If any of you has a grievance against another
This phrase addresses disputes among believers, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts within the Christian community. In the early church, believers were expected to live in harmony, reflecting the unity of the body of Christ. The concept of grievances is rooted in the Old Testament, where disputes were often settled within the community (Exodus 18:13-26). This reflects the biblical principle of seeking reconciliation and peace among God's people.

how dare he go to law before the unrighteous
The term "unrighteous" refers to secular courts and judges who do not adhere to Christian values. In the Greco-Roman world, legal disputes were common, and the courts were often seen as corrupt or biased. Paul challenges the Corinthians to consider the spiritual implications of taking their disputes before non-believers, as it could damage the church's witness. This echoes Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18:15-17, where He instructs believers to resolve conflicts within the church.

instead of before the saints!
"Saints" refers to the believers, those set apart by God. Paul emphasizes the authority and wisdom of the church community in handling disputes. The early church functioned as a family, and issues were ideally resolved internally, reflecting the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit. This aligns with the concept of the church as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27), where each member plays a role in maintaining unity and peace. The call to bring matters before the saints underscores the church's role in governance and spiritual discernment.

Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?
This phrase highlights the future role of believers in God's kingdom. The concept of saints judging the world is rooted in eschatological teachings found in both the Old and New Testaments. Daniel 7:22 speaks of the "Ancient of Days" coming and judgment being given to the saints. In the New Testament, Revelation 20:4-6 describes the saints reigning with Christ during the millennial kingdom. This role of judgment is not about condemnation but about ruling and administering God's justice. The term "saints" refers to all believers, emphasizing their sanctified status through Christ. This future responsibility underscores the dignity and authority bestowed upon believers, encouraging them to live righteously in the present.

And if you are to judge the world,
This phrase reinforces the certainty of the saints' future role. The use of "if" is rhetorical, affirming the truth of the statement. The context of 1 Corinthians 6 is addressing disputes among believers in Corinth, urging them to resolve issues internally rather than seeking secular courts. The assurance of future judgment responsibilities serves as a reminder of the wisdom and discernment believers are expected to cultivate. This expectation is consistent with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 19:28, where He promises the apostles they will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. The phrase challenges believers to reflect on their spiritual maturity and readiness for such a role.

are you not competent to judge trivial cases?
Here, Paul contrasts the significant future role of judging the world with the relatively minor disputes among believers. The term "trivial cases" refers to everyday disagreements and legal matters that should be resolved within the Christian community. This reflects the early church's emphasis on unity and self-governance, as seen in Acts 6:1-7, where the apostles appointed deacons to handle practical matters. The rhetorical question implies that believers, endowed with the Holy Spirit and guided by Scripture, possess the necessary wisdom to resolve such issues. This competence is not based on human ability but on the transformative work of Christ and the indwelling Spirit, as highlighted in passages like 1 John 2:20, which speaks of the anointing that teaches believers all things.

Do you not know that we will judge angels?
This phrase suggests a future role for believers in the eschatological judgment. The concept of judging angels is not extensively detailed in Scripture, but it implies a position of authority and responsibility granted to the saints. This idea aligns with the broader biblical theme of believers sharing in Christ's reign (Revelation 20:4-6). The notion of judging angels may refer to fallen angels, as suggested by Jude 1:6, where it speaks of angels who did not keep their positions of authority. The rhetorical question "Do you not know" indicates that this was a teaching Paul expected the Corinthians to understand, possibly from previous instruction or common early Christian teaching. This reflects the high status and dignity bestowed upon believers, contrasting with their current disputes and failures to resolve issues among themselves.

How much more the things of this life!
Paul uses a logical argument from the greater to the lesser. If believers are to judge angels, which is a significant and weighty responsibility, then they should certainly be capable of handling mundane, earthly matters. This phrase emphasizes the importance of wisdom and discernment in the Christian community. It challenges the Corinthians to rise above their petty disputes and to exercise the judgment and wisdom that will be required of them in the future. This also reflects the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized resolving conflicts within the community (Matthew 18:15-17). The phrase underscores the expectation that believers should live out their heavenly calling in practical ways, demonstrating the kingdom values in their daily lives.

