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Recognizing Wisdom

Paul wrote the Corinthians admonishing them for taking their disputes before unbelievers (1Cor 6:1). He further asks them if they didn’t have anyone in their church who had wisdom to be able to settle the matter (1Cor 6:5). This raises an interesting question, how does one discern who is wise? Most churches would automatically default to the pastor as the one who is wise because of his seminary education. While most pastors would not discourage such assumptions, exposure to education is not necessarily the best determination of truth much less wisdom.

James describes God as offering wisdom to all who ask in faith (James 1:5-6). Sadly, this offer is not often accepted. To be able to recognize wisdom in others, one has to first rid themselves of false measures of wisdom such as education, social position, or charismatic personality. The first step in seeking wisdom in others is to ask it for yourself.

There is a close relationship between humility, truth, and wisdom such that a deficiency of one hinders the others. The Corinthians were famously immature (1Cor 3:1-3). This is perhaps why they were unable to select from their church even one who had wisdom. Even if there was one, he might not be discernable to the immature.

Most people in most churches see the Christian life as one of fulfilling requirements. Those on a path to maturity (Christ-likeness) can see that path as setting aside self interests, ambitions, and desires so that the fruit of the Spirit can be seen in them (Gal 5:22-23). Since so few grow past the superficial, anyone seeking to recognize wisdom may not be able to rely on what a group has decided. This leaves the individual seeking to identify another individual, not for the purpose of serving the group interest with his wisdom, but being able to help the seeking individual on his path of seeking his own maturity.

In a church environment one can observe many people busily hurrying to accomplish various tasks. One may also observe someone who shows the light and love of Christ in selfless ministering to another such as caring for children, helping the elderly, or otherwise avoiding prominence. In conversation with such a one, it may be possible to discern what is held in the heart (Matt 12:34).

Much can be learned from studying the book of Proverbs which often contrasts wisdom with foolishness. Perhaps less often considered is the application of love to wisdom. To differentiate the worldly view of love which is often based on how one feels from biblical love, we should consider the biblical definition of love as selflessness (1Cor 13:4-7). We can see the application of this with the Corinthians when Paul asks, “Why not suffer the loss” (1Cor 6:7).

Discernment is sharpened through exercise (Heb 5:14). The TV news seems to offer an almost endless parade of the worlds foolishness and lies. This should be an opportunity to exercise discernment. Daily prayers should include asking for wisdom. Growing in the knowledge of God’s word can draw one closer to God, the source of wisdom. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us by mortifying the deeds of the flesh (Rom 8:13, Col 3:5) also contributes to being able to receive wisdom.

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. - 1 Corinthians 3:19

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