Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Corinthians 2:12

"But we received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is from God; that we might know the things that were freely given to us of God." — 1 Corinthians 2:12 (ASV)

Now we have received: we who are Christians, and especially we the apostles. The following verse shows that he had himself and the other apostles chiefly in view, though it is true of all Christians that they have received, not the spirit of this world, but the Spirit which is of God.

Not the spirit of the world. Not the wisdom and knowledge which this world can give; not the learning and philosophy which were so much valued in Greece. The views of truth which we have are not such as this world gives, but are such as are communicated by the Spirit of God.

But the Spirit which is of God. We are under the teachings and influence of the Holy Spirit.

That we might know. That we might fully understand and appreciate. The Spirit is given to us so that we might fully understand the favors which God has conferred on us in the gospel.

It was not only necessary that God should grant the blessings of redemption by the gift of His Son; but, so great was the hardness and blindness of the human heart, it was also necessary that He grant His Holy Spirit, so that people might be brought to fully see and appreciate the value of those favors. For people do not see them by nature, nor does anyone see them who is not enlightened by the Holy Spirit of God.

The things that are freely given us. That are conferred on us as a matter of grace or favor. Here he refers to the blessings of redemption: the pardon of sin, justification, sanctification, the Divine favor and protection, and the hope of eternal life. These things we know; they are not matters of conjecture, but are surely and certainly confirmed to us by the Holy Spirit. It is possible for all Christians to know and be fully assured of the truth of those things, and of their interest in them.