New Testament
1 Corinthians 1:28
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God chose what is low and looked down on in this world — things considered nothing at all — to overthrow what the world considers something.
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And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
What 1 Corinthians 1:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful truth about how God operates. He often chooses what the world overlooks or deems unimportant. This includes people and things that society might dismiss as worthless. By selecting these 'lowly' things, God demonstrates His ability to turn the tables on what we think is valuable. The world often prizes status, wealth, and power, but God shows that true strength comes from humility and the unexpected. This choice reveals a deeper wisdom that challenges our perceptions. It reminds us that greatness in God's eyes is not about being recognized or celebrated by others. Instead, it’s about being faithful and open to His purpose, even when it seems insignificant. This verse encourages us to embrace our own lowly moments, knowing that God can use them for something extraordinary. It’s a call to see value in ourselves and others, regardless of societal standards, and to trust in God’s plan for our lives, which often defies human expectations and logic.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 1:28 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider areas where you feel overlooked or undervalued. Remember that God can use these moments for His greater purpose. Embrace your uniqueness and trust that your worth is not defined by the world’s standards. Seek to uplift others who may feel the same way, showing them their inherent value in God’s eyes. This can create a supportive community where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
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Keep studying 1 Corinthians 1:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 1:28 mean?
1 Corinthians 1:28 means that God chooses people and things that the world often overlooks or considers unimportant. This choice highlights God's power to use what seems weak or insignificant to achieve great purposes.
What is the significance of 'base things' in 1 Corinthians 1:28?
The term 'base things' refers to those that are lowly or despised by society. In this verse, it emphasizes how God values what the world dismisses, showing that true worth comes from His perspective, not human standards.
How does 1 Corinthians 1:28 relate to humility?
1 Corinthians 1:28 relates to humility by illustrating that God often works through those who are humble or overlooked. It teaches that greatness in God's eyes is not about status or recognition but about being open to His purpose.
How can I apply 1 Corinthians 1:28 in my life?
You can apply 1 Corinthians 1:28 by recognizing your own worth, even if you feel overlooked. Embrace your unique qualities and uplift others who may feel undervalued, fostering a community that appreciates everyone's contributions.
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