New Testament
1 Corinthians 8:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Now concerning food offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes people proud, but charity builds up.
Compare translations
Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
What 1 Corinthians 8:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul addresses the issue of food that has been sacrificed to idols. He acknowledges that everyone has some level of understanding about this topic. However, he warns that simply having knowledge can lead to arrogance. Instead of letting knowledge make us proud, we should focus on love, which truly strengthens and supports one another. Love is what truly matters in our relationships and interactions. It’s not enough to know something; we must also act with kindness and compassion. This means that our understanding should lead us to build each other up rather than tear each other down. In essence, Paul is reminding us that love is more important than knowledge, and it is through love that we can create a positive and supportive community. Knowledge can be a double-edged sword, but love is the foundation that holds us together. Let’s strive to be people who prioritize love over pride, ensuring that our actions reflect our understanding in a way that uplifts others.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 8:1 to your life
Consider how you use your knowledge in daily life. Are you sharing it in a way that helps others, or does it sometimes make you feel superior? Focus on showing love and kindness, ensuring that your understanding leads to positive actions that uplift those around you. Remember, love is the true measure of strength in our relationships and communities.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Corinthians 8:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Corinthians 8:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 8:1 mean?
1 Corinthians 8:1 addresses the issue of food offered to idols, emphasizing that while knowledge is common, it can lead to pride. Paul encourages believers to prioritize love over knowledge, as love builds up and strengthens relationships.
What is the meaning of knowledge puffeth up in 1 Corinthians 8:1?
The phrase 'knowledge puffeth up' means that having knowledge can lead to arrogance or pride. Paul warns that simply knowing something can make a person feel superior, which is not beneficial to the community.
How does 1 Corinthians 8:1 apply to daily life?
In daily life, this verse encourages individuals to use their knowledge to uplift others rather than to feel superior. It reminds us to act with kindness and compassion, ensuring our understanding leads to positive actions.
What is the main theme of 1 Corinthians 8:1?
The main theme of 1 Corinthians 8:1 is the contrast between knowledge and love. It emphasizes that while knowledge can lead to pride, love is essential for building a supportive and caring community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.