CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Corinthians 12:2 You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/12-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/46_1Co_12_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 12:2 - Spiritual Gifts" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_corinthians/12-2.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_corinthians/12-2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/">1 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/12.htm">Chapter 12</a> > Verse 2</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_corinthians/12-1.htm" title="1 Corinthians 12:1">◄</a> 1 Corinthians 12:2 <a href="/1_corinthians/12-3.htm" title="1 Corinthians 12:3">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/12.htm">New International Version</a> You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> You know that when you were still pagans, you were led astray and swept along in worshiping speechless idols. <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, to mute idols you were led, as being carried away. <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/12.htm">King James Bible</a> Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. <a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/12.htm">New King James Version</a> You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. <a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led. <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led. <a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the dumb idols, however you were led. <a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> You know that when you were pagans, you were being led astray to the mute idols, however you were led. <a href="/amp/1_corinthians/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were led off after speechless idols; however you were led off [whether by impulse or habit]. <a href="/csb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you used to be enticed and led astray by mute idols. <a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you used to be led off to the idols that could not speak. <a href="/asv/1_corinthians/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> Ye know that when ye were Gentiles ye were led away unto those dumb idols, howsoever ye might be led. <a href="/cev/1_corinthians/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I want you to remember that before you became followers of the Lord, you were led in all the wrong ways by idols that cannot even talk. <a href="/erv/1_corinthians/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> Ye know that when ye were Gentiles ye were led away unto those dumb idols, howsoever ye might be led. <a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> You know that when you were unbelievers, every time you were led to worship false gods you were worshiping gods who couldn't even speak. <a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> You know that while you were still heathen, you were led astray in many ways to the worship of lifeless idols. <a href="/isv/1_corinthians/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> You know that when you were unbelievers, you were enticed and led astray to worship idols that couldn't even speak. <a href="/msb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. <a href="/net/1_corinthians/12.htm">NET Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans you were often led astray by speechless idols, however you were led. <a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> You know that when you were unbelievers, you were led away to those mute idols, however you might be led. <a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, even as ye were led. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You know that when you were heathens you went astray after dumb idols, wherever you happened to be led. <a href="/web/1_corinthians/12.htm">World English Bible</a> You know that when you were heathen, you were led away to those mute idols, however you might be led. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> you have known that you were nations, being carried away as you were led to the mute idols; <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> You know that when you were pagans, to mute idols you were led, as being carried away. <a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> ye have known that ye were nations, unto the dumb idols -- as ye were led -- being carried away; <a href="/slt/1_corinthians/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Ye know that ye were the nations, to dumb idols, as ye were led, being carried away.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> You know that when you were heathens, you went to dumb idols, according as you were led. <a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> You know that when you were Gentiles, you approached mute idols, doing what you were led to do. <a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/12.htm">New American Bible</a> You know how, when you were pagans, you were constantly attracted and led away to mute idols. <a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> That once you were pagans, and without exception you were carried away by dumb idols. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> That you were pagans and you were being led without discrimination to those idols which have no voice.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to those dumb idols, as you might be led. <a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> You know that when you were heathens, you were following after dumb idols, as you were led. <a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Ye know that ye were Gentiles, drawn away after the idols that are dumb, even as ye have been led. <a href="/mace/1_corinthians/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a> when you were Gentiles, you know how you were seduced by your leaders, to the worship of dumb idols. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You know that when you were heathens you went astray after dumb idols, wherever you happened to be led. <a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Ye know that ye were gentiles, carried away to the dumb idols, as ye were led. <a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Ye know that ye were Gentiles, drawn aside after dumb idols, just as ye were led: wherefore, <a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-wZWoK_LZU?start=2496" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/12.htm">Spiritual Gifts</a> 1Now about spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2<a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: Oidate (V-RIA-2P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">You know</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/3753.htm" title="3753: hote (Adv) -- When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When.">when</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ēte (V-IIA-2P) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">you were</a> <a href="/greek/1484.htm" title="1484: ethnē (N-NNP) -- Probably from etho; a race, i.e. A tribe; specially, a foreign one.">pagans,</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner."