NT Text: 1 Corinthians 3:20
OT Source(s):
Source: John Gill, Exposition of the Entire Bible (1763)
Reference Type: Direct Quotation
Connection Method(s): Contrast
Significance: Psalm 94:11 appears in a context where the psalmist appeals to God as judge against the wicked who oppress the righteous. The original declares that God knows the thoughts of humans are "mere breath" (futile). Paul applies this to expose the emptiness of the Corinthians' philosophical pretensions. While they boast in sophisticated wisdom and eloquent leaders, God sees through to the futility of all human reasoning divorced from Christ. This quotation combines with Job 5:13 to show both God's active judgment and His comprehensive knowledge - He catches the wise in craftiness (Job) because He sees the futility of their thoughts (Psalm 94). Together, these texts demolish any ground for boasting in human wisdom.