1 Corinthians 13:9-12: The Imperfect and the Perfect
The Limitations of Human Knowledge
In 1 Corinthians 13:9-12, the apostle Paul writes:
"For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known." (ESV)
Here, Paul highlights the limitations of human knowledge and understanding. He emphasizes that our current state of knowledge is incomplete and imperfect. We only know in part, and our prophecies are incomplete. This is a humble acknowledgment of the limitations of human understanding.
The Imperfections of Human Perception
Paul uses the metaphor of a child growing into adulthood to illustrate the imperfections of human perception. As a child, one speaks, thinks, and reasons like a child. But as one grows into adulthood, these childish ways are put aside. This process is akin to the growth of our understanding, from the imperfect to the perfect.
The Mirror Dimly
Paul also uses the metaphor of a mirror to describe our current state of understanding. In ancient times, mirrors were made of polished metal and provided a dim reflection. Paul suggests that our current understanding is like gazing into one of these mirrors - we see only a dim reflection of the truth.
The Promise of Perfection
However, Paul offers a promise of perfection. When the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. This refers to the time when believers will see God face to face, and their understanding will be complete. The imperfections of human knowledge will be replaced with the perfection of God's knowledge.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 13:9-12, Paul reminds us of the limitations of human knowledge and understanding. He encourages us to be humble in our pursuit of knowledge and to recognize the imperfections of our current state. But he also offers a promise of perfection, a time when our understanding will be complete, and we will see God face to face.