So if you need to settle everyday matters,
This phrase addresses the practical issues that arise within the Christian community. In the context of the early church, believers were encouraged to handle disputes internally rather than relying on secular courts. This reflects the principle of Christian unity and the belief that the church, guided by the Holy Spirit, is equipped to resolve conflicts among its members. The phrase "everyday matters" suggests issues that are not of significant spiritual or moral consequence but rather mundane or civil disputes.

do you appoint as judges
The appointment of judges within the church context implies a structured approach to conflict resolution. In the Jewish tradition, elders and leaders were often called upon to judge disputes, as seen in Deuteronomy 1:16-17. The early church likely adopted a similar model, emphasizing wisdom and spiritual maturity over secular qualifications. This reflects the broader biblical theme of seeking godly wisdom, as highlighted in James 1:5.

those of no standing in the church?
This phrase challenges the practice of appointing individuals who lack spiritual authority or maturity to judge matters within the church. It underscores the importance of spiritual discernment and integrity in leadership roles. The term "no standing" suggests a lack of recognition or respect within the Christian community, which could undermine the authority and effectiveness of the judgment. This aligns with the biblical principle that leadership should be entrusted to those who are spiritually mature and respected, as seen in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.

I say this to your shame.
Paul addresses the Corinthian church with a tone of rebuke, highlighting their failure to live up to Christian standards. The concept of "shame" here is significant in the Greco-Roman world, where honor and shame were pivotal social values. Paul uses this language to emphasize the seriousness of their actions, which are contrary to the teachings of Christ. This rebuke is meant to provoke self-reflection and repentance, aligning with the biblical principle of accountability within the community of believers (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10).

Is there really no one among you wise enough
The question underscores the expectation that the church should possess wisdom, a theme prevalent throughout the Corinthian letters. In 1 Corinthians 1:24, Paul identifies Christ as the wisdom of God, suggesting that believers, being in Christ, should exhibit this wisdom. The rhetorical nature of the question implies that the church, endowed with spiritual gifts and knowledge (1 Corinthians 1:5), should be capable of resolving disputes internally. This reflects the Jewish tradition of settling matters within the community, as seen in Deuteronomy 1:13-15, where wise and discerning men were appointed as judges.

to arbitrate between his brothers?
The term "arbitrate" indicates a process of resolving disputes, which in the early church context, should be handled by spiritually mature individuals. The use of "brothers" emphasizes the familial relationship among believers, rooted in their shared faith in Christ. This familial bond is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are called to love and support one another (John 13:34-35). The failure to resolve disputes internally reflects a lack of spiritual maturity and undermines the witness of the church to the outside world, as seen in Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers in John 17:20-23.

Instead, one brother goes to law against another
In the early church, believers were encouraged to resolve disputes within the Christian community rather than resorting to secular courts. This reflects the principle of unity and love that should characterize the body of Christ. The term "brother" emphasizes the familial relationship among Christians, highlighting the expectation of mutual respect and reconciliation. The practice of taking legal action against a fellow believer contradicts the teachings of Jesus, who advocated for forgiveness and reconciliation (Matthew 18:15-17). The early church often appointed wise and spiritually mature members to mediate disputes, as seen in Acts 6:1-6, where the apostles appointed deacons to handle practical matters.

and this in front of unbelievers!
The presence of unbelievers in legal disputes between Christians was seen as damaging to the witness of the church. The early church was called to be a light to the world (Matthew 5:14-16), and public disputes could tarnish its reputation. In the Greco-Roman world, legal proceedings were often public spectacles, and Christians airing grievances in such settings could lead to ridicule and misunderstanding of the faith. This phrase underscores the importance of maintaining a testimony that reflects the transformative power of the gospel. The apostle Paul emphasizes the need for the church to demonstrate a higher standard of conduct, as seen in John 13:35, where Jesus states that love among believers will show the world they are His disciples.

The very fact that you have lawsuits among you
In the early church, particularly in Corinth, believers were taking their disputes to secular courts rather than resolving them within the church community. This practice was contrary to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized reconciliation and forgiveness (Matthew 5:23-24). The presence of lawsuits among believers indicated a failure to live out the principles of love and unity that are central to Christian teaching (John 13:34-35). The Corinthian church was situated in a city known for its litigious culture, reflecting the Greek and Roman legal systems that were prevalent at the time. This phrase highlights the contrast between the world's way of handling disputes and the biblical call to resolve conflicts within the body of Christ.

means that you are thoroughly defeated already
The use of the term "defeated" suggests a spiritual and moral failure rather than a legal one. The church's inability to resolve disputes internally was a sign of spiritual immaturity and a lack of understanding of their identity in Christ. This defeat is not just about losing a legal battle but about failing to uphold the values of the Kingdom of God. The early church was called to be a distinct community, set apart from the world (1 Peter 2:9), and their reliance on secular courts undermined their witness to the transformative power of the gospel.

Why not rather be wronged?
This rhetorical question challenges believers to consider the example of Christ, who endured suffering and injustice without retaliation (1 Peter 2:21-23). The call to be willing to suffer wrong for the sake of unity and peace reflects the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, where He instructed His followers to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39). This attitude of self-sacrifice and humility is a hallmark of Christian discipleship and is countercultural, especially in a society that values personal rights and retribution.

Why not rather be cheated?
Being willing to be cheated for the sake of maintaining peace and unity within the church community is a radical departure from the world's values. This echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of loving one's enemies and doing good to those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-31). The willingness to endure personal loss for the greater good of the community is a reflection of Christ's sacrificial love and serves as a powerful testimony to the watching world. This perspective challenges believers to prioritize relationships and the witness of the church over personal gain or justice.

Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong
This phrase highlights the moral failure of the Corinthian believers, who were expected to live by higher ethical standards. The Greek word for "cheat" implies defrauding or taking advantage of others, which was a common issue in the Corinthian church, reflecting the broader Greco-Roman culture where lawsuits and personal gain were prevalent. This behavior contradicts the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love and honesty (Matthew 5:37). The call to avoid wrongdoing is consistent with the Old Testament law, which forbids deceit and injustice (Leviticus 19:11).

even against your own brothers!
The term "brothers" refers to fellow believers, emphasizing the familial bond within the Christian community. This breach of trust is particularly grievous because it undermines the unity and love that should characterize the body of Christ (John 13:34-35). The early church was intended to be a counter-cultural community, distinct from the surrounding society's practices. Paul's rebuke here is a call to return to the principles of mutual respect and love, as seen in the early church's communal life (Acts 2:44-47). This failure to uphold these values within the church reflects a deeper spiritual issue that Paul addresses throughout his letters, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).

Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the importance of understanding spiritual truths. The "wicked" refers to those who live in persistent sin without repentance. In the context of Corinth, a city known for its moral depravity, this warning was particularly relevant. The "kingdom of God" signifies both the present spiritual reign of God in believers' hearts and the future eternal kingdom. This phrase echoes Jesus' teachings in Matthew 7:21-23, where He warns that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the kingdom, but only those who do the will of the Father.

Do not be deceived:
Paul warns against self-deception and false teachings that might suggest that one's actions do not affect their spiritual standing. This caution is crucial in a culture where moral relativism was prevalent, much like today. The warning aligns with Galatians 6:7, which states, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."

Neither the sexually immoral,
The term "sexually immoral" encompasses all forms of sexual behavior outside the bounds of biblical marriage between a man and a woman. In Corinth, temple prostitution and other sexual practices were common, making this admonition particularly pertinent. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching on sexual purity found in passages like Hebrews 13:4.

nor idolaters,
Idolatry, the worship of false gods, was rampant in Corinth, a city filled with temples to various deities. This warning extends beyond physical idols to anything that takes the place of God in one's life, as seen in Colossians 3:5, where covetousness is equated with idolatry. The first commandment in Exodus 20:3 underscores the importance of worshiping God alone.

nor adulterers,
Adultery, a violation of the marriage covenant, is condemned throughout Scripture. In a society where marital fidelity was often disregarded, this command reinforces the sanctity of marriage. Jesus expands on this in Matthew 5:27-28, teaching that even lustful thoughts constitute adultery in the heart.

nor men who submit to or perform homosexual acts,
This phrase addresses both passive and active participants in homosexual acts, reflecting the Greco-Roman context where such practices were not uncommon. The biblical stance on homosexuality is consistent, as seen in Leviticus 18:22 and Romans 1:26-27, which describe such acts as contrary to God's design for human sexuality. The call is for repentance and transformation through Christ, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 6:11, which speaks of believers being washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

nor thieves
In the biblical context, theft is condemned as a violation of the Eighth Commandment (Exodus 20:15). Thieves are those who take what does not belong to them, disregarding the rights and property of others. In the ancient world, theft was a common issue, often leading to severe punishments. The inclusion of thieves in this list highlights the importance of integrity and respect for others' possessions. The New Testament further emphasizes restitution and repentance for those who have stolen, as seen in the story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:8-9).

