1 Corinthians 2:12
Verse
Context
Spiritual Wisdom
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. 13And this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world - We, who are the genuine apostles of Christ, have received this Spirit of God, by which we know the deep things of God; and, through the teaching of that Spirit, we preach Christ crucified. We have not therefore received the spirit of the world - of the Jewish teachers, who are all looking for a worldly kingdom and a worldly Messiah, and interpret all the scriptures of the Old Testament which relate to Him in a carnal and worldly sense. That we might know the things - We receive this teaching that we may know what those supereminently excellent things are which God has purposed freely to give to mankind. It is evident that, as the apostle means by princes of the world the rulers of the Jews, Co1 2:6-8, so by spirit of the world he here means Jewish wisdom, or their carnal mode of interpreting the sacred oracles, and their carnal expectation of a worldly kingdom under the Messiah.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we . . . received, not . . . spirit of . . . world--the personal evil "spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience" (Eph 2:2). This spirit is natural in the unregenerate, and needs not to be received. Spirit which is of God--that is, which comes from God. We have received it only by the gift of God, whose Spirit it is, whereas our own spirit is the spirit that is in us men (Co1 2:11). that we might know . . . things . . . freely given . . . of God--present experimental knowledge, to our unspeakable comfort, of His deep mysteries of wisdom, and of our future possession of the good "things which God hath prepared for them that love Him" (Co1 2:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which things also we speak,.... Namely, the things which have not been seen by the eye, heard by the ear, or understood by the heart of man; the things God has prepared for his people; the deep things of God; the things of God which are only known to the Spirit; the things that are freely given to them of God, and made known to them by the Spirit of God: these things are spoken out, preached, and declared to the sons of men, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth; which are learned in the schools of the philosophers, put together by human art, and "in the taught words of human wisdom", as the clause may be rendered; such as are taught and acquired by human learning, so artificially formed in their order and structure as to work upon the affections of men, captivate the mind, and persuade to an assent. But which the Holy Ghost teacheth; or "in the taught" words "of the Holy Ghost"; in the language of the Scriptures, edited by the Spirit of God; or such as the Holy Spirit taught them, suggested to them, directed them to the use of; for he not only supplied them with matter, but furnished them with words, with proper and spiritual oratory: comparing spiritual things with spiritual; the things of the Spirit of God, the doctrines of the Gospel, with the spiritual writings of the Old Testament, whereby their truth and harmony are demonstrated; speaking as the oracles of God, and prophesying or preaching according to the analogy of faith; and adapting spiritual words to spiritual truths, clothing them with a language suitable and convenient to them, not foreign and flourishing, but pure, simple, and native; or accommodating and communicating spiritual things, as to matter and form, to spiritual men; which sense the Arabic version favours and confirms, such being only capable of them; and with these there is no need to use the eloquence, oratory, wisdom, and words of men.
1 Corinthians 2:12
Spiritual Wisdom
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. 13And this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Question of the World to a Man of God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.4K1:04:24Man Of GodJDG 6:12PSA 119:32LUK 10:191CO 2:12JAS 4:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Samson from the Bible. Samson was a man with great strength and anointing from God. However, he made a mistake by revealing his secret to a woman who betrayed him. As a result, he was bound, blinded, and forced to grind corn for the Philistines. Eventually, his hair, the source of his strength, was cut off, and he was captured by the Philistines. The preacher emphasizes the need for abnormal men with abnormal methods and messages in the church and society.
The Origin of the Nations
By Art Katz2.3K1:26:16NationsMAT 6:33JHN 6:68ROM 8:61CO 1:291CO 2:91CO 2:121CO 2:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the role of the church in nations and how it has historically failed in being the presence of God in the nation. The speaker specifically mentions the issue of the church in Israel and the importance of the believing presence and messianic believers in that context. The speaker shares a personal experience in Tanzania, where he preached about the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts. The sermon emphasizes the need for the church to understand the divine perspective and respond appropriately to the role of the state in the last days. The speaker also highlights the concept of revelation, explaining that the hidden secrets and precious things of God can only be known through the revelation of the Spirit.
Reigning in Life - Part 1
By Alan Martin1.9K00:00VictoryJHN 16:131CO 2:122TI 1:92TI 2:1In this sermon, the focal point is verse 17 of Romans, which talks about how much more those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and righteousness will reign in life through Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the present tense of "those who receive" and highlights the concept of being earthen vessels, representing our weakness. The sermon also emphasizes the idea that grace is not just undeserved favor, but a person, Jesus Christ. The speaker encourages the audience to receive the grace and mercy of God through accepting Jesus as the Son of God.
