1 Corinthians 4:18

Study note

Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian believers to confront their growing pride while his physical visit is delayed. He notes their arrogance stems from the false presumption that his absence removes his authority to correct them.

The words — ἐφυσιώθησαν (ephusiōthēsan) literally means "were puffed up," describing their inflated spiritual self-assessment. ὡς μὴ (hōs mē) translates as "as if not," underscoring their reckless assumption regarding Paul's impending arrival.

The thread — This conflict between congregational pride and apostolic correction runs through 1 Corinthians 4:6 and 1 Corinthians 5:2. Paul immediately follows the charge with a warning that he will soon verify both their claims and their spiritual power in 1 Corinthians 4:19.

Why it lands — The verse requires readers to reject self-exalting attitudes that dismiss necessary oversight. It demands recognition that spiritual accountability and divine judgment operate independently of physical presence.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.