But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

1 CORINTHIANS 8:3KJV
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1 Corinthians 8:3 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 8:3 mean?

1 Corinthians 8:3 says that if someone loves God, God knows that person. The verse highlights a special relationship: loving God is not just about what we do, but about being recognized and known by God Himself.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing questions about knowledge, idols, and how believers should live. In this part of the letter, Paul contrasts mere knowledge with love for God, suggesting that true value comes from loving God rather than just knowing facts. The verse reassures believers that God personally knows those who love Him.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 8:3

  • ἀγαπᾷ (agapaō, "love"): This Greek word means a deep, committed, self-giving love. Paul uses it to show that the kind of love God values is not just emotion, but a devoted relationship.
  • ἔγνωσται (egnōstai, "is known"): The Greek here carries the sense of being recognized or acknowledged in a personal way, not just being noticed. It suggests a close, mutual relationship between God and the person who loves Him.

Why 1 Corinthians 8:3 matters

  • This verse clarifies that being known by God is tied to loving Him, not just having religious knowledge or status.
  • Paul’s emphasis on love over knowledge connects to the larger theme of the chapter, where he warns against pride that can come from knowledge alone.
  • The verse reassures believers that God’s recognition is personal and relational, not based on outward achievements or intellect.

Where else these words appear

“man” Greek G1536 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

“love” Greek G25 · used in 109 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
  • 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.