1 Corinthians 8:2

2 1If anyone imagines that he knows something, 2he does not yet know as he ought to know.

1 Corinthians 8:2 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 8:2

And if any man think that he knows anything
Whoever has an opinion of himself, or is conceited with his own knowledge, and fancies that he knows more than he does; which is always the case of those that are elated with their knowledge, and treat others with contempt, and have no regard to their peace and edification:

he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know;
if he did, he would know this, that he ought to consult the peace, comfort, and edification of his brother; and therefore whatever knowledge he may fancy he has attained to, or whatever he may be capable of, and hereafter obtain, for the present he must be put down for a man that knows nothing as he should do; for he knows neither his duty to God nor man; if he knew the former, he would know the latter.

1 Corinthians 8:2 In-Context

1 Now concerningfood offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge"puffs up, but love builds up.
2 If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.
3 But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.
4 Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that "an idol has no real existence," and that "there is no God but one."
5 For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth--as indeed there are many "gods" and many "lords"--

Cross References 2

  • 1. Galatians 6:3; [1 Corinthians 3:18]
  • 2. [1 Corinthians 13:8, 9, 12; 1 Timothy 6:3, 4]
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.