Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Corinthians 1:29

"that no flesh should glory before God." — 1 Corinthians 1:29 (ASV)

That no flesh. This means no human beings, no particular group of people. The word "flesh" is often used in this way to refer to human beings (for example, Matthew 24:22; Luke 3:6; John 17:2; Acts 2:17; 1 Peter 1:24; and so on).

Should glory. Meaning, should boast (Romans 3:27).

In his presence. That is, before Him. The intention is that no one should really have anything to boast about; instead, the entire plan is designed to humble and subdue them. On these verses, we may observe the following:

1. It is to be expected that the great majority of Christian converts will be found among those who are of humble life; and it may also be observed that true virtue and excellence, honesty, sincerity, and amiableness are usually found there as well.
2. While the majority of Christians are found in humble circumstances, there are also those of noble birth, rank, and wealth who become Christians. The aggregate of those from elevated ranks and with distinguished talents who have become Christians has not been small. It is enough to refer to names such as Pascal, Bacon, Boyle, Newton, Locke, Hale, and Wilberforce to show that religion can command the homage of the most illustrious genius and rank.
3. The reasons why those of rank and wealth often do not become Christians are many and obvious:
   • They face particular temptations.
   • They are usually satisfied with rank and wealth, and do not feel their need for a hope of heaven.
   • They are surrounded by objects that flatter their vanity, minister to their pride, and draw them into a circle of alluring and tempting pleasures.
   • They are drawn away from the means of grace and places of prayer by fashion, business, and temptation.
   • There is something about the pride of learning and philosophy that usually makes those who possess it unwilling to sit at the feet of Christ, to acknowledge their dependence on any power, and to confess that they are poor, needy, blind, and naked before God.
4. The gospel is designed to produce humility and to place all people on the same level regarding salvation. There is no royal road to the favor of God. No monarch is saved because he is a monarch; no philosopher because he is a philosopher; no rich person because they are rich; no poor person because they are poor. All are placed on the same level. All are to be saved in the same way. All are to become willing to give the entire glory to God. All are to acknowledge Him as providing the plan and as furnishing the grace that is necessary for salvation. God’s design is to bring down human pride and to produce everywhere a willingness to acknowledge Him as the Fountain of blessings and the God of all.