“For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.” – 1 Corinthians 13:9-10

Scripture reading: Philippians 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 13:8-10

The problem in the Corinthian church was not a lack of knowledge and prophecy. The problem was a lack of humility and love, in how they used that knowledge (cf. 1 Corinthians 8:1). Thus, Paul impresses upon them, “we know in part and prophesy in part.”

This ought to instill humility in us. While we may know the Bible and systematic theology better than any seminary professor, we need to be humble because it’s still a partial knowledge. We still have so much to learn. The revelation that we have of Christ now, while it’s far greater than what they had in the Old Testament, is still a partial revelation compared to the full revelation of Christ’s glory at His second coming. It’s a sufficient revelation for this age (2 Timothy 3:16-17), but we look forward to “the perfect” (i.e. the full revelation of Christ at His return). Then the partial will pass away and we will have a theology of glorified saints. Additionally, we do theology now as those who are tainted by sin. But in glory we will be entirely free from sin forever.

Older Reformed theologians called their theological summaries and systems “our humble theology” and “a theology for pilgrims on the way.” Good theology ought to humble us, and be used in love and humility to build up the body of Christ. Let us walk in love and humility looking to the love and humility of Christ in our salvation (Philippians 2:1-11).

Suggestions for prayer

Confess to God the times that you have been proud and unloving in how you’ve used your knowledge of the Bible and theology. Rest in God’s love and forgiveness in Christ, and pray that the Spirit would enable you to walk in humility and love.

Rev. Brian Cochran is ordained in the United Reformed Churches in North America and has served as the pastor of Redeemer Reformation Church in Regina, SK, for 14 years. This month he starts a new call to Grace URC in Torrance, CA. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.