></a> <a href="/greek/302.htm" title="302: an (Prtcl) -- A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty."></a> <a href="/greek/71.htm" title="71: ēgesthe (V-IIM/P-2P) -- A primary verb; properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, go, pass, or induce.">you were influenced</a> <a href="/greek/520.htm" title="520: apagomenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- To lead, carry, take away; met: To be led astray, seduced. From apo and ago; to take off.">and led astray</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-ANP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-ANP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/880.htm" title="880: aphōna (Adj-ANP) -- Soundless, voiceless, speechless, dumb. Figuratively, unmeaning.">mute</a> <a href="/greek/1497.htm" title="1497: eidōla (N-ANP) -- An idol, false god. From eidos; an image; by implication, a heathen god, or the worship of such.">idols.</a> 3Therefore I inform you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/acts/17-22.htm">Acts 17:22-23</a> Then Paul stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious. / For as I walked around and examined your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore what you worship as something unknown, I now proclaim to you. <a href="/galatians/4-8.htm">Galatians 4:8</a> Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. <a href="/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11-12</a> Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)— / remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-9.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:9</a> For they themselves report what kind of welcome you gave us, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God <a href="/romans/1-21.htm">Romans 1:21-23</a> For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. / Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools, / and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images of mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. <a href="/1_peter/4-3.htm">1 Peter 4:3</a> For you have spent enough time in the past carrying out the same desires as the Gentiles: living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and detestable idolatry. <a href="/isaiah/44-9.htm">Isaiah 44:9-20</a> All makers of idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Their witnesses fail to see or comprehend, so they are put to shame. / Who fashions a god or casts an idol which profits him nothing? / Behold, all his companions will be put to shame, for the craftsmen themselves are only human. Let them all assemble and take their stand; they will all be brought to terror and shame. ... <a href="/jeremiah/10-1.htm">Jeremiah 10:1-5</a> Hear the word that the LORD speaks to you, O house of Israel. / This is what the LORD says: “Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by the signs in the heavens, though the nations themselves are terrified by them. / For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut down a tree from the forest; it is shaped with a chisel by the hands of a craftsman. ... <a href="/psalms/115-4.htm">Psalm 115:4-8</a> Their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. / They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see; / they have ears, but cannot hear; they have noses, but cannot smell; ... <a href="/psalms/135-15.htm">Psalm 135:15-18</a> The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. / They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see; / they have ears, but cannot hear; nor is there breath in their mouths. ... <a href="/deuteronomy/4-28.htm">Deuteronomy 4:28</a> And there you will serve man-made gods of wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or eat or smell. <a href="/2_kings/17-15.htm">2 Kings 17:15</a> They rejected His statutes and the covenant He had made with their fathers, as well as the decrees He had given them. They pursued worthless idols and became worthless themselves, going after the surrounding nations that the LORD had commanded them not to imitate. <a href="/isaiah/46-5.htm">Isaiah 46:5-7</a> To whom will you liken Me or count Me equal? To whom will you compare Me, that we should be alike? / They pour out their bags of gold and weigh out silver on scales; they hire a goldsmith to fashion it into a god, so they can bow down and worship. / They lift it to their shoulder and carry it along; they set it in its place, and there it stands, not budging from that spot. They cry out to it, but it does not answer; it saves no one from his troubles. <a href="/ezekiel/20-32.htm">Ezekiel 20:32</a> When you say, ‘Let us be like the nations, like the peoples of the lands, serving wood and stone,’ what you have in mind will never come to pass. <a href="/hosea/4-12.htm">Hosea 4:12</a> My people consult their wooden idols, and their divining rods inform them. For a spirit of prostitution leads them astray and they have played the harlot against their God.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, even as you were led.that.<a href="/1_corinthians/6-11.htm">1 Corinthians 6:11</a> And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.<a href="/galatians/4-8.htm">Galatians 4:8</a> Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.<a href="/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11,12</a> Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; … dumb.<a href="/psalms/115-5.htm">Psalm 115:5,7</a> They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: … <a href="/psalms/135-16.htm">Psalm 135:16</a> They have mouths, but they speak not; eyes have they, but they see not;<a href="/habakkuk/2-18.htm">Habakkuk 2:18,19</a> What profiteth the graven image that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, and a teacher of lies, that the maker of his work trusteth therein, to make dumb idols? … even.<a href="/matthew/15-14.htm">Matthew 15:14</a> Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.