1 Corinthians 13:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 13:10 mean?

1 Corinthians 13:10 says that when something “perfect” arrives, the partial or incomplete things will be set aside. Paul is teaching that the limited understanding or abilities people have now will be replaced by something complete in the future.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining the difference between spiritual gifts that are temporary and the lasting quality of love. In the flow of the chapter, Paul contrasts the “in part” knowledge and prophecy believers have now with a future time when these partial things will no longer be needed because something whole or “perfect” will have come.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 13:10

• τέλειον (teleion, “perfect”): This word means “complete,” “mature,” or “fully developed” rather than morally flawless. Paul is pointing to a time when what is partial will be replaced by what is whole.
• ἐκ μέρους (ek merous, “in part”): This phrase means “partially” or “in a fragmentary way.” Paul uses it to describe the current state of knowledge or prophecy, which is incomplete.
• καταργηθήσεται (katargēthēsetai, “shall be done away”): This verb means “to abolish,” “to render useless,” or “to put an end to.” Paul is saying that the partial things will no longer serve a purpose once the complete arrives.

Why 1 Corinthians 13:10 matters

• This verse helps clarify that spiritual gifts like prophecy and knowledge are temporary and not the ultimate goal; they serve a purpose until something greater comes.
• Understanding the word “perfect” as “complete” or “mature” avoids the mistake of thinking Paul is talking about moral perfection or a specific event without context.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that love, unlike these gifts, is permanent and will continue even when the partial things have passed away.