1 Corinthians 2:7
Verse
Context
Spiritual Wisdom
6Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom—but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.8None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wisdom of God in a mystery - The Gospel of Jesus Christ, which had been comparatively hidden from the foundation of the world, (the settling of the Jewish economy, as this phrase often means), though appointed from the beginning to be revealed in the fullness of time. For, though this Gospel was, in a certain sense, announced by the prophets, and prefigured by the law, yet it is certain that even the most intelligent of the Jewish rulers, their doctors, scribes, and Pharisees, had no adequate knowledge of it; therefore it was still a mystery to them and others, till it was so gloriously revealed by the preaching of the apostles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
wisdom of God--emphatically contrasted with the wisdom of men and of this world (Co1 2:5-6). in a mystery--connected in construction with "we speak": We speak as dealing with a mystery; that is not something to be kept hidden, but what heretofore was so, but is now revealed. Whereas the pagan mysteries were revealed only to a chosen few, the Gospel mysteries were made known to all who would obey the truth. "If our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost" (Co2 4:3), "whom the God of this world hath blinded." Ordinarily we use "mystery" in reference to those from whom the knowledge is withheld; the apostles, in reference to those to whom it is revealed [WHATELY]. It is hidden before it is brought forward, and when it is brought forward it still remains hidden to those that are imperfect [BENGEL]. ordained--literally, "foreordained" (compare Co1 2:9), "prepared for them that love Him." before the world--rather, "before the ages" (of time), that is, from eternity. This infinitely antedates worldly wisdom in antiquity. It was before not only the wisdom of the world, but eternally before the world itself and its ages. to our glory--ours both now and hereafter, from "the Lord of glory" (Co1 2:8), who brings to naught "the princes of this world."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which none of the princes of this world knew,.... Meaning not the devils, as some have thought, who had they known what God designed to do by the death of Christ, would never have been concerned in bringing it about; nor so much the political governors of the Roman empire, particularly in Judea, as Herod and Pontius Pilate, who also were entirely ignorant of it; but rather the ecclesiastical rulers of the Jewish church state, called , "this world", in distinction from , "the world to come", or times of the Messiah; see Heb 2:5 such as the priests, Scribes, and Pharisees, the Rabbins and learned doctors. These knew nothing of the wisdom of the Gospel, or the wise counsels of God concerning salvation by Christ; they knew not the Messiah when he came, nor the prophecies concerning him; the Jews and their rulers did what they did through ignorance, and fulfilled those things they knew nothing of; see Act 3:17. for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. They would have received him, believed in him, and not put him to death: a very great character is here given of Christ, "the Lord of glory", or the glorious Jehovah; reference seems to be had to Psa 24:7 where he is called, "the King of glory", and is an argument of his true and proper deity: he is so called because possessed of all glorious perfections, and is the brightness of his Father's glory; the same honour and glory are due to him as to the Father; and the same ascriptions of glory are made to him by angels and men. This is an instance of what the ancients call a communication of idioms or properties, whereby that which belongs to one nature in Christ, is predicated of his person, as denominated from the other: thus here the crucifixion of him, which properly belongs to his human nature, and that to his body only, is spoken of his person, and that as denominated from his divine nature, "the Lord of glory"; and he being so, this rendered his crucifixion, sufferings, and death, in human nature, efficacious to answer all the purposes for which they were endured.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:7 In Paul’s writings, mystery often refers to a truth previously hidden but now revealed in the Good News of Christ and his saving work (see Rom 11:25-27; 1 Tim 3:9, 16). • before the world began: From the very beginning, it has been God’s desire to save his chosen people through Christ (see Rom 16:25-26; Eph 1:9-12; 3:3-12; Col 1:25-27) and to bring them to ultimate glory in the coming age (see Rom 5:2; 8:18-21, 29-30; 1 Thes 2:12).
1 Corinthians 2:7
Spiritual Wisdom
6Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom—but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.8None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Bible Meaning of Predestination
By Rolfe Barnard76630:57ROM 8:291CO 2:7EPH 1:3EPH 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. He shares a personal story of a man who expressed a deep desire to be holy and made like Christ. The preacher assures him that God can save him and make him like Jesus. He emphasizes that salvation is not just about believing in doctrines, but about being transformed into the character of Christ. The preacher encourages the audience to seek this transformation and not settle for a superficial Christianity that allows them to do as they please.
Philippians 3
By John Nelson Darby0Christian IdentityFocus on ChristMAT 25:6JHN 13:31ROM 8:291CO 2:72CO 5:17EPH 1:3PHP 3:8PHP 3:20COL 3:11JN 3:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the practical characteristics of the Christian life as outlined in Philippians 3, focusing on lowliness and the energy that propels believers towards Christ in glory. He highlights that the Christian path is not about sin but about walking in the Spirit, with Christ's accomplished work and heavenly calling as the central focus. Darby explains that believers are called to be conformed to the image of Christ, and that the Cross signifies the end of reliance on human righteousness, establishing a new identity in Christ. He urges Christians to live with their affections set on heavenly things, recognizing their citizenship in heaven and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a singular focus on Christ as the object of our lives, encouraging believers to count all things as loss for the sake of knowing Him.