<a href="/1_peter/1-18.htm">1 Peter 1:18</a> Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/john/16-1.htm">Astray</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-4.htm">Carried</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-29.htm">Conscious</a> <a href="/acts/9-7.htm">Dumb</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-32.htm">Gentiles</a> <a href="/romans/8-14.htm">Guided</a> <a href="/acts/4-25.htm">Heathen</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-31.htm">However</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-7.htm">Howsoever</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-28.htm">Idols</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-19.htm">Images</a> <a href="/acts/13-50.htm">Influenced</a> <a href="/romans/8-14.htm">Led</a> <a href="/romans/11-14.htm">Moved</a> <a href="/luke/11-14.htm">Mute</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-1.htm">Nations</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Pagans</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-10.htm">Power</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-9.htm">Somehow</a> <a href="/romans/15-6.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-25.htm">Way</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-31.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/romans/9-18.htm">Wherever</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/15-33.htm">Astray</a> <a href="/galatians/2-13.htm">Carried</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">Conscious</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-16.htm">Dumb</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-13.htm">Gentiles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-17.htm">Guided</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-26.htm">Heathen</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-11.htm">However</a> <a href="/judges/19-20.htm">Howsoever</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-16.htm">Idols</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-16.htm">Images</a> <a href="/acts/13-50.htm">Influenced</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-33.htm">Led</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-2.htm">Moved</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-16.htm">Mute</a> <a href="/galatians/1-16.htm">Nations</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-12.htm">Pagans</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-9.htm">Power</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-3.htm">Somehow</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-7.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-24.htm">Way</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-2.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-6.htm">Wherever</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 12</div>1. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-1.htm">Spiritual gifts,</a> 4. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-4.htm">are diverse,</a> 7. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-7.htm">yet to profit all.</a> 8. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-8.htm">And to that end are diversely bestowed;</a> 12. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-12.htm">as the members of a natural body tend all to the mutual decency,</a> 22. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-22.htm">service,</a> 26. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-26.htm">and helpfulness of the same body;</a> 27. <a href="/1_corinthians/12-27.htm">so we should do for one another, to make up the body of Christ.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/12.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_corinthians/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>You know that when you were pagans This phrase addresses the Corinthian believers' past before their conversion to Christianity. The term "pagans" refers to Gentiles who were outside the covenant community of Israel and engaged in polytheistic worship. In the Greco-Roman world, Corinth was a city known for its diverse religious practices and numerous temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses. This context highlights the radical transformation the Corinthians experienced upon embracing the Christian faith. The acknowledgment of their past serves as a reminder of the grace and redemption they received through Christ, aligning with passages like <a href="/ephesians/2-11.htm">Ephesians 2:11-13</a>, which speaks of Gentiles being brought near by the blood of Christ.you were influenced and led astray The phrase "influenced and led astray" suggests a passive state where the Corinthians were subject to external forces that directed their spiritual lives. This reflects the pervasive influence of the cultural and religious environment in Corinth, where idol worship was prevalent. The language implies a lack of control or awareness, indicating that their previous spiritual state was one of deception and bondage. This aligns with the biblical theme of spiritual blindness and the need for enlightenment through the Holy Spirit, as seen in passages like <a href="/2_corinthians/4-4.htm">2 Corinthians 4:4</a>, where the god of this age blinds the minds of unbelievers.to mute idols The term "mute idols" emphasizes the lifeless and powerless nature of the gods the Corinthians once worshiped. Unlike the living God who speaks and acts, these idols were silent and impotent, unable to provide guidance or salvation. This critique of idolatry is consistent with Old Testament passages such as <a href="/psalms/115-4.htm">Psalm 115:4-8</a> and <a href="/isaiah/44-9.htm">Isaiah 44:9-20</a>, which mock the futility of idol worship. The contrast between the mute idols and the living God underscores the transformative power of the gospel, which brings believers into a relationship with a God who communicates and interacts with His people. This transformation is a type of the new life in Christ, who is the true and living Word of God.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and diversity, but also for its moral and spiritual challenges. The church in Corinth was a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers. 2. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth to correct issues and provide guidance on spiritual matters. 3. <a href="/topical/p/paganism.htm">Paganism</a> Refers to the religious practices of the Gentiles in Corinth before they became Christians, often involving idol worship and rituals. 4. <a href="/topical/i/idols.htm">Idols</a> Objects of worship in pagan religions, often made of wood, stone, or metal, and considered "mute" because they cannot speak or act. 5. <a href="/topical/c/corinthian_church.htm">Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and misunderstanding of spiritual gifts.