1Cor 8:4-6 | JFB | STEP | 4. As concerning, &c.-- resuming the subject begun in , "As touching," &c. idol is nothing-- has no true being at all, the god it represents is not a living reality. This does not contradict , which states that they who worship idols, worship devils; for here it is the Gods believed by the worshippers to be represented by the idols which are denied to have any existence, not the devils which really under the idols delude the worshippers. none other God-- The oldest manuscripts omit the word "other"; which gives a clearer sense.

‏ 1 Corinthians 8:4-6

4. As concerning, &c.--resuming the subject begun in 1Co 8:1, "As touching," &c.

idol is nothing--has no true being at all, the god it represents is not a living reality. This does not contradict 1Co 10:20, which states that they who worship idols, worship devils; for here it is the Gods believed by the worshippers to be represented by the idols which are denied to have any existence, not the devils which really under the idols delude the worshippers.

none other God--The oldest manuscripts omit the word "other"; which gives a clearer sense.

5. "For even supposing there are (exist) gods so called (2Th 2:4), whether in heaven (as the sun, moon, and stars) or in earth (as deified kings, beasts, &c.), as there be (a recognized fact, De 10:17; Psa 135:5; 136:2) gods many and lords many." Angels and men in authority are termed gods in Scripture, as exercising a divinely delegated power under God (compare Ex 22:9, with Ex 22:28; Psa 82:1, 6; Joh 10:34, 35).

6. to us--believers.

of whom--from whom as Creator all things derive their existence.

we in him--rather, "we for Him," or "unto Him." God the Father is the end for whom and for whose glory believers live. In Col 1:16 all things are said to be created (not only "by" Christ, but also) "for Him" (Christ). So entirely are the Father and Son one (compare Ro 11:36; He 2:10).

one Lord--contrasted with the "many lords" of heathendom (1Co 8:5).

by whom--(Joh 1:3; He 1:2).

we by him--as all things are "of" the Father by creation, so they (we believers especially) are restored to Him by the new creation (Col 1:20; Re 21:5). Also, as all things are by Christ by creation, so they (we especially) are restored by Him by the new creation.