A common misinterpretation applies 'that which is perfect' solely to the completion of the biblical canon around the first century, arguing that miraculous gifts like tongues and prophecy ceased entirely then, ignoring the chapter's eschatological context of future perfection and the progression to verses 11-12 which describe maturity beyond childish ways into full maturity at Christ's return; another error downplays the verse's implication of ongoing partial knowledge in the present age, suggesting all gifts have already fully transitioned.
I Corinthians 13:10
King James Version (1769)
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
In the context of 1 Corinthians 13, this verse highlights the temporary nature of partial spiritual gifts like prophecy and tongues compared to enduring love, indicating that when the perfect or complete reality arrives—understood by many as Christ's second coming or the eternal state—these incomplete revelations will cease, giving way to full knowledge and direct communion with God as described in the following verses about seeing face to face and knowing fully.