1 Corinthians 1:28

He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are,

Study Bible

He chose
The phrase "He chose" underscores the divine initiative and sovereignty of God in the process of selection. The Greek word used here is "ἐξελέξατο" (exelexato), which implies a deliberate and purposeful choice. This reflects the biblical theme that God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9), and His choices often defy human expectations. In a historical context, this choice is reminiscent of God’s selection of Israel, a small and seemingly insignificant nation, to be His people (Deuteronomy 7:7-8).

the lowly and despised things of the world
This phrase highlights God’s preference for using what the world considers insignificant or contemptible. The Greek words "τὰ ἀγενῆ" (ta agene) and "τὰ ἐξουθενημένα" (ta exouthenēmena) refer to things that are without noble birth or are looked down upon. Historically, this reflects the early Christian community, which was largely composed of the poor and marginalized. Scripturally, it echoes the Beatitudes, where Jesus blesses the poor in spirit and those who are persecuted (Matthew 5:3-12).

and the things that are not
This phrase, "τὰ μὴ ὄντα" (ta mē onta), refers to things that are considered non-existent or of no account by worldly standards. It emphasizes the paradox of God’s kingdom, where the last shall be first (Matthew 20:16). In a broader theological context, it points to God’s ability to create ex nihilo, or out of nothing, as seen in the creation narrative (Genesis 1).

to nullify the things that are
The purpose of God’s choice is "to nullify" or "καταργήσῃ" (katargēsē), meaning to render ineffective or bring to nothing. This demonstrates God’s power to overturn human wisdom and strength. Historically, this was evident in the spread of Christianity, which thrived despite persecution and opposition from powerful empires. Scripturally, it aligns with the theme of God using the weak to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27), showcasing His glory and wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth, a city known for its diversity and moral challenges.

2. The Church in Corinth
A Christian community in a cosmopolitan city, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and spiritual pride.

3. God's Choice
The divine action of choosing what is considered insignificant by worldly standards to accomplish His purposes.

4. The World
Refers to the prevailing cultural and societal norms that often value power, status, and wealth.

5. The Lowly and Despised
Those whom society overlooks or devalues, yet whom God chooses to demonstrate His power and wisdom.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God often chooses what the world deems insignificant to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating His sovereignty and wisdom.

Value in Humility
Believers are called to embrace humility, recognizing that God values the heart over external status or achievements.

Redefining Success
Success in God's kingdom is not measured by worldly standards but by faithfulness and obedience to His calling.

Encouragement for the Overlooked
Those who feel overlooked or undervalued can find encouragement in knowing that God sees and chooses them for His purposes.

Challenge to Worldly Values
Christians are challenged to reject societal norms that prioritize power and prestige, instead embracing God's upside-down kingdom values.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's choice of the lowly and despised challenge your personal view of success and significance?

2. In what ways can you identify with the "lowly and despised" in your own life or community, and how does this verse offer encouragement?

3. How can the example of Christ's humility in Philippians 2:5-8 inspire you to live differently in a world that values power and status?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt overlooked or undervalued. How might God's perspective in 1 Corinthians 1:28 change your view of that experience?

5. How can you actively challenge worldly values in your daily life and embrace the values of God's kingdom as described in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 2:5
This verse highlights God's choice of the poor in the world to be rich in faith, emphasizing the theme of God's preference for the humble.

Matthew 5:3-12
The Beatitudes, where Jesus blesses the poor in spirit and those who are persecuted, align with the idea of God valuing the lowly.

1 Samuel 16:7
God's choice of David, the youngest and least likely, as king, illustrates the principle of God looking at the heart rather than outward appearances.

Philippians 2:5-8
Christ's humility and His choice to take on the form of a servant reflect the divine preference for humility over worldly power.

Isaiah 53:2-3
The prophecy of the suffering servant, who was despised and rejected, yet chosen by God for a redemptive purpose.