1 Corinthians 4 20

1 Corinthians 4:20 kjv

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

1 Corinthians 4:20 nkjv

For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.

1 Corinthians 4:20 niv

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.

1 Corinthians 4:20 esv

For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.

1 Corinthians 4:20 nlt

For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God's power.

1 Corinthians 4 verses

1 Corinthians 4 20 Meaning

The kingdom of God is not found in abstract speech or idle discussions, but in the tangible demonstration of power and living reality. It is characterized by effective action and genuine, impactful existence.

1 Corinthians 4 20 Context

This verse is part of Paul's concluding remarks in chapter 4 of 1 Corinthians, addressing divisions and pride within the Corinthian church. The Corinthian believers were taking sides, exalting human leaders like Apollos or Paul himself, essentially forming factions based on eloquent speech and perceived wisdom. Paul contrasts the superficial displays of worldly wisdom with the genuine, transformative power of God’s kingdom. He previously highlighted how his own ministry was not in persuasive words of wisdom but in a demonstration of the Spirit and power (1 Cor 2:4-5). He rebuked them for their arrogance and lack of proper humility and self-discipline. Chapter 4 culminates in this strong statement that authentic spiritual reality and the power of God's reign are demonstrated through substance, not just rhetoric.

1 Corinthians 4 20 Word Analysis

• “Toi” (τοί): (Interjection/Particle) Used for emphasis, meaning "indeed," "certainly," or "surely." It serves to underscore the following statement.
• “gar” (γάρ): (Conjunction) Meaning "for" or "because." It indicates a reason or explanation for a previous statement or attitude.
• “ē basileia” (ἡ βασιλεία):
  • “ē” (ἡ): (Article) The definite article "the."
  • “basileia” (βασιλεία): Kingdom. Refers to sovereignty, rule, dominion, reign, or a realm over which a king rules. In a New Testament context, it signifies the reign and rule of God, often experienced on earth as it is in heaven, culminating in Christ's return.
• “tou” (τοῦ): (Article) The definite article "of."
• “theou” (θεοῦ): (Noun) Of God. The genitive case indicates possession or origin.
• “ouk” (οὐκ): (Adverb) Not. A negative particle.
• “en” (ἐν): (Preposition) In, within, by, with. Indicates the sphere or means.
• “logō” (λόγῳ): (Noun) Word, speech, saying, utterance. In the dative case, signifying the realm or manner. Refers to spoken language, argumentation, or teaching.
• “all’ ” (ἀλλ’): (Conjunction) But, rather. Used to contrast. It is the apocopated form of "alla" before a vowel.
• “en” (ἐν): (Preposition) In, within, by, with.
• “dynamei” (δυνάμει): (Noun) Power, strength, ability, might. The dative case indicates the sphere or means. It refers to inherent force, capacity for effect, or miraculous ability.

Word-group analysis:

• “ē basileia tou theou ouk en logō”: The kingdom of God is not in word. This phrase directly contrasts the presence or nature of God's kingdom with mere verbal expression or eloquent speech. It criticizes reliance on rhetoric or verbal pronouncements as the essence of God's reign.
• “all’ en dynamei”: but in power. This segment asserts that the true characteristic or manifestation of God's kingdom lies in active power. This power is not necessarily political or military, but the active, transformative power of the Holy Spirit and divine enablement.

1 Corinthians 4 20 Bonus Section

The emphasis on "power" (dynamis) in contrast to "word" (logos) is a recurring theme for Paul, particularly in his Corinthian correspondence. He recognized the danger of the Corinthian church being swayed by eloquent speakers who lacked genuine spiritual substance. This verse acts as a critical corrective, redirecting their attention from superficial charisma to the demonstrable presence and operation of God. The power being referred to is intrinsically linked to the Holy Spirit’s indwelling and enablement, as highlighted in his earlier teachings (1 Cor 2:4-5; 1 Thess 1:5). It signifies the active, transformative force of God’s reign, impacting lives and situations directly, as opposed to empty verbal claims. The spiritual maturity of believers is to be judged not by their verbal dexterity but by the fruit of the Spirit and the demonstration of God's power in their lives and ministries.

1 Corinthians 4 20 Commentary

This verse powerfully refutes any notion that the Christian faith is about eloquent speaking or intellectual arguments alone. Paul emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not a matter of persuasive rhetoric or theoretical theology. Its essence is demonstrated through tangible spiritual power – the effective working of God in lives and communities. This power is evident in transformed lives, the manifestation of the Holy Spirit, miraculous occurrences, and the bold proclamation of the Gospel with conviction. It's about a present reality and operational force, not just theological discourse or ritual. The Corinthians, enamored with human wisdom and oratorical skills, needed this correction to focus on the demonstrable power of God at work through His people.

• Practical application: Focusing on doing God’s work with the Holy Spirit’s enablement, rather than just talking about it. Living out faith with impactful, Christ-like actions that reveal God's presence.