1 Corinthians 1:28

“And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are.”

Context:The apostle Paul wrote the book of 1 Corinthians to address various issues and divisions within the Corinthian church. In this particular verse, Paul is discussing God’s wisdom and the way He works in the world.

“Base things of the world”: The term “base things” refers to lowly, insignificant, or weak things in the world. It includes individuals who are considered low in social status or those who lack worldly influence.

“Things which are despised”: These are things or people who are looked down upon, rejected, or considered unimportant by society.

“Hath God chosen”: This phrase emphasizes God’s sovereign choice in selecting certain individuals or things for His purposes. It highlights that God’s selection criteria often differs from worldly standards.

“Things which are not”: This phrase refers to things or people who do not possess any apparent worth or significance in the world’s eyes. It implies that God often chooses what appears insignificant to accomplish His plans.

“To bring to nought things that are”: God’s intention in choosing the base and despised things is to nullify or bring to nothing the things that are considered significant or influential in the world. He often uses the weak to overcome the strong, demonstrating His power and wisdom.

Key lessons from 1 Corinthians 1:28:

• a) God’s ways are different from the world’s ways: This verse reminds us that God’s criteria for selection and His view of significance differ from worldly standards. He often chooses the weak, despised, and seemingly insignificant to accomplish His purposes.
• b) God’s power is displayed through unlikely vessels: God delights in using those who are considered weak or lowly to bring about His plans. He can work through anyone, regardless of their social status, talents, or abilities.
• c) Humility and dependence on God: This verse teaches us the importance of humility before God. We should recognize our own weaknesses and limitations, acknowledging that it is God’s power working through us that brings about great things.
• d) Trusting in God’s wisdom: As believers, we should trust in God’s wisdom and His ability to bring about His purposes, even when they seem contrary to human reasoning. God’s ways are higher than ours, and He knows how to accomplish His will.

Overall, 1 Corinthians 1:28 emphasizes God’s sovereignty, His use of the weak and despised, and the need for humility and trust in His wisdom. It encourages us to view ourselves and others through God’s eyes rather than the world’s standards.