Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:

1 CORINTHIANS 10:32KJV
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1 Corinthians 10:32 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 10:32 mean?

1 Corinthians 10:32 instructs believers not to cause offense or put a stumbling block in the way of anyone—whether they are Jews, Gentiles, or fellow members of the church of God. The verse calls for thoughtful behavior that avoids unnecessary conflict or harm to any group.

Paul, the apostle, is writing to the Christian community in Corinth, a diverse city with people from various backgrounds. He is urging them to be considerate in their actions, especially regarding things that could harm relationships or hinder others from faith. The verse comes in a section where Paul discusses how believers should act for the good of others, not just themselves.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 10:32

  • ἀπρόσκοπος (G677, transliterated as "aproskopos") is translated as "offence" here and often means causing someone to stumble or be hindered. Paul is telling the Corinthians to avoid actions that might trip up others in their faith or relationships.
  • Ἰουδαῖος (G2453, "Ioudaios") means "Jews," and Ἕλλην (G1672, "Hellēn") means "Gentiles" or non-Jews. Paul specifically names both groups, showing that his instruction applies to everyone, not just fellow Christians.
  • ἐκκλησία (G1577, "ekklēsia") means "church" or "assembly." By adding "the church of God," Paul includes the Christian community, making clear that believers should be careful not to harm anyone inside or outside the church.

Why 1 Corinthians 10:32 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Christian conduct should be sensitive to all people, not just those within the faith, challenging any attitude of exclusivity or favoritism.
  • It highlights Paul's concern for unity and peace among diverse groups in the early church, especially in a multicultural city like Corinth.
  • The verse connects to Paul's broader teaching about self-restraint and love for others, showing that the Christian life involves considering the impact of one's actions on everyone, not just oneself.

Where else these words appear

“offence” Greek G677 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.
  • Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

“Gentiles” Greek G1672 · used in 26 verses

  • John 7:35 Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?
  • Acts 19:10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.
  • Romans 3:9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

“church” Greek G1577 · used in 115 verses

  • Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:22 What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.
  • Colossians 1:24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church: