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NASB | 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]. |
Bible Question: When will we have "perfect" knowledge? Is this talking about when Jesus (the perfect one)returns or perfect meaning completed revelation (when God finsihed giving revelation to His Apostles)? |
Bible Answer: 1 Corinthians 13:10-12 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. The context makes it clear that it is talking about when we see Him face to face. Now whether it is talking about when you die and go to be with Him or when He comes again to wrap everything up and usher us into that eternal reality of the Hope we have is a question, but I think it is more likely that Promise of eternal perfection of the restoration of all things that Paul is speaking about. He is saying it as if everyone knows what he is talking about based on well established theology which would not be death so much as it would be the eternal promise of Glory in Christ. Now here is something that those who would try and fit the writing of the Bible into this passage. "Now we know in part." Paul the Holy Spirit inspired writer knows only in part. By the time John finished Revelation Paul was dead. And so Paul did not find the promise of knowing all things or the "then face to face" at the completion of Revelation becuase he was not here. As wonderful and perfect as the Scriptures are, we still know in part. And what we do know causes us to look longingly for Him to come and make us to know all things in Him. God Bless you as you Study His Word. |