Christ and the Spirit 1 Corinthians 2
By John Nelson Darby0Spiritual InsightWisdom Of God1CO 2:7John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound wisdom of God revealed through Christ, which was hidden from the rulers of this world, leading to the crucifixion of the Lord of glory. He explains that true understanding of God's mysteries comes only through the Holy Spirit, contrasting the ignorance of the worldly wise with the spiritual insight granted to believers. Darby highlights the importance of recognizing our responsibility before God and the necessity of being fully reliant on Christ for redemption and life. He urges Christians to evaluate whether their hearts are set on the things of God or the distractions of the world, reminding them of their glorious inheritance in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a life that reflects the reality of being in Christ, living in the light of His grace and glory.
Evening Thoughts - October
By Octavius Winslow0God's LawFaith and TransformationPSA 19:7JER 14:7DAN 9:13ROM 4:5ROM 5:81CO 2:71CO 15:20GAL 1:231TI 3:15HEB 11:8Octavius Winslow reflects on the profound nature of God's law, emphasizing its perfection and the necessity of love for God as the ultimate fulfillment of the law. He discusses the mystery of divine wisdom and the transformative power of faith, illustrating how true understanding of God comes through experience rather than mere reason. Winslow highlights the glory brought to Christ through the conversion of sinners and the assurance of believers' resurrection through Christ's own resurrection. He urges believers to maintain a close relationship with God through prayer and to recognize the importance of confession and reliance on Christ for spiritual sustenance.
A God That Hideth Himself
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Mystery of FaithGod's SovereigntyPSA 77:19PRO 25:2ISA 45:3ROM 11:331CO 2:72CO 4:7EPH 3:9COL 1:26T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound mystery of God's hidden ways, as expressed in Isaiah 45:15, where the prophet marvels at God's sovereignty in orchestrating Israel's restoration despite overwhelming odds. He emphasizes that God's methods often defy human understanding, as seen in the unexpected means of deliverance through a Gentile ruler and ultimately through the Incarnation of Christ. Sparks draws parallels between the hiddenness of God's plans for Israel, the Church, and individual believers, highlighting that true understanding comes from faith rather than human reasoning. The sermon culminates in the recognition that God's wisdom and purpose are often concealed, inviting believers to trust in His unfathomable designs.
On Reserve in Communicating Religious Knowledge (Continued)
By J.H. Newman0PRO 25:2MAT 13:11ROM 16:251CO 2:71CO 4:11CO 13:122CO 3:6EPH 3:9COL 1:261TI 3:9The preacher, Origen, delves into the testimony of the Ancient Church, emphasizing the principle of reserve in revealing religious truths, which is not based on heathen practices but on Scripture alone. The early Church's testimony and practices align with this principle, seen in the Disciplina Arcani and the interpretation of Scripture with hidden meanings. The Ancient Church's reverence and caution in handling sacred truths are perfectly analogous to Jesus' example of revealing truths gradually. Origen and other Fathers connect this principle not only to Scripture but also to the mysteries of creation and sacraments, reflecting a great religious principle and rule of conduct.
The Cross Preordained
By David Servant0JOS 24:15ISA 53:6MAT 25:34ACT 2:22ROM 8:29ROM 10:17ROM 11:321CO 2:7EPH 1:31PE 1:11JN 2:2REV 13:8David Servant preaches about God's eternal plan to have a family who would reciprocate His love, emphasizing the free will given to humanity to choose to obey or disobey Him. Despite knowing that all would choose disobedience, God planned to reveal His great love through Jesus' sacrificial death, offering mercy without compromising His righteousness. The concept of predestination is explored, debunking Calvinism's fatal flaws and highlighting that God's choosing is based on His foreknowledge of our faith, not on an arbitrary decree. The predestined sacrificial death of Jesus Christ makes it possible for believers to be part of God's eternal family and enjoy His blessings forever.
"The Shepherd of Israel" ch.10:1-10
By Charles Alexander0PSA 23:1ISA 40:9JER 23:4EZK 34:23MAT 24:1JHN 10:11JHN 10:271CO 2:7HEB 8:8REV 3:14Charles Alexander delves into the profound prophetic purpose and revelation found in the tenth chapter of John, where Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, fulfilling ancient prophecies and declaring His deity. The chapter serves as a divine commentary on the events of the previous chapter, emphasizing Christ's unique position as the One sent by God in accordance with ancient prophecies. Through the parable of the Good Shepherd, Christ reveals Himself as the Shepherd of Israel, fulfilling thousands of years of prophecy and uniting Jew and Gentile in one flock and one kingdom. The chapter highlights the spiritual understanding that comes with growth, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Christ as the exclusive access to heaven and the source of abundant life.
