What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 2:16? For who has known the mind of the Lord - Paul echoes Isaiah 40:13–14, underscoring that the Lord’s thoughts are infinitely beyond human reach. “Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, or informed Him as His counselor?”. - Scripture consistently teaches God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). - This line reminds us of God’s absolute sovereignty and wisdom. Because every word of Scripture is true, we can trust that our own reasoning, apart from revelation, cannot grasp His full counsel. - Key takeaway: Humility before an all-knowing God is the proper starting point for wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). so as to instruct Him? - The rhetorical question drives home that no creature can teach or correct the Creator (Job 36:22; Romans 11:34). - In practical terms: • We do not negotiate or edit God’s commands. • We approach His Word ready to be taught, not to tutor Him. - When believers pray or study, we submit to His revealed will, trusting that His judgments are true and righteous altogether (Psalm 19:9). But we have the mind of Christ. - Astonishing contrast: while no one can instruct the Lord, He graciously shares His own mind with His people. - How this happens: • The Holy Spirit indwells believers, revealing truth (1 Corinthians 2:10-12; John 14:26). • Scripture renews our thinking so we discern God’s will (Romans 12:2). • The example and teaching of Jesus, preserved in the Gospels, shape our attitudes (Philippians 2:5). - What it means: • Access to divine wisdom for daily choices. • Unity with fellow believers as we share the same Christ-centered outlook (1 Corinthians 1:10). • Confidence to judge spiritual matters rightly, even when the world cannot understand (1 Corinthians 2:14-15). summary No one can fathom or advise the Lord, yet through the Spirit and the Word He lets His children share in the mind of Christ. We bow before His infinite wisdom, receive His instruction without trying to correct Him, and walk forward equipped with Christ’s own perspective to live, serve, and discern truth. |
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