1 Corinthians 14:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:20 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:20 tells believers not to be immature in their thinking, but to be innocent when it comes to evil and mature in their understanding. Paul is urging the church to grow up in how they think about spiritual matters, but to remain childlike in their attitude toward wrongdoing.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, addressing confusion and disorder in their gatherings, especially about spiritual gifts. He calls them "brethren" to show warmth, then contrasts two areas: in "malice" (wrongdoing), they should be as innocent as children, but in "understanding," they should aim for maturity. This sets up the rest of the chapter, where he encourages thoughtful, orderly worship.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:20

• παιδία (paidia, G3813): This word means "children" and is used for being immature or inexperienced, especially in understanding. Paul uses it to say believers should not be childish in their thinking.
• κακία (kakia, G2549): This word means "malice" or "evil." Paul says to be like children regarding malice, meaning innocent or free from harmful intent.
• τέλειοι (teleioi, G5046): This word is translated "men" in the KJV, but it means "mature" or "complete." Paul is urging the Corinthians to aim for full-grown, thoughtful understanding, not just age or gender.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:20 matters

• This verse clears up that Christian maturity is not about being naive or gullible, but about growing in wise, thoughtful understanding while keeping a pure heart toward others.
• Paul’s contrast shows that spiritual growth involves both innocence (avoiding evil) and maturity (developing sound judgment), not just one or the other.
• The verse helps set the tone for the rest of the chapter, where Paul encourages order and clarity in worship, reminding the church that spiritual gifts should build up everyone, not cause confusion.