1 Corinthians 14:20
“Brothers, don’t be children in thoughts, yet in malice be babies, but in thoughts be mature.”
What does 1 Corinthians 14:20 mean?
Paul is asking the Corinthian church to grow up in how they think about spiritual things, while keeping something childlike about their character. He's saying: develop wisdom and understanding about faith, don't stay stuck in confusion or immature reasoning. At the same time, maintain the innocence and simplicity of a baby when it comes to evil and harm, meaning don't get caught up in plotting, scheming, or hurting others. It's a call to balance: sharp and discerning in your mind, but pure and uncomplicated in your heart. If you find yourself more interested in winning arguments than understanding truth, or more focused on what others are doing wrong than on your own growth, this verse gently invites you to flip that around.