I Corinthians 1:30

But . . . ye--in contrast to them that "glory" in worldly wisdom and greatness. of him are--not of yourselves (Eph 2:8), but of Him (Rom 11:36). From Him ye are (that is, have spiritual life, who once were spiritually among the "things which are not." Co1 1:28). in Christ--by living union with Him. Not "in the flesh" (Co1 1:26, Co1 1:29). of God--from God; emanating from Him and sent by Him. is made unto us--has been made to us, to our eternal gain. wisdom--unattainable by the worldly mode of seeking it (Co1 1:19-20; contrast Col 2:3; Pro. 8:1-36; Isa 9:6). By it we become "wise unto salvation," owing to His wisdom in originating and executing the plan, whereas once we were "fools." righteousness--the ground of our justification (Jer 23:5-6; Rom 4:25; Co2 5:21); whereas once we were "weak" (Rom 5:6). Isa 42:21; Isa 45:24. sanctification--by His Spirit; whereas formerly we were "base." Hereafter our righteousness and sanctification alike shall be both perfect and inherent. Now the righteousness wherewith we are justified is perfect, but not inherent; that wherewith we are sanctified is inherent, but not perfect [HOOKER]. Now sanctification is perfect in principle, but not in attainment. These two are joined in the Greek as forming essentially but one thing, as distinguished from the "wisdom" in devising and executing the plan for us ("abounded toward us in all wisdom," Eph 1:8), and "redemption," the final completion of the scheme in the deliverance of the body (the position of "redemption" last shows that this limited sense is the one intended here). Luk 21:28; Rom 8:23; Eph 1:14; Eph 4:30. redemption--whereas once we were "despised."

In this chapter we have, I. The preface or introduction to the whole epistle (Co1 1:1-9). II. One principal occasion of writing it hinted, namely, their divisions and the origin of them (Co1 1:10-13). III. An account of Paul's ministry among them, which was principally preaching the gospel (Co1 1:14-17). IV. The manner wherein he preached the gospel, and the different success of it, with an account how admirably it was fitted to bring glory to God and beat down the pride and vanity of men (Co1 1:17 to the end).

1:30 When people are united . . . with Christ Jesus, God makes them righteous, holy, and free (see 6:11; Rom 3:21-26; 5:17-21). This work of Christ is an expression of God’s wisdom.