1 Corinthians 15:10
But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
1 Corinthians 15:10 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse highlights the importance of God's grace in shaping our lives and guiding our actions. It acknowledges that without the grace of God, we are nothing, emphasizing that everything we are and everything we accomplish is due to His grace. The verse also stresses the idea that even though we may work hard and put in effort, it is ultimately God's grace that enables us to succeed. It serves as a reminder to remain humble and recognize that our abilities and achievements are all gifts from God. The verse encourages believers to continue striving and laboring diligently, knowing that it is through God's grace that they are able to achieve great things. Overall, the verse conveys the message that our identities and accomplishments are ultimately defined by the grace of God.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the role of God's grace in shaping the life and work of the apostle Paul. The phrase "By the grace of God I am what I am" reflects Paul's recognition that his identity and abilities are ultimately gifts from God. The mention of laboring more abundantly than others underscores Paul's dedication to spreading the Gospel, but he is quick to attribute this success not to his own efforts, but to the grace of God working through him. This verse highlights the importance of acknowledging God's grace in all aspects of life and ministry, as it is through this divine assistance that believers are able to fulfill their calling and purpose.
1 Corinthians 15:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not found vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
World English Bible
But by the grace of God I am what I am. His grace which was bestowed on me was not futile, but I worked more than all of them; yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Douay-Rheims
But by the grace of God, I am what I am. And his grace in me hath not been void: but I have laboured more abundantly than all they. Yet not I, but the grace of God with me:
Geneva Bible (1599)
But by the grace of God, I am that I am: and his grace which is in me, was not in vaine: but I laboured more aboundantly then they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which is with me.