Why is the theme of wisdom so prominent in Corinthians?
The theme is prominent because Paul contrasts human wisdom—the wisdom of this world and its rulers—with God’s hidden wisdom, ordained before the world. He addresses immature Corinthian believers still under grace, showing that true wisdom is for the mature and comes from God, not worldly philosophers.
Les explains that one commentator said Corinthians is so hung up on wisdom—the wisdom of men versus the wisdom of God—and the word keeps popping up. Paul says, 'We speak wisdom among them that are perfect,' meaning mature, not sinless. These Corinthian believers were still embryonic and fledgling, carnal and weak, yet under God's grace, which was sufficient. This wisdom is not of this world nor of its princes, which come to naught. Rather, Paul speaks God's hidden wisdom, ordained before the world for our glory.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
More Questions
What wisdom contrast is the book of 1 Corinthians hung up on?
First Corinthians repeatedly contrasts the wisdom of men with the wisdom of God.