1 Corinthians 13:11
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Paul isn't just talking about growing up; he's highlighting how our understanding of spiritual things matures. The shift from "childish ways" to "man's ways" points to moving beyond superficial, immature spiritual perspectives to a deeper, more profound grasp of God's truth. This suggests that spiritual growth involves a conscious shedding of simplistic, self-centered thinking for a more mature, love-centered viewpoint.
When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is explaining the superiority of love by comparing spiritual gifts to childhood immaturity. He uses the analogy of growing up to illustrate how the temporary, partial knowledge we have now through spiritual gifts will be surpassed by complete understanding when we are face-to-face with God. This sets the stage for his famous declaration that love is the "most excellent way" and will endure forever.
Ever look back at old opinions or behaviors and cringe a little? That's natural as we grow. Paul uses a powerful analogy here to talk about spiritual growth.
Paul compares spiritual development to the natural transition from childhood to adulthood.
Spoke Like a Child
This refers to immature communication – perhaps hasty, unfiltered, or easily swayed opinions. Think of a child who blurts out whatever comes to mind without considering the impact.
Thought Like a Child
This points to a limited understanding, a narrow perspective. A child's world is small; their understanding of complex issues is basic. Spiritually, this means having a shallow grasp of God's truth.
Reasoned Like a Child
This is about flawed logic or simplistic problem-solving. Children might rely on superstition, immediate gratification, or unproven beliefs. Mature reasoning, on the other hand, is grounded in deeper understanding and wisdom.
Paul's point is that followers of Christ are meant to move beyond these childish approaches to faith and life. The maturity he describes isn't just about age; it's about a transformation in how we speak, think, and understand the world through God's eyes.
Paul doesn't just describe the shift; he declares it happened. What does it mean to 'give up childish ways' and step into something more?
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The phrase 'When I became a man, I gave up childish ways' isn't just a passive observation; it's an active choice and a description of spiritual growth in action.
The Decision to Grow
Becoming 'a man' in this context signifies reaching spiritual maturity, a state of intentional growth and development. It implies a conscious decision to move beyond immature patterns.
Letting Go is Key
'Gave up' (or 'put away') signifies a deliberate act of discarding or renouncing. It's not just about acquiring new knowledge, but actively ceasing to operate in old, unhelpful ways. This can be difficult, as our old habits of thinking and speaking can feel comfortable.
The Result: Deeper Understanding
This maturity allows for a more profound engagement with God's Word and His will. It prepares believers to better understand and practice the love described in the preceding verses of 1 Corinthians 13 – a love that is patient, kind, and endures all things.
Understand the original words
nēpios · Greek Noun/Adjective
Refers to the state of being an infant or minor, characterized by immaturity, lack of understanding, and dependency. In a spiritual sense, it often represents the early, undeveloped stages of Christian growth.
anēr · Greek Noun
The state of being an adult; in a biblical context, it implies maturity, completeness, and spiritual stability as opposed to the instability of infancy.
katargeō · Greek Verb
To cease, abolish, or put away; it signifies a decisive action to abandon former states or behaviors in favor of a new, mature reality.
This passage directly follows chapter 13, continuing Paul's discussion on spiritual maturity and calling out believers who are still acting like infants in Christ, unable to handle solid spiritual food.
Ephesians 4:13-14Paul describes the goal of spiritual ministry as bringing believers to maturity, no longer tossed around by every wind of false teaching, mirroring the idea of moving beyond immature ways of thinking and believing.
Hebrews 5:12-14The author contrasts those who are immature and need milk with those who are mature and can handle solid food, highlighting the process of growth and the ability to discern good from evil through practice.
Romans 12:2This verse calls believers to be transformed by the renewal of their minds, a key aspect of spiritual maturity that involves changing how we think and reason, moving away from old, unrenewed patterns.
Paul isn't just talking about growing up; he's highlighting how our understanding of spiritual things matures. The shift from "childish ways" to "man's ways" points to moving beyond superficial, immature spiritual perspectives to a deeper, more profound grasp of God's truth. This suggests that spiritual growth involves a conscious shedding of simplistic, self-centered thinking for a more mature, love-centered viewpoint.
Paul is explaining the superiority of love by comparing spiritual gifts to childhood immaturity. He uses the analogy of growing up to illustrate how the temporary, partial knowledge we have now through spiritual gifts will be surpassed by complete understanding when we are face-to-face with God. This sets the stage for his famous declaration that love is the "most excellent way" and will endure forever.
Paul is explaining the superiority of love by comparing spiritual gifts to childhood immaturity. He uses the analogy of growing up to illustrate how the temporary, partial knowledge we have now through spiritual gifts will be surpassed by complete understanding when we are face-to-face with God. This sets the stage for his famous declaration that love is the "most excellent way" and will endure forever.
"When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways." — Paul isn't just talking about growing up; he's highlighting how our understanding of spiritual things matures. The shift from "childish ways" to "man's ways" points to moving beyond superficial, im…
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Last reviewed October 2026