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_our_past.htm">Understanding Our Past</a> Recognize that before coming to Christ, we were all led astray by various influences. Reflect on how God has transformed your life. <a href="/topical/t/the_futility_of_idolatry.htm">The Futility of Idolatry</a> Idols are "mute" and powerless. Consider what modern "idols" might be influencing your life today, such as materialism or status. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_discernment.htm">Spiritual Discernment</a> As believers, we must discern the influences in our lives and ensure they align with God's truth, not the empty promises of the world. <a href="/topical/t/transformation_in_christ.htm">Transformation in Christ</a> Embrace the new identity in Christ, leaving behind the old ways and being led by the Holy Spirit. <a href="/topical/u/unity_in_diversity.htm">Unity in Diversity</a> The Corinthian church was diverse, yet called to unity in Christ. Reflect on how you can contribute to unity within your church community.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 12</a> <a href="/q/what_does_religious_syncretism_mean.htm">What does religious syncretism mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_christianity's_apostolic_age.htm">What role does Satan play in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/proof_they_abandoned_idols_for_paul.htm">(1 Thess 1:9–10) Is there concrete proof that these alleged idol-worshipers truly abandoned their practices in response to Paul’s message?</a> <a href="/q/do_idols_in_jeremiah_10_conflict_with_other_texts.htm">Jeremiah 10:14-15: Does the portrayal of idols as complete falsehood conflict with other biblical texts that acknowledge spiritual powers behind foreign gods?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) Ye know that ye were Gentiles.--Better (according to the weight of MSS. evidence), Ye know that when ye were Gentiles ye were, &c. In this and the following verse the Apostle reminds his readers that so far from regarding the marvellous manifestations of the Spirit, such as speaking with tongues and prophesying, as the most wonderful miracles, the greatest miracle of all was their conversion. That blind followers of dumb idols should be transformed into intelligent believers in the living Word was the most striking work of the Spirit. They were now no longer led hither and thither by diverse teachings and diverse gods; they had an unchanging principle of life, and an unerring guide of conduct. The contrast of the present state of Christians with their former state as heathens is a topic of frequent occurrence in St. Paul's writings (<a href="/romans/11-30.htm" title="For as you in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:">Romans 11:30</a>; <a href="/colossians/1-21.htm" title=" And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now has he reconciled">Colossians 1:21</a>; <a href="/colossians/3-7.htm" title=" In the which you also walked some time, when you lived in them.">Colossians 3:7</a>, &c.).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - That ye were Gentiles. The undoubted reading is, that when ye were Gentiles. The sentence is then in form an anacoluthon; in other words, it is not grammatically finished. The ancients were much less particular about these small matters of precision and symmetry than the moderns; and writers who are deeply moved by their subject, and hurried along by the strength of their feelings, often fall into these unfinished constructions (see <a href="/romans/2-17.htm">Romans 2:17-21</a>; <a href="/romans/15-25.htm">Romans 15:25-27</a>; <a href="/galatians/2-6.htm">Galatians 2:6</a>; <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-3.htm">2 Thessalonians 2:3</a>, etc., in the Greek). Dumb idols. This characteristic of idols (<a href="/habakkuk/2-18.htm">Habakkuk 2:18</a>; <a href="/psalms/115-5.htm">Psalm 115:5</a>; <a href="/psalms/135-16.htm">Psalm 135:16</a>) is fixed upon to show that their "oracles" were mere falsity and pretence. We find an illustration of the epithet in the statue of Isis at Pompeii, where the ruined temple shows the secret stair by which the priest mounted to the back of the statue; and the head of the statue (preserved in the Museo Borbonico) shows the tube which went from the back of the head to the parted lips. Through this tube the priest concealed behind the statue spoke the answers of Isis. Even as ye were led; rather, howsoever ye might be led, as in the Revised Version. The Greek phrase shows that, under the oracular guidance of dumb idols, the Gentiles had been, as it were, drifted hither and thither "as the winds listed." <a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>You know Οἴδατε (Oidate) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. when ὅτε (hote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3753.htm">Strong's 3753: </a> When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When. you were ἦτε (ēte) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. pagans, ἔθνη (ethnē) Noun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1484.htm">Strong's 1484: </a> Probably from etho; a race, i.e. A tribe; specially, a foreign one. you were influenced ἤγεσθε (ēgesthe) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_71.htm">Strong's 71: </a> A primary verb; properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, go, pass, or induce. [and] led astray ἀπαγόμενοι (apagomenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_520.htm">Strong's 520: </a> To lead, carry, take away; met: To be led astray, seduced. From apo and ago; to take off. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. mute ἄφωνα (aphōna) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_880.htm">Strong's 880: </a> Soundless, voiceless, speechless, dumb. Figuratively, unmeaning. idols. εἴδωλα (eidōla) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1497.htm">Strong's 1497: </a> An idol, false god. From eidos; an image; by implication, a heathen god, or the worship of such. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">1 Corinthians 12:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-2.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 12:2 You know that when you were heathen (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/12-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 12:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 12:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/12-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 12:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 12:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>