Rejoicing in God's Authority Over Us
By Zac Poonen1.7K1:00:59AuthorityGEN 1:1MAT 13:44LUK 10:171CO 2:12REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of laying a strong foundation in one's faith before diving into deeper spiritual matters. He warns against focusing solely on external appearances and urges listeners to seek a genuine transformation from within. The sermon draws from Luke 10:17-24, where Jesus sends out seventy disciples to minister and perform miracles. The speaker highlights the danger of pride and hypocrisy, emphasizing the need for humility and a soft heart before God.
The Bible College of Wales, 1979
By Norman Grubb1.3K1:38:15Bible CollegeJHN 13:15JHN 14:17ROM 8:91CO 2:12GAL 2:201JN 3:21JN 4:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the process of spiritual growth and maturity. He emphasizes the importance of moving from being a child to becoming a young man and eventually a father in the faith. The speaker highlights that this progression requires a change in perspective and a willingness to be sent out and commissioned by God. He also mentions that settling into a higher level of spiritual maturity brings about a sense of fulfillment and purpose. The speaker draws examples from the Bible to illustrate these concepts and encourages the audience to strive for personal competence in their spiritual journey.
Das Problem Deiner Sünde (German)
By Corrie Ten Boom1.2K45:56GermanPRO 3:5PRO 4:7MAT 28:20JHN 20:291CO 2:12EPH 1:182TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences and reflections on the power of Jesus and the importance of faith. They mention the devil's attempts to discourage them and the struggle with self-sacrifice. The speaker also talks about a conversation with someone who had lost faith due to personal tragedy and questions why God allowed it to happen. They emphasize the need to give the Holy Spirit room in our lives to experience the richness of being children of God. The sermon ends with a story of a woman who remained strong in her faith despite being imprisoned, highlighting the invisible reality of God's love and the assurance that He never makes mistakes.
Faith and Feelings
By Roy Daniel1.1K39:30MAT 6:33ROM 8:151CO 2:122CO 1:20EPH 1:3COL 2:62PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of crying out to God for the souls of men. He emphasizes the importance of not relying on feelings but on God's promises. The preacher mentions how Satan can manipulate our feelings but cannot change the word of God. He gives an example of Charles Finney, who preached without preparation and saw God move mightily. The preacher also warns against falling into the trap of seeking feelings or signs before claiming God's promises. He uses the analogy of a child trying to retrieve a ball from the roof without any means to do so, highlighting the need to trust in God's provision.
Holy Spirit 1
By William MacDonald88940:09Holy SpiritGEN 1:16PSA 104:30ISA 11:1ISA 64:4ISA 64:111CO 2:91CO 2:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the frustration and confusion that arises when believers witness blessings and growth in churches that do not adhere to biblical truth. He emphasizes the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to work in His own way and rejoicing in the glorification of Christ, even in challenging circumstances. The speaker references the story of the Samaritan woman and highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in bringing salvation and eternal life to individuals and flowing out to others. The sermon also explores biblical references to the Holy Spirit as fire, oil, and dew, emphasizing the sovereign nature of His movement and the need to trust His guidance rather than relying on human strategies.
How to Grow Spiritually - Part 3
By Roy Daniel79435:19Spiritual GrowthFaith and ObedienceISA 53:6JHN 7:38JHN 10:10ROM 6:41CO 2:122CO 5:21GAL 5:1EPH 3:8COL 2:32PE 1:3Roy Daniel emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience for spiritual growth, contrasting the misguided pursuits of the Corinthian and Galatian churches. He explains that true spiritual life comes from simply looking to Jesus in faith, rather than seeking complicated rules or experiences. Daniel illustrates that salvation is straightforward and accessible, highlighting the abundant life available through Christ. He encourages believers to recognize the riches they have in Jesus, which are freely given and not earned through works. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of these spiritual treasures to foster growth and a closer relationship with God.
Glory in the Lord
By G.W. North2111:04:08Glory1CO 1:171CO 1:311CO 2:91CO 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of coming into possession of God's blessings. He highlights that God is continuously working to bring believers to a place where they can receive everything they need. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus Christ has made everything good and that believers can have access to all things through Him. The sermon also emphasizes the need to focus on God's plans and what is written in the Bible, rather than getting caught up in worldly events or predictions.
