that in everything you were enriched in him, in all speech and all knowledge; 1 Corinthians 1:5 WEB

Giving context to this verse, Paul is conveying the grace of God to the Corinthians. Before he addresses problems with the church, Paul declares his thanks to the Lord. Enriched in him, the apostle rightly credits God for the gifts given to his faithful. He speaks about the good gifts of God that prove the Corinthians devotion to Christ. He is confident that Christ will sustain them to stand blameless before the Lord on the day of judgment.

Rich in Knowledge

Concerning God, the church in Corinth was enriched in him, growing more rich in knowledge through time with study and practice. Clearly, they understood a great deal about God and Christ. Paul had taught them himself when he was with them. They had kept the understanding they gained through his teaching.

Even though they were well educated in the word, the letter focuses on correcting wrong actions and attitudes. As Christians, we are always growing and progressing in our understanding of the word and our relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

The word “speech” in this passage may refer to the church speaking in tongues by the power of the Holy Spirit. On the other hand, Paul may be expressing the church’s ability to articulate the gospel with their spoken word. Whatever the case may be, their knowledge and speech did not always lead to faithfully loving one another. The church still needed growth in this area.

Though the Corinthians were lacking in certain areas, Paul praises them and gives thanks to God for the good things they possess while correcting them for petty quarrels that had arisen between some members. He ends with a reference to the book of Jeremiah, “He who boasts, let him boast in the Lord. WEB” Enriched in him, it is fitting that members of God’s holy family celebrate the glory and majesty of our heavenly Father while living in harmony with one another.

Yesterday’s Devotional: Belong to Christ