Commentary on 1 Corinthians

Augustine of Hippo (354–430)

There is no way that this gospel truth could have been made acceptable to some philosophers and debaters. They follow a way of life that does not stand in the truth but is only an imitation of it. They deceived themselves and others.

Paul's intention is perfectly clear—to accost the pride of man, that no one should take glory in human works and that no one should glory in himself.

Paul said this because he was speaking to those who were unable to grasp the more sublime teachings of the divinity of Christ.

But if Christ had not been put to death, death would not have died. The devil was overcome by his own trophy, for the devil rejoiced when, by seducing the first man, he cast him into death. By seducing the first man, he killed him. By killing the last man, he lost the first from his snare.

Paul was not speaking of their bodies but of their carnal spirits.

Since the apostles would not have accomplished anything if God had not given the increase, how much more true is this of you or me, or anyone else of our time, who fancies himself as a teacher.

See also

• More works by Augustine of Hippo

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