1 Corinthians 14:20
“Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.”
Context:The book of 1 Corinthians was written by the apostle Paul to address various issues and challenges faced by the Corinthian church. In chapter 14, Paul focuses on the importance of order and edification in the exercise of spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of speaking in tongues and the gift of prophecy.
“Brethren, be not children in understanding”
Paul addresses the believers in Corinth as brethren, emphasizing their common bond as members of the body of Christ. Here, he urges them not to be childish or immature in their understanding. Paul encourages the Corinthian believers to grow in their knowledge and discernment of spiritual matters, moving beyond a naive or simplistic approach to their faith.
“Howbeit in malice be ye children”
While Paul instructs the Corinthians to be mature in their understanding, he contrasts this by urging them to be like children in the area of malice. In this context, “malice” refers to ill-will, wickedness, or an inclination towards evil. Paul encourages the believers to maintain an innocence or purity of heart, free from such malicious intentions. This serves as a reminder that Christians should have a childlike simplicity and sincerity in their attitudes, not harboring ill intentions or seeking to harm others.
“But in understanding be men”
Paul concludes the verse by emphasizing the importance of maturity in understanding. He encourages the Corinthian believers to be grown men, signifying a developed spiritual discernment and wisdom. Paul encourages them to seek after deeper understanding of spiritual truths and to exercise discernment in their actions and decisions. The phrase “be men” implies a call to spiritual maturity, demonstrating the qualities of wisdom, knowledge, and discernment.
