1 Corinthians 13:12

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV)

Context

The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address divisions and various issues within the Corinthian church. In chapter 13, he emphasizes the supremacy of love over spiritual gifts, which are temporary. This verse is the climax of that chapter, contrasting our present, limited perception with the future, perfect knowledge we will have in God’s presence.

Meaning

“For now we see through a glass, darkly” uses the imagery of looking through a mirror or a dim window made of semi-transparent materials, which hinders clear vision. This conveys that our current understanding of spiritual truths and God’s plans is incomplete and imperfect. The Greek word for “know” here is ginosko, indicating a partial, experiential knowledge.

“But then face to face” implies direct, intimate, and unmediated knowledge. Paul suggests that in the future, believers will have a complete and unobstructed understanding of spiritual truths, seeing them directly without any barriers.

“Now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” highlights the contrast between our present imperfect knowledge and the future perfect knowledge we will have in God’s presence. This future knowledge is not just about facts but about being fully known by God, which is the basis of our hope.

Biblical connections

The immediate context (1 Corinthians 13:10-13) shows that the partial things will be done away with when perfection arrives, and that love is the greatest of the abiding virtues. The verse points to the eschatological hope of the believer: the perfection that comes when “that which is perfect is come” (v. 10), when faith and hope give way to the full realization of love.

Application

This verse reminds us that our understanding of spiritual matters in the present is limited. We should approach our faith with humility, acknowledging that we do not have all the answers and that our knowledge is partial. This hope should produce humility about our current understanding and a steadfast reliance on love, which endures.

The future hope of knowing fully offers assurance that our current limitations will be overcome. In the future, when we are in the presence of God, we will have a complete understanding of His ways. This should encourage us to persevere in our faith, knowing that there is a greater revelation awaiting us.

The context of this verse within the “love chapter” underscores the central role of love. While our knowledge may be incomplete, love remains essential and enduring. Love should guide our interactions with others, our exercise of spiritual gifts, and our pursuit of God.

This verse points to the future when we will know fully, even as we are known. In Christ, we find the ultimate revelation of God’s love and truth. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we can experience a deeper understanding of His ways and purposes.

Reflection

Our present perception is like a dim reflection, but the day is coming when we will see clearly. Until then, we live by faith, grounded in the love that never fails.