nor the greedy
Greed, or covetousness, is a deep-seated desire for more than one needs or deserves, often at the expense of others. It is condemned in the Tenth Commandment (Exodus 20:17) and is seen as idolatry in Colossians 3:5. In the Greco-Roman world, greed was often associated with the pursuit of wealth and power, leading to social inequality and injustice. The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of greed, urging believers to seek contentment and generosity (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

nor drunkards
Drunkenness is repeatedly condemned in Scripture as it leads to a loss of self-control and moral judgment (Proverbs 20:1, Ephesians 5:18). In the cultural context of Corinth, excessive drinking was often associated with pagan rituals and social gatherings. The Bible calls for sobriety and self-discipline, encouraging believers to be filled with the Spirit rather than wine. The story of Noah (Genesis 9:20-21) serves as an early example of the negative consequences of drunkenness.

nor verbal abusers
Verbal abuse, or reviling, involves using words to harm, insult, or belittle others. This behavior is contrary to the biblical call to love and edify one another (Ephesians 4:29). In the historical context, verbal abuse could lead to social discord and division within the community. Jesus taught the importance of words, warning that they reflect the heart's condition (Matthew 12:34-37). Believers are urged to speak truth in love and to build each other up.

nor swindlers
Swindlers are those who deceive or cheat others for personal gain. This behavior is condemned as it violates principles of honesty and justice. In the ancient world, swindling could involve fraudulent business practices or exploitation of the vulnerable. The Bible calls for fair dealings and integrity, as seen in the teachings of Proverbs (Proverbs 11:1). Jesus' cleansing of the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) reflects His disdain for those who exploit others for profit.

will inherit the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God is a central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's sovereign rule and the fulfillment of His promises. Inheriting the kingdom implies receiving eternal life and participating in God's redemptive plan. This phrase underscores the seriousness of the behaviors listed, as they are incompatible with the values of God's kingdom. The call to repentance and transformation is echoed throughout Scripture, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).

And that is what some of you were.
This phrase refers to the previous verses where Paul lists various sins and lifestyles that are contrary to the kingdom of God. The Corinthian church was composed of individuals who had lived in these ways before their conversion. This highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, emphasizing that no past sin is beyond the reach of God's grace. It also serves as a reminder of the diversity within the early church, which included people from various backgrounds and pasts.

But you were washed,
The term "washed" signifies spiritual cleansing, often associated with baptism, which symbolizes the washing away of sins. This cleansing is not merely external but represents an inner purification. In the Jewish tradition, ritual washing was common, but here it signifies a deeper, spiritual renewal. This aligns with passages like Titus 3:5, which speaks of the washing of regeneration.

you were sanctified,
Sanctification refers to being set apart for God's purposes. It is both a definitive act and a progressive process. At conversion, believers are sanctified, meaning they are declared holy and set apart. This is a common theme in Paul's writings, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 4:3, where sanctification is God's will for believers. It reflects the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life, conforming them to the image of Christ.

you were justified,
Justification is a legal term indicating that believers are declared righteous before God. This is a central doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing that righteousness is imputed to believers through faith in Christ, not by works. Romans 5:1 elaborates on this, stating that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. It underscores the completed work of Christ on the cross, which satisfies the demands of God's justice.

in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ
This phrase underscores the authority and power of Jesus in the believer's transformation. In biblical times, a name represented a person's character and authority. Acts 4:12 emphasizes that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus. This highlights the exclusivity of Christ as the mediator between God and humanity, and the source of all spiritual blessings.

and by the Spirit of our God.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's transformation, from conviction of sin to empowerment for holy living. The Spirit is the agent of regeneration and sanctification, as seen in passages like John 3:5 and Galatians 5:16-25. This phrase emphasizes the Trinitarian work in salvation, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all actively involved in the redemption and sanctification of believers.

“Everything is permissible for me,”
This phrase reflects a common saying among the Corinthians, possibly used to justify their actions. Paul acknowledges their claim but seeks to correct their understanding. The context is the Corinthian church, which was influenced by Greek culture, known for its philosophical ideas about freedom and the body. The phrase may have been used to justify behaviors that were not in line with Christian teachings. Paul emphasizes that Christian freedom is not a license to sin. This echoes Galatians 5:13, where Paul warns against using freedom as an opportunity for the flesh.

but not everything is beneficial.
Paul introduces a principle of discernment, highlighting that not all permissible actions are beneficial. This aligns with the biblical teaching of seeking what is edifying and constructive (1 Corinthians 10:23). The focus is on the impact of actions on oneself and the community. The idea of benefit is tied to spiritual growth and the well-being of the church body. This principle is consistent with the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, such as Proverbs, which emphasizes the pursuit of what is good and wise.

