1 Corinthians 2:16
New International Version
for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

New Living Translation
For, “Who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?” But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.

English Standard Version
“For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

Berean Standard Bible
“For who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

Berean Literal Bible
"For who has known the mind of the Lord? Who will instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

King James Bible
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

New King James Version
For “who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

New American Standard Bible
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ.

NASB 1995
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ.

NASB 1977
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE SHOULD INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ.

Legacy Standard Bible
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL DIRECT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ.

Amplified Bible
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND and PURPOSES OF THE LORD, SO AS TO INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes].

Christian Standard Bible
For who has known the Lord’s mind, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
For who has known the Lord’s mind, that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.

American Standard Version
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he should instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Contemporary English Version
The Scriptures ask, "Has anyone ever known the thoughts of the Lord or given him advice?" But we understand what Christ is thinking.

English Revised Version
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he should instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
"Who has known the mind of the Lord so that he can teach him?" However, we have the mind of Christ.

Good News Translation
As the scripture says, "Who knows the mind of the Lord? Who is able to give him advice?" We, however, have the mind of Christ.

International Standard Version
For "Who has known the mind of the Lord so that he can advise him?" However, we have the mind of the Messiah.

Majority Standard Bible
?For who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to instruct Him?? But we have the mind of Christ.

NET Bible
For who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to advise him? But we have the mind of Christ.

New Heart English Bible
For "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Who will instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

Webster's Bible Translation
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Weymouth New Testament
For who has penetrated the mind of the Lord, and will instruct Him? But *we* have the mind of Christ.

World English Bible
“For who has known the mind of the Lord that he should instruct him?” But we have Christ’s mind.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
for who knew the mind of the LORD that he will instruct Him? And we have the mind of Christ.

Berean Literal Bible
"For who has known the mind of the Lord? Who will instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

Young's Literal Translation
for who did know the mind of the Lord that he shall instruct Him? and we -- we have the mind of Christ.

Smith's Literal Translation
For who knew the mind of the Lord, who shall instruct him And we have the mind of Christ.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that we may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Catholic Public Domain Version
For who has known the mind of the Lord, so that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

New American Bible
For “who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to counsel him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

New Revised Standard Version
“For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
For who knows the mind of the LORD, that he may teach it? But we have the perception of Christ.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
For who has known the mind of THE LORD JEHOVAH that he may teach him? But we do have the mind of The Messiah.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Godbey New Testament
For who knows the mind of the Lord, who shall give him counsel? But we have the mind of Christ.

Haweis New Testament
For who hath known the mind of the Lord? who will instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Mace New Testament
for how can he, that does not know the mind of the Lord, instruct another? but as for us, we are acquainted with the mind of the Lord.

Weymouth New Testament
For who has penetrated the mind of the Lord, and will instruct Him? But *we* have the mind of Christ.

Worrell New Testament
For who knew the mind of the Lord, that he should instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Worsley New Testament
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Spiritual Wisdom
15The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment. 16“For who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

Cross References
Isaiah 40:13
Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, or informed Him as His counselor?

Romans 11:34
“Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor?”

Philippians 2:5
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus:

John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you.

Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

Ephesians 4:23
to be renewed in the spirit of your minds;

Romans 8:27
And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

1 John 2:20
You, however, have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.

1 John 2:27
And as for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But just as His true and genuine anointing teaches you about all things, so remain in Him as you have been taught.

Jeremiah 23:18
But which of them has stood in the council of the LORD to see and hear His word? Who has given heed to His word and obeyed it?

Job 15:8
Do you listen in on the council of God or limit wisdom to yourself?

Proverbs 1:23
If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; / in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Isaiah 55:8-9
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. / “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

Jeremiah 9:24
But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD.


Treasury of Scripture

For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

who.

Job 15:8
Hast thou heard the secret of God? and dost thou restrain wisdom to thyself?

Job 22:2
Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself?

Job 40:2
Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.

may.

John 15:15
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

John 16:13-16
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come…

John 17:6-8
I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word…

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Christ Christ's Instruct Mind Penetrated Teacher
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Christ Christ's Instruct Mind Penetrated Teacher
1 Corinthians 2
1. Paul declares that his preaching,
4. though it bring not excellence of speech, or of human wisdom,
5. yet consists in the power of God;
6. and so far excels the wisdom of this world, that the natural man cannot understand it.














