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Bible >1 Corinthians >Chapter 1 > Verse 19

◄ 1 Corinthians 1:19►

New International Version
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

New Living Translation
As the Scriptures say, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and discard the intelligence of the intelligent.”

English Standard Version
For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.”

Berean Standard Bible
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

Berean Literal Bible
For it has been written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; and the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."

King James Bible
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.

New King James Version
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.”

New American Standard Bible
For it is written: “I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE, AND THE UNDERSTANDING OF THOSE WHO HAVE UNDERSTANDING, I WILL CONFOUND.”

NASB 1995
For it is written, “I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE, AND THE CLEVERNESS OF THE CLEVER I WILL SET ASIDE.”

NASB 1977
For it is written, “I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE, AND THE CLEVERNESS OF THE CLEVER I WILL SET ASIDE.”

Legacy Standard Bible
For it is written, “I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE, AND THE CLEVERNESS OF THE CLEVER I WILL SET ASIDE.”

Amplified Bible
For it is writtenand forever remains written, “I WILL DESTROY THE WISDOM OF THE WISE [the philosophy of the philosophers], AND THE CLEVERNESS OF THE CLEVER [who do not know Me] I WILL NULLIFY.”

Christian Standard Bible
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will set aside the intelligence of the intelligent.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will set aside the understanding of the experts.

American Standard Version
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And the discernment of the discerning will I bring to nought.

Contemporary English Version
As God says in the Scriptures, "I will destroy the wisdom of all who claim to be wise. I will confuse those who think they know so much."

English Revised Version
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And the prudence of the prudent will I reject.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Scripture says, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise. I will reject the intelligence of intelligent people."

Good News Translation
The scripture says, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and set aside the understanding of the scholars."

International Standard Version
For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will reject."

NET Bible
For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will thwart the cleverness of the intelligent."

New Heart English Bible
For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will nullify."

Webster's Bible Translation
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.

Weymouth New Testament
For so it stands written, "I will exhibit the nothingness of the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will bring to nought."

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

World English Bible
For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise. I will bring the discernment of the discerning to nothing.”

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
for it has been written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will bring to nothing”;

Berean Literal Bible
For it has been written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; and the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."

Young's Literal Translation
for it hath been written, 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will bring to nought;'

Smith's Literal Translation
For it has been written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and put away the understanding of the intelligent.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the prudence of the prudent I will reject.

Catholic Public Domain Version
For it has been written: “I will perish the wisdom of the wise, and I will reject the discernment of the prudent.”

New American Bible
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the learning of the learned I will set aside.”

New Revised Standard Version
For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.”

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will do away with the understanding of the prudent.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
For it is written: “I shall destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I shall take away the opinions of the intelligent.”

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; and I will set aside the understanding of the prudent.

Godbey New Testament
For it has been written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nought the understanding of the intelligent.

Haweis New Testament
For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the understanding of the intelligent will I make useless.”

Mace New Testament
for it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent."

Weymouth New Testament
For so it stands written, "I will exhibit the nothingness of the wisdom of the wise, and the intelligence of the intelligent I will bring to nought."

Worrell New Testament
For it has been written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning will I set aside."

Worsley New Testament
For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent."

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

The Message of the Cross
18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.19For it is written:“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”20Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Isaiah 29:14
Therefore I will again confound these people with wonder upon wonder. The wisdom of the wise will vanish, and the intelligence of the intelligent will be hidden.”

Job 5:12-13
He thwarts the schemes of the crafty, so that their hands find no success. / He catches the wise in their craftiness, and sweeps away the plans of the cunning.

Matthew 11:25
At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.

Romans 1:22
Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools,

James 3:15
Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.

Jeremiah 8:9
The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what wisdom do they really have?

Isaiah 44:25
who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who confounds the wise and turns their knowledge into nonsense,

Proverbs 21:30
There is no wisdom, no understanding, no counsel that can prevail against the LORD.

Colossians 2:8
See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:19-20
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.” / And again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”

Romans 11:33
O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and untraceable His ways!

