As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.

1 CORINTHIANS 8:4KJV
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1 Corinthians 8:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 8:4 mean?

1 Corinthians 8:4 explains that, when it comes to eating food that has been offered to idols, Christians know that idols are not real gods and that there is only one true God. The verse states that idols have no real existence or power in the world.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing their questions about whether it is acceptable to eat food that had been part of pagan sacrifices. He reminds them that, from a Christian perspective, idols are meaningless because there is only one God. This sets the stage for his larger discussion about how knowledge and love should guide their actions in situations like this.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 8:4

  • εἴδωλον (eidōlon): This word means "idol," referring to a physical object worshipped as a god. Paul uses it to stress that these objects are empty and powerless.
  • οὐδείς (oudeis): Translated here as "nothing," this word emphasizes that idols have no real existence or substance in the world.
  • θεός (theos): Meaning "God," Paul uses this word to underline that there is only one true God, in contrast to the many so-called gods of the surrounding culture.

Why 1 Corinthians 8:4 matters

  • This verse clarifies that, for Christians, idols are not real spiritual beings and have no true power, which was a key concern in a city full of idol worship.
  • Paul’s statement helps the Corinthian believers understand that their faith in one God sets them apart from the surrounding culture’s beliefs.
  • The verse prepares readers for Paul’s later points about how knowledge should be balanced with consideration for others who might not fully understand these truths.

Where else these words appear

“eating” Greek G1035 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
  • John 6:27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

“idols” Greek G1494 · used in 10 verses

  • Acts 15:29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
  • 1 Corinthians 8:7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
  • 1 Corinthians 10:28 But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof:

“idol” Greek G1497 · used in 11 verses

  • Acts 7:41 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
  • 1 Corinthians 8:7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
  • 2 Corinthians 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

“but” Greek G1508 · used in 87 verses

  • Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
  • Mark 13:32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
  • Romans 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.