For who has known the mind of the Lord,
This phrase echoes Isaiah 40:13, emphasizing the incomprehensibility and sovereignty of God. In the biblical context, it underscores the vastness of God's wisdom compared to human understanding. Historically, this reflects the Jewish tradition of reverence for God's omniscience, acknowledging that His thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). The rhetorical question implies that no human can fully grasp God's mind, highlighting the need for divine revelation.

so as to instruct Him?
This part of the verse suggests the futility of attempting to advise or direct God. It reflects the cultural understanding of God's ultimate authority and wisdom, which was a common theme in Jewish teachings. The idea that humans could instruct God is absurd, reinforcing the belief in God's perfect knowledge and the limitations of human insight. This aligns with Job 38-41, where God questions Job, illustrating the vast difference between divine and human wisdom.

But we have the mind of Christ.
This statement signifies a profound truth for believers, indicating that through the Holy Spirit, Christians can understand God's will and purposes. It connects to the New Testament theme of believers being united with Christ (1 Corinthians 6:17) and having access to spiritual wisdom (Colossians 1:9). The "mind of Christ" implies a transformation and renewal of thought (Romans 12:2), enabling believers to discern spiritual truths. This reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about the coming of the Messiah, who would bring a new covenant and understanding (Jeremiah 31:33-34). It also typifies Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God's wisdom and character, providing believers with insight into God's nature and plans.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth, a city known for its diversity and moral challenges.

2. The Church in Corinth
A Christian community in a cosmopolitan city, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and spiritual immaturity.

3. The Mind of Christ
A concept referring to the spiritual insight and understanding that believers have through the Holy Spirit.

4. The Lord (God)
The omniscient and omnipotent Creator, whose mind and ways are beyond human comprehension.

5. Isaiah the Prophet
The original source of the rhetorical question quoted by Paul, emphasizing God's incomprehensible wisdom.
Teaching Points
Understanding the Mind of Christ
Believers are granted the mind of Christ, which allows them to discern spiritual truths and live according to God's will. This is a profound privilege and responsibility.

Humility in Knowledge
While we have access to the mind of Christ, it is crucial to remain humble, recognizing that our understanding is a gift from God and not a result of our own intellect.

Unity in the Church
Having the mind of Christ should lead to unity among believers, as we share the same spiritual insight and purpose, overcoming divisions and conflicts.

Spiritual Discernment
With the mind of Christ, believers are equipped to discern spiritual matters, making wise decisions that align with God's purposes.

Living Out the Mind of Christ
Practically, having the mind of Christ means embodying His love, humility, and obedience in our daily lives, impacting how we interact with others and face challenges.(16) For.--This is the proof that the enlightened spiritual man cannot be judged by any one who is not thus enlightened. "Who (thus uninstructed) can know the mind of the Lord Jesus, that he may instruct Him?"

But we.--That is, spiritual men, including the Apostles. The Apostle here identifies Christ with the Spirit, whom he has previously spoken of as the Teacher of spiritual things. He does not mean to assert that the Apostles knew all that the mind of Christ knew, but that all things which they did know were from Him and spiritual (John 15:15).

Verse 16. - Who hath known the mind of the Lord? "The Lord" is Jehovah (see Isaiah 40:13, LXX.; Romans 11:34). This is the reason why no one can judge the spiritual man in his spiritual life. To do so is like judging God. We have the mind of Christ. So Christ himself had told the apostles (John 15:15); and St. Paul always claimed to have been taught by direct revelation from Christ (Galatians 1:11, 12). They had the Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:9), and therefore the mind of Christ.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
“For
γὰρ (gar)
Conjunction
Strong's 1063: For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.

who
Τίς (Tis)
Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5101: Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.

has known
ἔγνω (egnō)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1097: A prolonged form of a primary verb; to 'know' in a great variety of applications and with many implications.

[the] mind
νοῦν (noun)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3563: Probably from the base of ginosko; the intellect, i.e. Mind; by implication, meaning.

of [the] Lord,
Κυρίου (Kyriou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 2962: Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.

[so as]
ὃς (hos)
Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3739: Who, which, what, that.

to instruct
συμβιβάσει (symbibasei)
Verb - Future Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4822: From sun and bibazo (by reduplication) of the base of basis); to drive together, i.e. Unite, to infer, show, teach.

Him?”
αὐτόν (auton)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

But
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

we
ἡμεῖς (hēmeis)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

have
ἔχομεν (echomen)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

[the] mind
νοῦν (noun)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3563: Probably from the base of ginosko; the intellect, i.e. Mind; by implication, meaning.

of Christ.
Χριστοῦ (Christou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.


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NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 2:16 For who has known the mind (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor)
1 Corinthians 2:15
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