Isaiah 19:11-12
The princes of Zoan are mere fools; Pharaoh’s wise counselors give senseless advice. How can you say to Pharaoh, “I am one of the wise, a son of eastern kings”? / Where are your wise men now? Let them tell you and reveal what the LORD of Hosts has planned against Egypt.

Luke 10:21
At that time Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight.

1 Corinthians 2:6-7
Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom—but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. / No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.

Isaiah 33:18
Your mind will ponder the former terror: “Where is he who tallies? Where is he who weighs? Where is he who counts the towers?”

Treasury of Scripture

For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.

1 Corinthians 3:19
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

Job 5:12,13
He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot performtheir enterprise…

Isaiah 19:3,11
And the spirit of Egypt shall fail in the midst thereof; and I will destroy the counsel thereof: and they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards…

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1 Corinthians 1

1.After his salutation and thanksgiving for the Corinthians,
10.Paul exhorts them to unity,
12.and reproves their dissensions.
18.God destroys the wisdom of the wise,
21.by the foolishness of preaching;
26.and calls not the wise, mighty, and noble,
28.but the foolish, weak, and men of no account.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

For it is written:
This phrase indicates that Paul is referencing Scripture, grounding his argument in the authority of the Old Testament. It reflects the Jewish tradition of citing sacred texts to support theological points. Paul often uses this method to connect his teachings with the Hebrew Scriptures, showing continuity and fulfillment in Christ.

“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
This part of the verse is a direct quotation fromIsaiah 29:14. In its original context, it addresses the futility of relying on human wisdom and schemes instead of trusting in God. The "wise" refers to those who consider themselves knowledgeable and capable apart from divine revelation. Paul uses this to critique the Greek culture of his time, which highly valued philosophy and human reasoning. It also serves as a reminder that God's ways and thoughts are higher than human understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9).

the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
This phrase emphasizes the limitations of human intellect when it stands in opposition to God's purposes. The term "frustrate" suggests that God actively works against the plans and understanding of those who rely solely on their own insight. This is a theme throughout Scripture, where God often chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27). It points to the paradox of the Gospel, where true wisdom is found in what the world considers foolishness—the message of the cross. This also foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God's wisdom in Christ, who embodies the wisdom and power of God (1 Corinthians 1:24).

Persons / Places / Events

1.Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth, a city known for its diversity and intellectual pursuits.

2.Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, commerce, and philosophical schools, which often led to pride in human wisdom.

3.Isaiah the Prophet
The original source of the quote, found inIsaiah 29:14, where God speaks against the wisdom of those who rely on human understanding rather than divine revelation.

Teaching Points

The Limitations of Human Wisdom
Human wisdom, while valuable, is limited and often falls short of understanding God's purposes. Believers are encouraged to seek God's wisdom, which surpasses human understanding.

The Supremacy of Divine Wisdom
God's wisdom is supreme and often counterintuitive to human logic. Christians are called to trust in God's plan, even when it contradicts worldly wisdom.

Humility in Learning
Recognizing the limitations of human wisdom should lead to humility. Believers should approach learning and knowledge with a humble heart, acknowledging that true wisdom comes from God.

Dependence on Scripture
Scripture is the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. Christians should prioritize biblical teachings over secular philosophies and ideologies.

Faith Over Intellect
Faith in God should take precedence over intellectual pride. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a faith that trusts in God's wisdom and timing.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 1:19?

2.How does 1 Corinthians 1:19 challenge worldly wisdom in our daily decisions?

3.What does "destroy the wisdom of the wise" mean in today's context?

4.How can we apply 1 Corinthians 1:19 to discern truth in media?

5.How does this verse connect with Proverbs 3:5-6 about trusting God?

6.In what ways can we prioritize God's wisdom over human wisdom in life?

7.How does 1 Corinthians 1:19 challenge human wisdom and understanding?

8.What is the historical context of 1 Corinthians 1:19?

9.How does 1 Corinthians 1:19 relate to the theme of divine wisdom?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 1?

11.Are atheists more intelligent than religious believers?

12.Are atheists more intelligent than religious believers?

13.What defines sophism in philosophical terms?

14.How will wisdom be destroyed?

