Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

1 CORINTHIANS 10:11KJV
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1 Corinthians 10:11 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 10:11 mean?

1 Corinthians 10:11 says that the events experienced by people in the past were examples, and these stories were recorded to warn and instruct those living now, especially those who believe they are living in the final period of history. The verse highlights that what happened before was meant to teach and caution later generations.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, reminding them about the experiences of the Israelites in the Old Testament. He explains that the stories of their failures and consequences were not just for history’s sake, but were written down to serve as warnings and lessons for Christians. Paul’s point is that these ancient events have ongoing meaning for believers, especially as they consider themselves to be living in significant times.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 10:11

  • τύπος (typos, G5179): Translated as "ensamples" or "examples," this word means a pattern, model, or example. Paul is saying that the earlier events serve as a pattern for later believers to learn from, not just distant history.
  • νουθεσία (nouthesia, G3559): Translated as "admonition," this means warning or instruction. The Greek here emphasizes that these stories are meant to correct and guide the reader, not just inform.
  • συντέλεια (telos, G5056) and αἰών (aiōn, G165): Together, these are translated as "ends of the world." The phrase refers to the culmination or fulfillment of ages, suggesting that Paul’s readers are living in a climactic or important era in God’s plan.

Why 1 Corinthians 10:11 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the Old Testament stories are not just ancient history but are intended to teach and warn later generations, including Christians.
  • Paul’s use of "examples" and "admonition" shows that Scripture is meant to be practical and formative, not just informative.
  • The mention of "the ends of the world" connects the experiences of past believers to the present, stressing that the lessons of history are especially urgent for those who believe they are living in significant or final times.