Interpreting 1 Cor. 1:28

Can you help with the meaning of this phrase from I Cor. 1:28 “and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are”? I’ve read several commentaries, but this phrase eludes me. (I really like your site.)

Q. Can you help with the meaning of this phrase from I Cor 1:28 “and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are”? I’ve read several commentaries, but this phrase eludes me. (I really like your site.)

A. I think Paul was referring to something that can’t be seen (faith) which has greater significance than something that can (works) as the basis for our salvation so that no one can boast before him, as he explained in verse 29.

Our good works can be judged by others, leading them to express a favorable opinion about our righteousness. But the real measure of our salvation is faith in the Lord’s work on our behalf. That’s something no one but the Lord can judge, and its absence will bring all of our good works to naught.