1 Corinthians 3:18

Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

Deceive himself. The Greek implies that deceived persons, such as are here described, were parading their wisdom in the Corinthian church. Paul urged these self-deluded, self-styled “wise” members to practice humility and to cease relying upon their supposed wisdom (cf. Prov. 3:5, 6). Their dependence upon their own learning and knowledge had led to the confusion that existed in the church. Those who have the reputation among men of being wise are in particular danger of self-exaltation, and need to humble themselves before God in grateful acknowledgment that all true wisdom comes from Him.

Seemeth to be wise. Rather, “thinks that he is wise.”

Become a fool. Both in his own eyes and in the eyes of the world. Let him realize that his opinion of himself as a wise man is a deception, and that his so-called wisdom is valueless in relation to salvation. Let him humbly submit himself to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, even though he may be regarded by the world as a fool. If he does this, then he will obtain true wisdom, that which comes from God alone.