John Calvin Reformed @genevareformer

5. For though there be that are called “They have,” says he, “the name, but the reality is wanting.” He uses the word called here, to mean — renowned in the estimation of men He has also made use of a general division, when he says in heaven or on earth The gods that are made mention of as being in heaven, are the heavenly...

Matthew Henry Presbyterian @wholebiblehenry

In this passage he shows the vanity of idols: As to the eating of things that have been sacrificed to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world; or, there is no idol in the world; or, an idol can do nothing in the world: for the form of expression in the original is elliptical.

Commenting on 1 Corinthians 8:4-6

John Gill Reformed Baptist @doctorgill

For though there be that are called gods,.... That are so by name, though not by nature; who are called so in Scripture, as angels and magistrates, or by men, who give them such names, and account them so: whether in heaven; as the sun, moon, and stars: or in earth; as men who formerly lived on earth; or various creatures on earth, who have...