The Humble Receive Grace and Revelation
By Zac Poonen0MAT 11:25JHN 5:44ROM 6:141CO 2:71CO 2:141PE 5:5Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of learning submission to spiritual authority, humility, and brokenness from a young age to fulfill God's purpose for effective ministry later in life. He warns that failure to submit to spiritual authority can lead to missing out on the ministry God has planned. Poonen highlights the danger of pride, stating that Bible knowledge alone cannot give grace, as seen in the blindness of the Pharisees despite their deep knowledge of Scriptures. He stresses the need for humility to understand God's Word, receive grace, and manifest Christ's character in victory over sin.
Treasures in the Darkness
By Charles E. Cowman0EXO 20:21PSA 18:11PSA 97:21CO 2:71PE 4:12Charles E. Cowman preaches about the significance of embracing the darkness and trials in life, emphasizing that God's hidden secrets are often revealed in the midst of challenges. He encourages believers to trust in God's presence even in the darkest moments, as those times of trial can lead to a deeper connection with God and a greater understanding of His glory and mysteries.
Of the Super-Sensual Life
By Jacob Boehme0MAT 6:22JHN 4:241CO 2:7COL 3:2Jacob Boehme preaches about the journey to the Supersensual Life, emphasizing the need to break down the partition wall in the soul separating it from God. He discusses the two wills and two eyes within the fallen soul, highlighting the importance of uniting them to attain divine vision and hearing. Boehme stresses the significance of surrendering the creaturely will to God's will, seeking the divine light to regulate and ennoble the natural light within the soul. He encourages seeking the unity of will and vision by entering fully into the will of Christ and focusing on the eternal light to bring harmony to the soul.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wisdom of God in a mystery - The Gospel of Jesus Christ, which had been comparatively hidden from the foundation of the world, (the settling of the Jewish economy, as this phrase often means), though appointed from the beginning to be revealed in the fullness of time. For, though this Gospel was, in a certain sense, announced by the prophets, and prefigured by the law, yet it is certain that even the most intelligent of the Jewish rulers, their doctors, scribes, and Pharisees, had no adequate knowledge of it; therefore it was still a mystery to them and others, till it was so gloriously revealed by the preaching of the apostles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
wisdom of God--emphatically contrasted with the wisdom of men and of this world (Co1 2:5-6). in a mystery--connected in construction with "we speak": We speak as dealing with a mystery; that is not something to be kept hidden, but what heretofore was so, but is now revealed. Whereas the pagan mysteries were revealed only to a chosen few, the Gospel mysteries were made known to all who would obey the truth. "If our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost" (Co2 4:3), "whom the God of this world hath blinded." Ordinarily we use "mystery" in reference to those from whom the knowledge is withheld; the apostles, in reference to those to whom it is revealed [WHATELY]. It is hidden before it is brought forward, and when it is brought forward it still remains hidden to those that are imperfect [BENGEL]. ordained--literally, "foreordained" (compare Co1 2:9), "prepared for them that love Him." before the world--rather, "before the ages" (of time), that is, from eternity. This infinitely antedates worldly wisdom in antiquity. It was before not only the wisdom of the world, but eternally before the world itself and its ages. to our glory--ours both now and hereafter, from "the Lord of glory" (Co1 2:8), who brings to naught "the princes of this world."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which none of the princes of this world knew,.... Meaning not the devils, as some have thought, who had they known what God designed to do by the death of Christ, would never have been concerned in bringing it about; nor so much the political governors of the Roman empire, particularly in Judea, as Herod and Pontius Pilate, who also were entirely ignorant of it; but rather the ecclesiastical rulers of the Jewish church state, called , "this world", in distinction from , "the world to come", or times of the Messiah; see Heb 2:5 such as the priests, Scribes, and Pharisees, the Rabbins and learned doctors. These knew nothing of the wisdom of the Gospel, or the wise counsels of God concerning salvation by Christ; they knew not the Messiah when he came, nor the prophecies concerning him; the Jews and their rulers did what they did through ignorance, and fulfilled those things they knew nothing of; see Act 3:17. for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. They would have received him, believed in him, and not put him to death: a very great character is here given of Christ, "the Lord of glory", or the glorious Jehovah; reference seems to be had to Psa 24:7 where he is called, "the King of glory", and is an argument of his true and proper deity: he is so called because possessed of all glorious perfections, and is the brightness of his Father's glory; the same honour and glory are due to him as to the Father; and the same ascriptions of glory are made to him by angels and men. This is an instance of what the ancients call a communication of idioms or properties, whereby that which belongs to one nature in Christ, is predicated of his person, as denominated from the other: thus here the crucifixion of him, which properly belongs to his human nature, and that to his body only, is spoken of his person, and that as denominated from his divine nature, "the Lord of glory"; and he being so, this rendered his crucifixion, sufferings, and death, in human nature, efficacious to answer all the purposes for which they were endured.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:7 In Paul’s writings, mystery often refers to a truth previously hidden but now revealed in the Good News of Christ and his saving work (see Rom 11:25-27; 1 Tim 3:9, 16). • before the world began: From the very beginning, it has been God’s desire to save his chosen people through Christ (see Rom 16:25-26; Eph 1:9-12; 3:3-12; Col 1:25-27) and to bring them to ultimate glory in the coming age (see Rom 5:2; 8:18-21, 29-30; 1 Thes 2:12).