1 Corinthians 14:20

Brethren. A common form of address with Paul (see on ch. 1:10).

Children. The Corinthians took great pride in their wisdom (see chs. 1:20; 8:1, 2). They exulted in their intellectual attainments, but they had been behaving childishly in relation to the gifts of the Spirit. They took more interest in gifts that were of a spectacular nature, such as tongues, than in those that worked more unobtrusively, and yet more effectively for the church, such as prophecy. By their conduct they were setting aside that superior intelligence that they gloried in, and descending to the level of childhood, because they were evaluating things by outward show. There is much of a trivial nature that occupies the time and attention of Christians, to the exclusion of worthwhile thinking and acting. Many things that assume much importance will be recognized as comparable to the playthings of children, when men are faced with the realities of the judgment.

Malice. Gr. kakia, “badness,” “wickedness,” “depravity,” “malignity.” With respect to this quality, little children may be regarded as being most innocent. This is the attitude that will be seen in all who are filled with the spirit of Jesus.

By ye children. Gr. nepiazo, “to be babes.” This word indicates a more infantile state than paidia, the word translated “children” in the preceding clause. It suggests that truly newborn Christians will not have an experimental acquaintance with the moral corruption in the world. Probably this innocence in regard to “malice” is part of what Jesus had in mind when He stated that likeness to children is essential for all who would enter heaven (see Matt. 18:3).

Men. Gr. teleioi, “full grown,” “mature,” “of full age.” In your minds prove yourselves to be adults.