1 Corinthians 14:38 – “But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored.”

Extended Explanation

This verse serves as a strong warning from Paul to those who refuse to accept his teachings about order in worship. In the previous verse (1 Corinthians 14:37), Paul stated that his instructions were not just his personal opinions but commands from the Lord. Now, he makes it clear that if anyone disregards these commands, they will face consequences.

The phrase “if anyone ignores this” refers to those who reject Paul’s instructions about proper conduct in church gatherings. Some in Corinth may have thought that they could worship however they wanted, without submitting to biblical teaching. Paul warns that if they continue to reject God’s order, they will be ignored or disregarded themselves.

What does “they will themselves be ignored” mean? It could mean:

1. God will not recognize or approve of them because they are refusing to submit to His commands.
2. The church will not acknowledge them as faithful teachers or leaders since they reject sound doctrine.
3. Their words and actions will have no real spiritual impact because they are working against God’s order.

Either way, Paul is making it clear that disobedience to God’s instructions leads to consequences.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was known for its pride and disorder. Some members were using their spiritual gifts in ways that caused confusion rather than building up the church.

• People were speaking in tongues without interpretation (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
• Multiple prophets were speaking at the same time, creating disorder (1 Corinthians 14:29-31).
• Certain women were speaking out in a disruptive way, rather than learning in submission (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).

Some members may have resisted Paul’s correction, thinking they knew better or that they didn’t need to follow his rules. Paul warns them that if they ignore his instructions, they will face consequences—both from the church and from God.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important spiritual truths:

1. God’s Word must be obeyed. Ignoring biblical instruction leads to consequences.
2. Spiritual pride leads to deception. When people reject sound doctrine, they become spiritually blind.
3. God holds people accountable for disobedience. Those who reject His commands will face His judgment.
4. Church discipline is necessary. Those who refuse to obey biblical teaching should not be recognized as spiritual leaders.

This verse is a serious warning that God does not tolerate rebellion against His Word. Those who reject His instructions disqualify themselves from being recognized as true spiritual authorities.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses strong, straightforward language in this verse.

• The phrase “if anyone ignores this” shows that disobedience is a choice. People choose whether to submit to God’s Word or reject it.
• The phrase “they will themselves be ignored” emphasizes the consequences of rebellion. If someone refuses to listen to God’s truth, they will eventually find themselves without spiritual influence or authority.

This verse echoes other biblical warnings that rejecting God’s truth leads to spiritual consequences. Paul is making it clear that God’s commands are not up for debate—they must be followed.

Biblical Cross-References

• Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Rejecting God’s wisdom leads to disaster.)
• Matthew 7:23 – “Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” (Jesus warns that those who reject His truth will be turned away.)
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (God’s Word is meant to correct us, not be ignored.)
• Titus 3:10-11 – “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.” (Church discipline is necessary for those who reject biblical instruction.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For modern believers, this verse is a warning against spiritual stubbornness. Many today pick and choose which parts of the Bible they want to follow, ignoring the parts they don’t like. Paul reminds us that God’s Word is not optional. If we reject it, we separate ourselves from God’s blessing and wisdom.

This verse also emphasizes the importance of church accountability. If someone refuses to follow biblical teaching, the church has a responsibility not to endorse or recognize them as a leader. We should not tolerate false teaching or disorderly worship just to avoid conflict.

Most importantly, this verse calls believers to humility and obedience. Instead of arguing against God’s commands, we should submit to them, trusting that they are for our good.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first, this verse might seem harsh, but it actually shows God’s love and justice.

• God’s love is seen in His warnings. He does not let people continue in rebellion without consequences. He warns them so they have a chance to repent.
• God’s justice ensures that His church stays pure. He does not allow false teachers or disorderly worship to take over His church.
• God’s love calls us to obedience. He gives us His Word so that we can follow Him in truth and holiness.

Ignoring God’s instructions leads to spiritual separation, but following them leads to blessing and life.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus often warned against rejecting God’s Word.

• John 12:48 – “There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.” (Jesus says His words will judge those who ignore them.)
• Luke 6:46 – “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Jesus expects obedience, not just words.)
• Matthew 7:26-27 – “But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.” (Ignoring God’s Word leads to destruction.)

Jesus taught that rejecting God’s truth leads to consequences. Paul’s warning in 1 Corinthians 14:38 follows the same principle—if we ignore God’s Word, we place ourselves outside His will and blessing.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about the importance of obeying God’s Word?
2. Why do you think some people resist biblical authority and refuse correction?
3. How can we make sure we are not ignoring God’s commands in our own lives?
4. What role should the church play in holding people accountable to biblical truth?
5. How does Jesus’ teaching reinforce Paul’s warning in this verse?

This verse is a strong reminder that God’s commands are not suggestions. We are called to follow them, not ignore them. Those who refuse to submit to God’s truth cut themselves off from His wisdom, authority, and blessing. Instead, we should humbly obey, trusting that God’s ways are always best.