1 Corinthians 3:20

3:20 And again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” ¹ 

1 Corinthians 9:19

9:19 For since I am free from all I can make myself a slave to all, in order to gain even more people. ² 

1 Corinthians 11:10

11:10 For this reason a woman should have a symbol of authority ³  on her head, because of the angels. ⁴ 

1 Corinthians 16:18

16:18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours. So then, recognize people like this.

[3:20]  ¹ sn A quotation from Ps 94:11.

[9:19]  ² tn Or “more converts.” The word “people” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. It has been supplied in the translation to clarify the meaning.

[11:10]  ³ sn Paul does not use a word specifying what type of “covering” is meant (veil, hat, etc.). The Greek word he uses here (ἐξουσία exousia; translated symbol of authority) could be (1) a figure of speech that may substitute the result (the right to participate in worship) for the appropriate appearance that makes it possible (the covered head). Or (2) it refers to the outward symbol (having the head covered) as representing the inward attitude the woman is to possess (deference to male leadership in the church).

[11:10]  ⁴ sn Paul does not explain this reference to the angels, and its point is not entirely clear. It seems to reflect an awareness that angels are witnesses to church life (cf. Eph 3:10) and would be particularly sensitive to resistance against God’s created order.