CO 2:111CO 6:171CO 14:14Watchman Nee emphasizes the necessity for believers to recognize their spirit, as it is the primary means through which God communicates with humanity. He explains that many Christians confuse the functions of the spirit with those of the soul, leading to a limited understanding of spiritual communion. Nee outlines the three main functions of the human spirit: conscience, intuition, and communion, asserting that true worship and knowledge of God occur in the spirit, not the soul. He warns that without discernment, believers may remain trapped in soulish experiences, hindering their spiritual growth. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the spirit to foster a genuine relationship with God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For what man knoweth the things of a man - The word ανθρωπων in the first clause is omitted by the Codex Alexandrinus, and one other; and by Athanasius, Cyril, and Vigil of Tapsus. Bishop Pearce contends strongly against the authenticity of the word, and reads the passage thus: "For what is there that knoweth the things of a man, except the spirit of a man that is in him?" "I leave out," says the learned bishop, "ανθρωπων, with the Alexandrian MS., and read τις γαρ οιδεν τα του ανθρωπου; because I conceive that the common reading is wide of St. Paul's meaning; for to say, What man except the spirit of a man, is (I think) to speak improperly, and to suppose that the spirit of a man is a man; but it is very proper to say, What except the spirit of a man: τις is feminine as well as masculine, and therefore may be supplied with ουσια, or some such word, as well as with ανθρωπος." Though the authority for omitting this word is comparatively slender, yet it must be owned that its omission renders the text much more intelligible. But even one MS. may preserve the true reading. The spirit of a man knows the things of a man: that is, a man is conscious of all the schemes, plans, and purposes, that pass in his own mind; and no man can know these things but himself. So, the Spirit of God, He whom we call the Third Person of the glorious Trinity, knows all the counsels and determinations of the Supreme Being. As the Spirit is here represented to live in God as the soul lives in the body of a man, and as this Spirit knows all the things of God, and had revealed those to the apostles which concern the salvation of the world, therefore what they spoke and preached was true, and men may implicitly depend upon it. The miracles which they did, in the name of Christ, were the proof that they had that Spirit, and spoke the truth of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
what man, &c.--literally, "who of men knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of that man?" things of God knoweth no man--rather, "none knoweth," not angel or man. This proves the impossibility of any knowing the things of God, save by the Spirit of God (who alone knows them, since even in the case of man, so infinitely inferior in mind to God, none of his fellow men, but his own spirit alone knows the things hidden within him).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now we have received not the spirit of the world,.... Meaning either Satan, the god of the world, the spirit that is in it, and rules over it; or the sinful carnal disposition of the men of the world, which is a spirit of covetousness, uncleanness, pride, malice, and error; or rather the carnal wisdom of the world, which is common to worldly men, lies in the knowledge of worldly things, and is pursued and exercised for worldly advantages: but the Spirit which is of God; the Holy Ghost, which proceeds from the Father and the Son, is the gift of God to his people, and whom they receive through the doctrine of faith into their hearts, as a spirit of illumination, faith, comfort, adoption, truth, and as a seal and earnest of future glory: that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God; who has given himself, his Son, and all things freely along with him, as a justifying righteousness, remission of sins, adoption, and eternal life; all which were provided for them in the council and covenant of peace, and made up that grace given unto them freely in Christ before the world began; for there was not only an eternal purpose to bestow these gifts, in the mind of God, and a promise of them in covenant, but a real donation of them to them, as considered in Christ so early: besides, God gave his Son, and Christ gave himself for them before they knew anything of the matter; and therefore must be unknown, until made known by the Spirit of God, who is sent unto them, and into their hearts, for this purpose, to make them known; which he does, by showing all this grace, and by opening and applying the truths of the everlasting Gospel: and this knowledge is not a mere notional one, but spiritual, experimental, and approbational, joined with affection and admiration; and is a knowledge of interest in these things, and which makes both humble and obedient.