Epistle 250
By George Fox0Spiritual ModestyWorldly FashionsMAT 6:251CO 2:121CO 6:21TI 6:71TI 6:171PE 1:141PE 3:41JN 2:16George Fox emphasizes the importance of avoiding the vain fashions of the world, urging believers to focus on modesty and sobriety in their appearance and lifestyle. He warns that chasing after worldly trends can lead one away from a solid life in unity with God, and encourages a life that prioritizes spiritual over material concerns. Fox calls for a rejection of the spirit of the world, advocating for a focus on the hidden man of the heart and the eternal riches found in God. He reminds the faithful to live as pilgrims and strangers, valuing their heavenly inheritance over earthly possessions.
Humans Judge the Lord?
By A.W. Tozer0WorshipThe Role of the Holy SpiritPSA 95:6ISA 29:13JHN 4:24JHN 16:13ROM 12:11CO 2:12GAL 5:25EPH 2:18PHP 3:31PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes that God created humanity to worship Him, and that sin disrupted this natural inclination, leading to a loss of perfect fellowship with the Creator. He points out that while people instinctively seek to worship, they often choose what to worship based on personal preference, effectively judging God's intentions. This tendency has given rise to a blend of psychology and humanism masquerading as religion, where individuals elevate themselves above divine authority. Tozer asserts that true worship cannot occur without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who restores the rightful place of worship in the hearts of believers.
The Witness of the Spirit
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual AwarenessIntuitive Knowledge of GodPSA 46:10JHN 10:27JHN 14:17ROM 8:161CO 2:12GAL 4:6EPH 1:17HEB 11:12PE 1:31JN 5:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true knowledge of God comes from spiritual experience rather than intellectual reasoning. He explains that this awareness is intuitive and deeply rooted in the consciousness of the believer, which transcends mere thought. Tozer critiques Descartes' philosophical approach, asserting that self-awareness and knowledge of God precede rational thought. The inward witness of the Spirit provides a profound understanding of God that is beyond words, resulting from faith and obedience to Scripture. This experience is the essence of true religion, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with God.
Ye Shall Receive Power
By Smith Wigglesworth0Transformation through ChristEmpowerment by the Holy SpiritLUK 11:13JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ROM 8:111CO 2:12GAL 5:22EPH 3:202TI 1:7Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers, asserting that receiving the Holy Ghost equips them with divine power to witness and act according to God's will. He recounts personal experiences where the Holy Spirit brought healing and profound changes in individuals, illustrating the stark contrast between the power of God and the power of Satan. Wigglesworth stresses the necessity of being cleansed and fully surrendered to God for the Holy Spirit to work effectively in one's life. He encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit earnestly, as true empowerment leads to a life that reflects Christ's love and authority. Ultimately, he affirms that the Holy Spirit not only empowers but also reveals Christ more vividly to the believer.
Sufficiency & Perfection of Scriptures vs. Human Traditions
By James Arminius0JHN 20:311CO 2:122TI 3:161PE 4:112PE 1:21James Arminius preaches on the sufficiency and perfection of the Holy Scriptures in opposition to human traditions, emphasizing that all doctrines necessary for the salvation of the Church were delivered by the apostles over fifteen hundred years ago. He discusses Divine traditions and the opinion of the Papists, highlighting the importance of Divine doctrine manifested by a Divine act. Arminius addresses the controversy with the Papists in three questions regarding the sufficiency of Scripture, the necessity of unwritten traditions, and how to ascertain the certainty of Divine doctrines.
Knowing the Lord’s Mind and Will
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual PreparationHearing God's VoicePSA 10:17ISA 42:13JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:141CO 2:12EPH 1:17JAS 1:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of knowing the Lord's mind and will through a three-step process: petitioning God in prayer, preparing one's heart to hear His voice, and trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide us. He foresees a time when God will pour out His Spirit in unprecedented ways, leading many to seek genuine faith and connection with those who walk closely with God. Wilkerson urges believers to prepare their hearts for God's work, confessing their desire for a meaningful life and engaging deeply with Scripture. He reassures that as we ready ourselves, God will present opportunities for ministry right at our doorstep. Ultimately, he calls for readiness to serve in the last days, as God's glory will manifest in those who are prepared.
