1 Corinthians 15:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 15:10 mean?

1 Corinthians 15:10 means that Paul credits everything he is and has accomplished to God’s grace, not to his own efforts. Even though Paul worked very hard, he insists that it was really God’s grace working with him that made his ministry fruitful.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining how his life and work as an apostle are entirely the result of God’s kindness and favor. He wants the Corinthians to understand that, although he has labored more than others, he does not take the credit for himself. Instead, Paul emphasizes that God’s grace is active and effective, not empty or wasted, in his life and service.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 15:10

• χάρις (charis) — “grace”: This word means undeserved favor or kindness. Paul repeats it three times, stressing that everything about his identity and work comes from God’s generosity, not his own merit.
• ἐκοπίασα (ekopiasa) — “laboured”: The Greek word here means to work to the point of exhaustion. Paul acknowledges his hard work, but he frames it as the result of grace, not as a personal achievement.
• κενή (kenē) — “vain”: This word means empty or without result. Paul is saying that God’s grace was not wasted on him; it produced real change and effort.
• σύν (syn) — “with”: Paul says God’s grace was “with” him, highlighting that God’s help was present and active alongside him, not just given once in the past.

Why 1 Corinthians 15:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul does not see himself as self-made or superior; he roots his identity and success in God’s ongoing kindness.
• Paul’s words balance human effort and divine help, showing that hard work and God’s grace are not opposites but work together.
• In the wider context of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul is defending the reality of the resurrection and his authority as an apostle, so this verse shows humility and dependence on God rather than boasting.