1 Corinthians 6:2-3
Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life!
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Paul's question isn't about if believers will judge, but about their current readiness. If we're destined to handle cosmic judgments alongside God, how can we possibly be incapable of sorting out everyday disputes among ourselves? This highlights a massive disconnect between our future authority in Christ and our present squabbles.
Paul is addressing a serious issue within the Corinthian church: believers were taking each other to pagan civil courts to settle disputes. He reminds them that they, as God's people, are destined to rule with Christ and judge the very world, so squabbling amongst themselves over minor matters is beneath them and points to a lack of spiritual maturity. He then goes on to suggest they should appoint from within their own fellowship those best suited to mediate such disputes.
Ever imagined yourself on a 'throne'? The Apostle Paul brings up a stunning future for believers – judging the world! This isn't about petty disputes, but a grand, cosmic authority.
A Glimpse of Future Glory
Paul isn't just throwing around a wild idea; he's reminding believers of their incredible future destiny. When Jesus returns, His followers will share in His reign and authority. This includes a role in judging the world.
Paul throws out a mind-bending question: If we're destined to judge the , why are we squabbling over parking spots and petty disagreements ?
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From Trivial Cases to Cosmic Verdicts
The core of Paul's argument here is about perspective and priorities. He contrasts the immense future responsibility given to believers with their current, often small-minded, disputes.
Understand the original words
krinō · Greek Verb
To govern, discern, or render a judicial decision. Biblically, it includes the future role of believers in exercising authority alongside Christ over the world and spiritual powers.
anaxios · Greek Adjective
Unqualified or unable to render a sound judgment due to a lack of spiritual discernment or maturity.
angelos · Greek Noun
Celestial beings created by God to serve Him. The Bible indicates they are subject to the ultimate authority of Christ, and believers are described as participating in their judgment.
The Corinthian church was grappling with internal disputes and lawsuits, reflecting the cultural influences of their Roman city. Paul reminds them that their future role as judges alongside Christ transcends these petty earthly matters.
c. AD 41-50
Paul's First Missionary Journey
The Apostle Paul, along with Barnabas, travels through Asia Minor, establishing churches in cities like Antioch, Lystra, and Derbe. This period sees the early spread of Christianity beyond its Jewish origins.
c. AD 49
Council of Jerusalem
A pivotal meeting where church leaders, including Paul and Peter, decide that Gentile believers do not need to follow all Mosaic Law. This broadens the church's reach and defines its identity.
c. AD 50-52
Paul's Second Missionary Journey
Paul visits Corinth and spends about 18 months there, founding the church in this major Roman city. He faces opposition but establishes a strong community.
c. AD 53-57
Paul's Third Missionary Journey
During his time in Ephesus, Paul writes letters to churches he has established, including the church in Corinth, addressing their various issues.
c. AD 55— this verse
Paul writes 1 Corinthians
Paul pens this letter from Ephesus in response to reports from Chloe's household and a letter from the Corinthian church itself, addressing divisions, immorality, and doctrinal issues.
c. AD 60-62
Paul's Imprisonment in Rome
While under house arrest in Rome, Paul continues to write letters, including those to the Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, often reflecting on the nature of the church and its mission.
This verse immediately follows and elaborates on the same point, reminding believers that they will even judge angels, highlighting the profound authority given to them.
Daniel 7:22This Old Testament passage speaks of the saints of the Most High receiving dominion and possessing the kingdom, echoing the future reign and judgment described in 1 Corinthians.
Revelation 20:4This book describes those who have been given authority to judge alongside Christ, directly fulfilling the promise that believers will participate in God's final judgment of the world.
Matthew 19:28Jesus tells his disciples they will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel, which sets a precedent for believers sharing in divine judgment authority.
Paul's question isn't about if believers will judge, but about their current readiness. If we're destined to handle cosmic judgments alongside God, how can we possibly be incapable of sorting out everyday disputes among ourselves? This highlights a massive disconnect between our future authority in Christ and our present squabbles.
Paul is addressing a serious issue within the Corinthian church: believers were taking each other to pagan civil courts to settle disputes. He reminds them that they, as God's people, are destined to rule with Christ and judge the very world, so squabbling amongst themselves over minor matters is beneath them and points to a lack of spiritual maturity. He then goes on to suggest they should appoint from within their own fellowship those best suited to mediate such disputes.
Paul is addressing a serious issue within the Corinthian church: believers were taking each other to pagan civil courts to settle disputes. He reminds them that they, as God's people, are destined to rule with Christ and judge the very world, so squabbling amongst themselves over minor matters is beneath them and points to a lack of spiritual maturity. He then goes on to suggest they should appoint from within their own fellowship those best suited to mediate such disputes.
"Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life!" — Paul's question isn't about if believers will judge, but about their current readiness. If we're destined to handle cosmic judgments alongside God, how can we possibly be incapable of sorting out e…
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