Guidelines: Part 4 Guidelines
By J. Vernon McGee0PSA 1:1PSA 119:18JHN 16:12ROM 1:51CO 2:12EPH 1:17HEB 10:25J. Vernon McGee emphasizes the importance of following guidelines for studying the Word of God, highlighting seven fundamental steps to enrich one's understanding and application of the Bible. These guidelines include beginning with prayer, reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible, exploring commentaries and resources, obeying its teachings, and sharing its wisdom with others. McGee stresses the significance of obedience, meditation, and passing on biblical truths to deepen one's spiritual growth and impact on others.
Pentecost Restored What Paradise Lost
By Andrew Murray0Dependence On GodHoly SpiritJHN 14:17JHN 15:5ACT 2:4ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 3:16PHP 2:131JN 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of recognizing our spiritual ignorance and the impotence of mere intellectual knowledge in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to humbly depend on the Holy Spirit, understanding that true communion with God requires a surrender of our own wisdom and righteousness. As one becomes aware of the Spirit's indwelling, there is a profound realization of dependence on the Father, mirroring the example of Jesus. Murray asserts that Pentecost restored the divine presence in believers, enabling them to yield to God's will and receive the gifts He freely offers. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reverence and trust in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
Then Opened He Their Understanding
By C.H. Spurgeon0Divine RevelationUnderstanding ScripturePSA 119:18PRO 2:6MAT 11:25LUK 24:45JHN 14:261CO 2:12EPH 1:17COL 1:9JAS 1:51JN 2:27C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the unique role of Jesus in opening the understanding of His followers, contrasting Him with other teachers who can only convey knowledge without imparting true spiritual insight. He highlights that while many can present Scripture, only Christ can prepare the heart to receive its deeper truths, enabling even the unlearned to grasp the mysteries of the kingdom. Spurgeon reflects on the transformation from ignorance to understanding that occurs through the Holy Spirit, underscoring the necessity of Jesus' intervention for spiritual enlightenment. He encourages believers to seek Christ's guidance in prayer to enhance their understanding of divine truths. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a humble approach to learning at the feet of Jesus, recognizing Him as the sole source of true wisdom.
We by His Spirit Prove, and Know the Things of God
By Phoebe Palmer0EXO 14:131CO 2:121CO 15:58PHP 2:131TH 5:23Phoebe Palmer preaches about the importance of consecrating all to God and seeking assurance of His acceptance. Through the guidance of the Bible, she learns that by the Spirit of God, we can know the things freely given to us by God. She realizes the sacred responsibilities that come with dedicating her entire being to God and commits to being steadfast and unmovable in serving the Lord. Despite facing doubts about the purity of her intentions, she seeks the witness of a pure heart and is encouraged to stand still and witness the salvation of God.
Spirituality
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthLove in the Body of Christ1CO 2:121CO 3:11CO 5:61CO 6:11CO 10:161CO 12:121CO 13:11CO 13:13GAL 5:22EPH 4:15T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the theme of spirituality in his sermon, addressing the spiritual immaturity of the Corinthian church as a significant issue. He explains that true spirituality is characterized by being governed by the Holy Spirit, contrasting it with carnality, which hinders spiritual growth. Sparks identifies several marks of carnality, including reliance on natural wisdom, selectiveness based on personal preferences, and a lack of moral sensibility, all of which prevent believers from maturing in their faith. He concludes that the essence of spirituality is love, which transcends spiritual gifts and is essential for true growth in Christ. The sermon serves as a call for believers to pursue a deeper, Spirit-led life that reflects Christ's love and unity within the Body of Christ.
Man: His Creation
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0GEN 1:1ECC 12:7MAT 10:28MAT 11:27MRK 8:36JHN 3:31CO 2:122CO 4:16COL 1:161TH 5:23HEB 4:12HEB 11:3Lewis Sperry Chafer discusses the importance of understanding the origin of man and all existing things, emphasizing that God has revealed these facts in the Bible, which becomes real to those saved through Christ. The division among men lies in whether God is real enough to be accepted as the Creator. The Scriptures teach that man, created in God's image, is the conclusion of all creation, with a two-fold distinction of material and immaterial aspects. The sermon delves into the distinctions between the soul and spirit of man, presenting three main theories on their origin: Pre-existence, Creation, and Traducian theories.
Letter: 50e 103 W Kelly, -, 1846
By John Nelson Darby0Authority in the ChurchGrace vs. False Pretension1CO 2:12EPH 4:11John Nelson Darby addresses the importance of true grace versus false pretensions in the church, warning against the dangers of self-confidence masked as humility. He emphasizes that authority in the church comes solely from the Holy Spirit and not from human traditions or arrangements, urging believers to rely on God's truth rather than man-made doctrines. Darby encourages his brother to stand firm in faith and to engage in spiritual battles, asserting that the church must remain subject to the truth of God's Word. He highlights the necessity of maintaining a direct relationship with God, free from interposed authority that could lead to sin. Ultimately, he reassures that God will preserve the essential truths of the faith among His elect until the end.
