1 Corinthians 13:11
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
1 Corinthians 13:11 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to the “love chapter,” where the apostle Paul urges the Corinthian church to value love above spiritual gifts. In the preceding verse, Paul has said that when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away (1 Corinthians 13:10). Here he illustrates that truth with the picture of growing from childhood to adulthood.
Childhood: Paul draws a parallel between spiritual maturity and the process of growing up. He compares the characteristics of childhood with those of spiritual immaturity.
Childish behaviour: Paul mentions that when he was a child, he spoke, understood, and thought like a child. This refers to the limited understanding and perspective that children typically have. They often lack wisdom, discernment, and the ability to see things from a broader perspective.
Spiritual maturity: The key message of this verse is the importance of putting away childish things and growing into spiritual maturity. As Christians, we are called to progress in our faith, leaving behind immature and self-centred behaviour.
Putting away childish things: This phrase implies a deliberate choice and action. It involves recognising and letting go of behaviours, attitudes, and thought patterns that hinder spiritual growth. Some examples of childish behaviour include selfishness, jealousy, impatience, and an inability to handle conflicts with grace and forgiveness.
The call to maturity: Just as physical maturity brings about changes in speech, understanding, and thought, spiritual maturity should also result in a transformation of our behaviour and mindset. We are called to develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word, to communicate with wisdom and love, and to think in alignment with God’s truth.
Meaning
The Greek words Paul uses reinforce the contrast: “nēpios” means an infant or child, while “anēr” means a man or adult. The change from childhood to adulthood is natural and expected, and Paul applies that same expectation to the believer’s spiritual life. The “childish things” are not necessarily evil; they are incomplete and temporary. They are to be replaced by the enduring quality of love, which Paul has already described as the greatest gift (1 Corinthians 13:13).
Application
– Pursue spiritual maturity: Reflect on your own spiritual growth. Are there areas where you still display childish behaviour or thinking? Pray for God’s help and guidance to put away those things and grow in maturity.
– Seek wisdom and understanding: Study God’s Word regularly to gain a deeper understanding of His truth. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in discerning right from wrong and making wise choices.
– Cultivate love: Remember that the context of this verse is the supremacy of love. As you grow in maturity, focus on developing a Christ-like love for others, putting their needs before your own and seeking reconciliation and unity.
