1 Corinthians 13:11

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways.

Study Bible

When I was a child
The phrase "When I was a child" introduces a metaphorical comparison between spiritual immaturity and maturity. In the Greek, the word for "child" is "νήπιος" (nēpios), which denotes an infant or a young child, emphasizing a stage of development characterized by limited understanding and dependency. Historically, children in ancient cultures were seen as incomplete adults, lacking the wisdom and experience necessary for full participation in society. Spiritually, this reflects the early stages of a believer's journey, where understanding and faith are still developing.

I talked like a child
The verb "talked" in Greek is "ἐλάλουν" (elaloun), which means to speak or to utter sounds. This suggests a form of communication that is simple and unrefined, much like the babbling of a young child. In a spiritual context, it represents the early expressions of faith and understanding, which may lack depth and maturity. The Apostle Paul uses this imagery to remind believers of the importance of growing in their spiritual communication and expression.

I thought like a child
The word "thought" is translated from the Greek "ἐφρόνουν" (ephronoun), which involves the process of thinking or considering. This reflects a child's limited cognitive abilities and understanding. In the spiritual realm, it signifies the initial, often simplistic, ways in which a believer might perceive and interpret spiritual truths. The historical context of Corinth, a city known for its intellectual pursuits, underscores the need for believers to move beyond superficial understanding to deeper spiritual insight.

I reasoned like a child
"Reasoned" comes from the Greek "ἐλογιζόμην" (elogizomēn), meaning to reckon or to calculate. This implies a form of reasoning that is immature and undeveloped. In the context of faith, it highlights the early stages of spiritual reasoning, where believers may struggle to fully grasp the complexities of God's wisdom and plan. The historical backdrop of Corinth, with its emphasis on rhetoric and philosophy, serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual discernment and maturity.

When I became a man
The transition "When I became a man" marks a significant shift from immaturity to maturity. The Greek word for "man" is "ἀνήρ" (anēr), indicating an adult male who has reached full development. This transformation symbolizes the believer's journey towards spiritual maturity, where understanding, faith, and conduct align more closely with the teachings of Christ. In the early church, this maturity was essential for leadership and effective ministry.

I set aside childish ways
The phrase "I set aside" is derived from the Greek "κατήργηκα" (katērgēka), meaning to abolish or to render inactive. This denotes a deliberate and conscious decision to leave behind immature behaviors and thoughts. "Childish ways" refers to the earlier mentioned speech, thought, and reasoning of a child. In a spiritual sense, this signifies the believer's commitment to grow in faith, wisdom, and understanding, embracing the fullness of life in Christ. The historical context of the Corinthian church, with its struggles with immaturity and division, underscores the importance of this transformation for the health and unity of the body of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, providing guidance on spiritual maturity and love.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and moral challenges, which Paul addresses in his letters.

3. The Corinthian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and spiritual immaturity.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Maturity
Paul emphasizes the importance of growing in faith and understanding, moving beyond immature ways of thinking and behaving.

Transformation in Christ
The transition from childhood to adulthood in faith signifies a transformation that should be evident in our actions and thoughts.

Setting Aside Childish Ways
Believers are called to examine their lives for areas where immaturity persists and to actively pursue growth and maturity in Christ.

The Role of Love in Maturity
In the context of 1 Corinthians 13, love is the ultimate expression of spiritual maturity, guiding our actions and interactions with others.

Continuous Growth
Spiritual maturity is a lifelong journey, requiring continual learning, reflection, and application of God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some "childish ways" in your spiritual life that you need to set aside to grow in maturity?

2. How does the concept of spiritual maturity in 1 Corinthians 13:11 relate to the teachings in Ephesians 4:14-15?

3. In what ways can love be a measure of spiritual maturity in your daily interactions?

4. How can you actively pursue spiritual growth and transformation in your life, as Paul describes?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a significant step in spiritual maturity. What prompted this growth, and how did it change your perspective or actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 4:14-15
Paul speaks about growing into maturity in Christ, contrasting spiritual infancy with maturity.

Hebrews 5:12-14
The author discusses the need to move beyond elementary teachings and grow into maturity, similar to setting aside childish ways.

1 Peter 2:2
Peter encourages believers to crave pure spiritual milk to grow up in their salvation, highlighting the process of spiritual growth.