What Does 1 Corinthians 1:19 Mean

For it is written

Paul begins by anchoring his statement in Scripture, pointing back toIsaiah 29:14. By doing this, he reminds the Corinthians—and us—that God’s word has already spoken on the issue of human wisdom versus divine wisdom. Just as Jesus responded to temptation with “It is written” (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10), Paul appeals to Scripture as the highest authority. The lesson is clear: whenever we evaluate ideas, movements, or philosophies, we start with what God has already said (Psalm 119:160;2 Timothy 3:16-17).

I will destroy the wisdom of the wise

God declares that any system of thought that tries to explain life apart from Him is destined to collapse.

• Throughout history, the “wise” have offered confident conclusions—yet God repeatedly overturns them (Genesis 11:1-9;Exodus 7:10-12;1 Kings 18:25-39).

• The cross especially exposes the limits of human wisdom: what seems like weakness is actually God’s power to save (1 Corinthians 1:18, 23-24).

•Proverbs 3:5-7 calls us to trust the Lord with all our heart and “lean not on [our] own understanding.” When we refuse, the very wisdom we prize becomes our downfall (Romans 1:21-22).

Believers can therefore live confidently, knowing that God’s truth stands long after every human philosophy fades (Isaiah 40:8).

the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.

God not only exposes faulty wisdom; He actively frustrates it.

• He confounds proud thinkers so their theories collapse under their own weight (Job 5:12-13;Psalm 33:10).

• This frustration often comes through irony: Pharaoh’s plan to kill Hebrew boys leads to Moses’ preservation (Exodus 1-2); Haman’s gallows become his own undoing (Esther 7:9-10).

• In the gospel age, God chooses “the foolish things of the world to shame the wise” by saving people through a crucified Messiah (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

For believers, this truth brings freedom. We don’t have to chase every new idea that claims to have life figured out; we rest in the unchanging wisdom of God revealed in Christ (Colossians 2:2-3;James 3:17).

summary

Paul quotes Isaiah to show that God has always intended to overturn human self-reliance. Every proud intellect that sidelines the Lord will ultimately run aground, while those who humble themselves before the cross discover true wisdom and life.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(19)For itis written.--This is a further explanation of why the word of the gospel, and not the word of merely human wisdom, is "the power of God." The quotation which follows consists of two passages in Isaiah, and is taken from the LXX., one word being altered. We have here "bring to nothing," instead of "I will conceal." "Words which originally applied to those who assumed to be the guides of the Jewish race (Isaiah 29:14), apply with greater force to those who would presume to be Christian leaders.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 19. -It is written. This formula (1 Corinthians 1:31;1 Corinthians 2:9;1 Corinthians 3:19;1 Corinthians 9:9;1 Corinthians 10:7;1 Corinthians 15:45;2 Corinthians 8:15) is chiefly used in letters to Churches in which there were many Jews. This is a free citation from the LXX. ofIsaiah 29:14 (the same thought is found inJob 5:12, 13; see tooMatthew 11:25). The original passage refers to penal judgments from the Assyrians, which would test the false prophets of Israel.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

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

it is written:
γέγραπται(gegraptai)
Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1125:A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.

“I will destroy
Ἀπολῶ(Apolō)
Verb - Future Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 622:From apo and the base of olethros; to destroy fully, literally or figuratively.

the
τὴν(tēn)
Article - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

wisdom
σοφίαν(sophian)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4678:Wisdom, insight, skill (human or divine), intelligence. From sophos; wisdom.

of the
τῶν(tōn)
Article - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

wise;
σοφῶν(sophōn)
Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 4680:Wise, learned, cultivated, skilled, clever. Akin to saphes; wise.

the
τὴν(tēn)
Article - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

intelligence
σύνεσιν(synesin)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4907:From suniemi; a mental putting together, i.e. Intelligence or the intellect.

of the
τῶν(tōn)
Article - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

intelligent
συνετῶν(synetōn)
Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 4908:Intelligent, prudent, wise, understanding, discerning. From suniemi; mentally put together, i.e. Sagacious.

I will frustrate.”
ἀθετήσω(athetēsō)
Verb - Future Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 114:From a compound of a and a derivative of tithemi; to set aside, i.e. to disesteem, neutralize or violate.

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NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 1:19 For it is written I will destroy (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor)