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"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard..."

Text: 1 Corinthians 2:9

WHO THEN MAY OBTAIN WISDOM?

It is natural to search for wisdom. No one would like to remain ignorant and foolish. However, the path to wisdom is not found in mere academic studies, or in positions of authority!

“But as it is written:
‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared
for those who love Him.”
1 Corinthians 2:9

1. “But as it is written”

a) This is a reference to the Scriptures.

b) The text cited is drawn from Isaiah 64:3-5.

c) This text focuses mainly on Isaiah 64:4 but it is best to read the other verses as well.

d) The significance of citing the Scriptures.

i) Source of thought and understanding

ii) Authority from the Lord

2. “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man”

a) Ear, eyes, heart

i) This is a reference to the natural environment of man.

ii) Through the use of these normal things man gains wisdom for life.

b) These must not be disdained.

Man must use all the faculties God has already provided to obtain wisdom.

3. “The things which God has prepared”

a) Wisdom is only one of the things that God can bestow on man.

b) He does “awesome things” (Isaiah 64:3).

c) The Lord meets with the man who is righteous (Isaiah 64:5).

d) He gives needed salvation (Isaiah 64:5).

4. “For those who love Him”

a) Deuteronomy 6:4-5 may well be in Paul’s mind.

b) Isaiah 64 focuses on slightly different features (but they reflect true love for the Lord).

i) The man who loves the LORD waits upon Him (Isaiah 64:4).

ii) He also seeks to live righteously (Isaiah 64:5).