Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 4:20

What does 1 Corinthians 4:20 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 4:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 4:20 means

Paul states the governing principle: the kingdom of God does not consist in word, but in power. God’s reign is not mere talk, however polished. It is evidenced by the Spirit’s effective work—changed lives, holy love, unity, endurance under trial, repentance, and obedience. This does not dismiss faithful teaching; rather, it insists that the message be matched by divine energy that brings reality, not rhetoric alone. The verse calls leaders and congregations to measure ministry by what God does through the truth, not by how impressively the truth is spoken. The rule of Christ is recognized where His power is operative.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for not in word is the reign of God, but in power?

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For the kingdom of God is not in speech, but in power.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For the kingdom ofGod [is] not in word, but in power.

Context

This declaration interprets Paul’s resolve in verse 19 and frames the choice of verse 21. It contrasts the Corinthians’ fascination with eloquence and status with the authentic marks of God’s rule. With the standard set—power, not mere speech—Paul will now place the decision in the Corinthians’ hands about how he should come to them, signaling both his authority and his desire for their restoration and peace.

v.19But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will; and I will know, not the word of them that are puffed up, but the power.

v.20This passage

v.21What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Romans 15:19

    in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Holy Spirit; so that from Jerusalem, and round about even unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ;

  • 2 Corinthians 10:4

    (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds);

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:5

    how that our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; even as ye know what manner of men we showed ourselves toward you for your sake.

  • Romans 1:16

    For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

  • Romans 14:17

    for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:24

    but unto them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

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