Evidence by Which One May Know That He Is Entirely Sanctified
By Randolph S. Foster0MAT 7:20ROM 8:161CO 2:12GAL 5:221TH 5:232TI 1:7HEB 12:141JN 3:241JN 5:10Randolph Sinks Foster delves into the question of how one can know if they have truly attained holiness after following the prescribed means, emphasizing the importance of seeking a reasonable certainty in matters of personal holiness. He discusses the distinctive marks of each stage of religious progress, from conviction for sin to entire sanctification, highlighting the necessity of inward and outward authentication of religious experiences. Foster also explores the direct and indirect evidences of sanctification, including the joint witness of the Divine Spirit, the fruits of the Spirit, and the absence of sin as proof of sanctification.
The Work of the Spirit Is the Work of True Christianity
By Andrew Murray0True ChristianityThe Holy SpiritJHN 14:26JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:9ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 1:21GAL 5:25EPH 1:131JN 2:27Andrew Murray emphasizes that the work of the Holy Spirit is central to true Christianity and the New Testament church. He explains that the Holy Spirit serves as God's seal on believers, enabling them to understand divine truths. The effectiveness of a believer's life hinges on their relationship with the Holy Spirit, who must be recognized and allowed to lead. Murray argues that a revival in the church requires both ministers and members to acknowledge the Holy Spirit's role as the ultimate teacher. This understanding transforms a believer's life, allowing them to experience the Spirit as the very essence of their being.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world - We, who are the genuine apostles of Christ, have received this Spirit of God, by which we know the deep things of God; and, through the teaching of that Spirit, we preach Christ crucified. We have not therefore received the spirit of the world - of the Jewish teachers, who are all looking for a worldly kingdom and a worldly Messiah, and interpret all the scriptures of the Old Testament which relate to Him in a carnal and worldly sense. That we might know the things - We receive this teaching that we may know what those supereminently excellent things are which God has purposed freely to give to mankind. It is evident that, as the apostle means by princes of the world the rulers of the Jews, Co1 2:6-8, so by spirit of the world he here means Jewish wisdom, or their carnal mode of interpreting the sacred oracles, and their carnal expectation of a worldly kingdom under the Messiah.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we . . . received, not . . . spirit of . . . world--the personal evil "spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience" (Eph 2:2). This spirit is natural in the unregenerate, and needs not to be received. Spirit which is of God--that is, which comes from God. We have received it only by the gift of God, whose Spirit it is, whereas our own spirit is the spirit that is in us men (Co1 2:11). that we might know . . . things . . . freely given . . . of God--present experimental knowledge, to our unspeakable comfort, of His deep mysteries of wisdom, and of our future possession of the good "things which God hath prepared for them that love Him" (Co1 2:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which things also we speak,.... Namely, the things which have not been seen by the eye, heard by the ear, or understood by the heart of man; the things God has prepared for his people; the deep things of God; the things of God which are only known to the Spirit; the things that are freely given to them of God, and made known to them by the Spirit of God: these things are spoken out, preached, and declared to the sons of men, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth; which are learned in the schools of the philosophers, put together by human art, and "in the taught words of human wisdom", as the clause may be rendered; such as are taught and acquired by human learning, so artificially formed in their order and structure as to work upon the affections of men, captivate the mind, and persuade to an assent. But which the Holy Ghost teacheth; or "in the taught" words "of the Holy Ghost"; in the language of the Scriptures, edited by the Spirit of God; or such as the Holy Spirit taught them, suggested to them, directed them to the use of; for he not only supplied them with matter, but furnished them with words, with proper and spiritual oratory: comparing spiritual things with spiritual; the things of the Spirit of God, the doctrines of the Gospel, with the spiritual writings of the Old Testament, whereby their truth and harmony are demonstrated; speaking as the oracles of God, and prophesying or preaching according to the analogy of faith; and adapting spiritual words to spiritual truths, clothing them with a language suitable and convenient to them, not foreign and flourishing, but pure, simple, and native; or accommodating and communicating spiritual things, as to matter and form, to spiritual men; which sense the Arabic version favours and confirms, such being only capable of them; and with these there is no need to use the eloquence, oratory, wisdom, and words of men.