Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 1:26

"For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called]:" — 1 Corinthians 1:26 (ASV)

Having contrasted God’s strength and human weakness, Paul now speaks about the circumstances under which God has called his people. The word “called” stresses his dynamic drawing of his people to himself (Romans 11:29; Ephesians 1:18). Not many of them were of the intellectual-philosopher class (i.e., wise according to human standards), nor of the politically powerful, nor of the upper level of society. By these three terms, Paul has given the sweep of all that humans count as socially, politically, and intellectually important.

Instead, God has chosen from the world those who seem foolish, weak, and helpless so that he might put to shame the wise and powerful by showing how temporary and insignificant to salvation their achievements are. In his grace he has showered his mercy on them and made them strong and wise in Christ.