Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 8:3
But the one who loves God is known by God.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian congregation during a dispute over food sacrificed to idols, placing this statement immediately after his correction of prideful spiritual knowledge in verse 2.
The words — The verb ἀγαπᾷ (agapa) translates to "loves," while ἔγνωσται (egnōstai) is a passive form of "has known," grammatically positioning God as the active subject who recognizes the believer.
The thread — This dynamic of divine recognition following human devotion runs through Exodus 33:17, Revelation 3:8, and Nahum 1:7, where God’s knowing or caring is explicitly linked to favor, trust, or observed deeds.
Why it lands — The text asserts that standing before God is determined by His initiative to recognize those who love Him, requiring readers to abandon self-validated knowledge and focus on relational devotion instead.
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.
The Greek words
King James Version
But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
Cross-references
- Revelation 3:8 I know your deeds. Behold, I have placed before you an open door, which no one can shut. I know that you have only a little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name.
- Exodus 33:17 So the LORD said to Moses, “I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.”
- Nahum 1:7 The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.
- 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.”
- 1 Corinthians 2:9 Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.”
- Galatians 4:9 But now that you know God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you are turning back to those weak and worthless principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?
- Revelation 2:19 I know your deeds—your love, your faith, your service, your perseverance—and your latest deeds are greater than your first.
- James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
- Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
- John 10:14 I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me,