Definition: For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 3:19. It’s a really interesting and profound statement about the relationship between believers and those who don’t believe. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse basically says that the wisdom and understanding of the world – the things we experience daily, the knowledge and opinions of people around us – is foolish when compared to what God possesses. It's like comparing a flickering candle to the sun. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "For the wisdom of this world..." - This refers to the human intellect, our understanding gained through experience, education, and culture. It includes things like science, philosophy, and practical knowledge. "...is foolishness with God." – God is perfect, all-knowing, and sovereign. His wisdom isn't limited by human understanding or opinions. It’s completely above our comprehension. "For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness." - This is the core of the message. It means that God takes the cleverness, the skill, and the ability to understand things – the "craftiness" of humans – and uses it against them. It's not about being tricked or manipulated; it’s about recognizing that human knowledge isn’t always reliable or truthful. What does this mean for us? We shouldn't rely on our own understanding: It’s important to remember that we are prone to error and misinterpretations. Don't assume you know everything! Trust in God's wisdom: It encourages us to trust in the guidance and truth of God, who is always right and perfect. Discernment is key: It’s a call to be discerning – to carefully evaluate information and not blindly accept what we hear or read. In short, the verse warns against being overly confident in human knowledge and urges us to seek understanding from God. Think of it like this analogy: Imagine someone who's a brilliant puzzle solver. They can piece together complex puzzles and find hidden answers. But if they start relying solely on their own cleverness without considering the whole picture, they might make mistakes or get lost. God’s wisdom is far more profound and complete than any human ability. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to everyday life?