Definition: And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, [yea], and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly complex passage from 1 Corinthians 1:28. It's a really rich and layered verse, so we’ll go through it slowly. Here’s the general idea: This verse is talking about things that aren’t truly valuable or meaningful in our lives. It’s urging us to look beyond the superficial and focus on things that are genuinely important – God's truth and real connection with Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And base things of the world…” : This refers to everything we experience in the physical world – money, possessions, fame, power, even our own fleeting feelings. These things are transient and don’t last forever. “…and things which are despised…” : This is where it gets a bit more metaphorical. “Disprised” means considered worthless or unimportant. It's not just about being bad – it's about being unimportant to God's purpose and true fulfillment. Things like vanity, pride, or selfish desires fall into this category. “…hath God chosen, [yea], and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are…” : This is the core of the verse. God has chosen certain things – principles, truths, and ways of being – to be destroyed or diminished . “Bring to naught” means to weaken or eliminate them. So, what does this all mean practically? The verse is essentially saying: Don’t get lost in the distractions and fleeting pleasures of the world. Our focus should be on things that are truly God-centered - faith, love, forgiveness, service, and living a life that honors Him. These things aren't easily swayed by worldly desires or opinions; they have lasting value because they come from God. Think of it like this: The world is full of shiny objects – tempting distractions. But true riches are found in the spiritual rewards offered by God. Important Note: It’s a warning against complacency and focusing on things that don't contribute to our spiritual growth and relationship with God. --- Resources for Further Exploration: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1 Corinthians%201%2C1%2028](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1 Corinthians%201%2C1%2028) - This page provides a direct translation and context of the verse. Bible Commentaries: (Various online or in print) – These offer deeper insights into the meaning and historical context of the passage. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Discuss how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible? Give a more modern example of what it means to "bring things to naught?"