1 Corinthians 2:13-14 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Ghost teaches… To teach, to enlighten, and to illuminate, have equivalent meanings. I. ITS NEED. The natural condition of the mind is spiritual darkness: hence illumination is necessary to the apprehension of spiritual things (Luke 11:36; 1 Corinthians 2:9-14; Ephesians 1:18). II. ITS AUTHOR. It is ascribed to each person of the Trinity. 1. God (2 Corinthians 4:6). 2. The Son (John 1:9; 1 Corinthians 4:5). 3. The Holy Spirit (John 14:26). III. ITS INSTRUMENT. The revealed Word of God (Psalm 119:105). IV. ITS AGENCY. The ministry of reconciliation. Preaching may awake men to their need of spiritual illumination (Ephesians 3:9). V. HOW OBTAINED. 1. By the careful reading of the Word. 2. By prayer (Psalm 119:18). (L. O. Thompson.) Parallel Verses KJV: Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. |
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