“Everything is permissible for me,”
Paul repeats the phrase to emphasize the need for careful consideration of actions. The repetition serves as a rhetorical device to draw attention to the issue of Christian liberty. It reflects the tension between freedom in Christ and the responsibility that comes with it. This mirrors the teaching in Romans 14:14-23, where Paul discusses the importance of not causing others to stumble through one's exercise of freedom.

but I will not be mastered by anything.
Paul asserts the importance of self-control and mastery over one's desires. This is a call to avoid being enslaved by habits or behaviors that can dominate one's life. The concept of mastery is significant in the Greco-Roman world, where self-control was a valued virtue. Paul’s teaching here aligns with the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, which includes self-control. It also reflects Jesus' teaching in John 8:34-36 about freedom from sin. The underlying message is that true freedom in Christ involves living under His lordship, not being dominated by worldly desires.

“Food for the stomach and the stomach for food,”
This phrase reflects a common saying in Corinth, emphasizing the natural relationship between food and the stomach. In the Greco-Roman world, such expressions were used to justify indulgence in physical appetites. The Corinthians, living in a city known for its moral laxity, might have used this logic to justify not only dietary choices but also sexual behaviors. The Apostle Paul challenges this mindset by pointing out that physical desires should not dictate moral behavior. This echoes Jesus' teaching in Matthew 15:17-20, where He distinguishes between physical and spiritual defilement.

but God will destroy them both.
Paul reminds the Corinthians of the temporary nature of physical needs and desires. The ultimate destruction of both food and the stomach underscores the transient nature of earthly life and its pleasures. This aligns with the eschatological perspective found throughout Scripture, such as in 2 Peter 3:10-13, where the temporary nature of the world is highlighted. The focus is shifted from the temporal to the eternal, urging believers to prioritize spiritual over physical concerns.

The body is not intended for sexual immorality,
In a city like Corinth, known for its temple to Aphrodite and associated sexual immorality, this statement is a direct challenge to the prevailing cultural norms. Paul emphasizes that the body has a higher purpose than fulfilling carnal desires. This teaching is consistent with the biblical view of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), meant to honor God. The call to purity is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, which instructs believers to abstain from sexual immorality.

but for the Lord,
Paul asserts that the body is meant to serve and glorify God. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where believers are called to honor God with their entire being. Romans 12:1-2 encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. The body, therefore, is not an instrument for sin but a vessel for worship and service to the Lord.

and the Lord for the body.
This phrase highlights the reciprocal relationship between the believer and Christ. The Lord's care and purpose for the body are evident in the resurrection, where believers are promised new, glorified bodies (Philippians 3:20-21). This assurance of redemption and transformation underscores the value and dignity of the human body. It also points to the indwelling presence of Christ, who empowers believers to live in holiness and purity, as seen in Galatians 2:20, where Paul speaks of Christ living in him.

By His power
This phrase emphasizes the omnipotence of God, highlighting His ability to perform acts beyond human capability. The power of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, seen in creation (Genesis 1:1), the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21), and the miracles of Jesus (Matthew 8:27). It underscores that the resurrection is not a natural event but a divine act.

God raised the Lord from the dead
This refers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a foundational event in Christian faith. The resurrection is documented in all four Gospels (Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20) and is central to the apostolic preaching in Acts (Acts 2:24, 3:15). It fulfills Old Testament prophecies such as Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12, which speak of the Messiah's victory over death. The resurrection is also a type of the future resurrection of believers, as Christ is the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20).

and He will raise us also
This promise of future resurrection for believers is a cornerstone of Christian hope. It is further elaborated in 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul discusses the resurrection body and the victory over death. This assurance is rooted in the union with Christ, as believers are spiritually united with Him in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:5). The future resurrection is also linked to the eschatological hope found in passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, where the dead in Christ will rise at His return. This promise provides comfort and encouragement to live a life of faithfulness, knowing that death is not the end.

Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?
This phrase emphasizes the believer's union with Christ, a central theme in Pauline theology. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul reiterates that believers are the body of Christ, each one a part of it. This union signifies a spiritual and mystical connection, where the physical body is not merely a vessel but an integral part of Christ's body. The concept of being "members" suggests a collective identity, where each believer contributes to the whole. Historically, Corinth was a city known for its immorality, and the temple of Aphrodite, with its temple prostitutes, was a prominent feature. This context highlights the radical nature of Paul's teaching, calling believers to a higher standard of holiness and separation from the prevalent cultural practices.

Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute?
Paul uses a rhetorical question to challenge the Corinthians' understanding of their spiritual identity. The act of uniting with a prostitute is not just a physical act but a spiritual violation of their union with Christ. In Genesis 2:24, the concept of two becoming one flesh is introduced, which Paul later references in Ephesians 5:31-32 to describe the profound mystery of Christ and the church. The cultural backdrop of Corinth, with its acceptance of sexual immorality, contrasts sharply with the biblical call to purity. This phrase underscores the seriousness of sexual sin, not just as a moral failing but as a spiritual breach.

Never!
Paul's emphatic rejection of the idea serves as a strong moral and theological rebuke. The Greek term used here, "mē genoito," is one of the strongest expressions of denial in the New Testament, often translated as "God forbid" in other versions. This reflects the absolute incompatibility of such actions with the believer's identity in Christ. The exclamation serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the transformative power of the gospel, which calls believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1). The use of such a strong negation highlights the gravity of the issue and the necessity for the Corinthians to realign their lives with the teachings of Christ.

Or don’t you know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body?
This phrase addresses the issue of sexual immorality, specifically the act of joining with a prostitute. In the context of Corinth, a city known for its rampant immorality and the presence of temple prostitution, this warning is particularly poignant. The phrase "unites himself" implies a deep, physical connection that goes beyond a mere transaction. The concept of becoming "one with her in body" highlights the spiritual and physical union that occurs during sexual intercourse, which is meant to be reserved for the sanctity of marriage. This teaching aligns with the biblical understanding of sexual purity and the sanctity of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The warning serves as a reminder of the consequences of sexual sin, which not only affects the individual but also defiles the body, which is meant to honor God.

For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.”
This phrase is a direct reference to Genesis 2:24, where God establishes the institution of marriage. The "one flesh" union is a divine ordinance that signifies the complete and exclusive union between a husband and wife. By invoking this scripture, Paul emphasizes the sacredness of the marital bond and the profound mystery of two becoming one. This union is not merely physical but also emotional and spiritual, reflecting the unity and intimacy intended by God. The misuse of this union through illicit relationships, such as with a prostitute, distorts and devalues the divine purpose of marriage. This teaching also foreshadows the relationship between Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:31-32, where the marital union is a type of the greater spiritual union between Christ and His bride. The call to purity and fidelity in marriage is a reflection of the covenantal faithfulness that God desires with His people.

But he who unites himself with the Lord
This phrase emphasizes the intimate relationship between a believer and the Lord. In the context of 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses issues of sexual immorality and the importance of spiritual purity. The idea of "uniting" with the Lord suggests a deep, personal commitment akin to a covenant relationship. This mirrors the Old Testament concept of Israel being united with God, as seen in passages like Hosea 2:19-20, where God speaks of betrothing Israel to Himself in faithfulness. The union with the Lord is not merely a physical or superficial connection but a profound spiritual bond.

is one with Him
The concept of being "one" with the Lord reflects the unity and oneness that Jesus prayed for in John 17:21, where He desires that believers may be one as He and the Father are one. This unity is not just a future hope but a present reality for those who are in Christ. It signifies a shared identity and purpose, aligning the believer's will with God's will. Historically, this idea of oneness would contrast sharply with the prevalent Greco-Roman religious practices, which often involved multiple deities and lacked the personal relationship that Christianity offers.

in spirit.
The phrase "in spirit" highlights the spiritual nature of this union, distinguishing it from physical or earthly connections. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in John 4:24, where He states that true worshipers must worship in spirit and truth. The spiritual union with the Lord transcends physical boundaries and is rooted in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, as described in passages like Romans 8:9-11. This spiritual connection is a foretaste of the eternal communion believers will experience with God, as prophesied in Revelation 21:3, where God will dwell with His people.

Flee from sexual immorality.
The directive to "flee" indicates urgency and the need for immediate action. In the Greco-Roman world, sexual immorality was rampant, often associated with pagan worship and temple prostitution. The term "sexual immorality" encompasses all forms of illicit sexual activity, including adultery, fornication, and homosexuality, as outlined in Leviticus 18 and reiterated in the New Testament. Joseph's flight from Potiphar's wife in Genesis 39:12 serves as a biblical example of fleeing from temptation. The call to flee is a proactive measure, emphasizing the believer's responsibility to avoid situations that could lead to sin.

Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body,
This phrase highlights the unique nature of sexual sin. While all sin is ultimately against God (Psalm 51:4), sexual sin is distinguished by its internal impact. In the context of Corinth, a city known for its sexual promiscuity, this statement underscores the personal and intimate violation that occurs with sexual sin. The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and thus, sins committed with the body have a profound spiritual significance. This distinction is not to minimize other sins but to emphasize the deep personal consequences of sexual immorality.

but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.
This phrase suggests a self-destructive element inherent in sexual sin. It affects the individual's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In the biblical context, the body is not merely a vessel but an integral part of one's identity and relationship with God. The concept of the body as a temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) implies that sexual sin defiles what is meant to be holy and set apart for God. This internal defilement contrasts with other sins that may not have the same direct impact on one's physical being. The call to purity is a call to honor God with one's body, reflecting the sanctity and purpose for which it was created.

Do you not know
This phrase serves as a rhetorical question, emphasizing the importance of the knowledge that Paul is about to impart. It suggests that the Corinthians should already be aware of the truth he is about to state, indicating that this teaching is foundational to Christian doctrine. The use of rhetorical questions is a common teaching method in Scripture, designed to provoke thought and self-examination.

that your body is a temple
In the context of the Corinthian church, which was situated in a city known for its immorality and pagan worship, the concept of the body as a temple would have been striking. Temples in the ancient world were sacred spaces dedicated to deities, and the idea that one's body could serve as such a space elevates the physical body to a place of spiritual significance. This aligns with the Old Testament understanding of the temple as the dwelling place of God (1 Kings 8:27-30).

of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit's indwelling presence is a key aspect of New Testament theology, marking the believer as set apart for God. This indwelling is a fulfillment of the promise found in Ezekiel 36:27, where God promises to put His Spirit within His people. The Holy Spirit empowers, guides, and sanctifies believers, making them holy and enabling them to live according to God's will.

who is in you
This phrase underscores the intimate and personal nature of the Holy Spirit's presence. Unlike the Old Testament, where God's presence was often external and associated with specific locations or objects, the New Testament reveals a more personal relationship where God dwells within the believer. This indwelling is a constant source of strength and guidance.

whom you have received from God?
The Holy Spirit is a gift from God, given to believers at the moment of salvation. This aligns with the promise of Jesus in John 14:16-17, where He speaks of sending the Helper, the Spirit of truth. The reception of the Holy Spirit is not based on human merit but is a gracious act of God, emphasizing the believer's dependence on divine provision.

You are not your own;
This statement challenges the prevailing cultural norms of autonomy and self-ownership. In the Greco-Roman world, personal freedom and self-determination were highly valued. However, Paul reminds the Corinthians that, as believers, they belong to God. This concept is rooted in the idea of redemption, where believers are bought with a price, as further explained in the following verse (1 Corinthians 6:20). This ownership by God calls for a life of obedience and submission to His will.

you were bought at a price.
This phrase emphasizes the concept of redemption, a central theme in Christian theology. The idea of being "bought" reflects the practice of purchasing slaves or goods in the ancient world, which would have been familiar to the Corinthian audience. In a spiritual sense, it signifies that believers have been redeemed from sin and death through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. This echoes the Old Testament concept of redemption, where God redeems Israel from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 6:6). The "price" refers to the blood of Christ, as mentioned in 1 Peter 1:18-19, which underscores the immense value and cost of this redemption. This transaction highlights the believer's new identity and belonging to God, as seen in passages like Galatians 3:13 and Revelation 5:9.

Therefore glorify God with your body.
The word "therefore" indicates a response or action that should follow the understanding of being bought at a price. The call to "glorify God" is a directive to honor and reflect God's character in one's life. In the context of Corinth, a city known for its immorality and idolatry, this command would have been particularly poignant. The body, often seen as a vessel for sin in Greco-Roman culture, is here redefined as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This aligns with the biblical teaching that the physical body is not separate from spiritual life but is integral to worship and service to God (Romans 12:1). The call to glorify God with one's body also connects to the broader biblical narrative of holiness and sanctification, as seen in Leviticus 11:44 and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4, where believers are urged to live in a manner that reflects their redeemed status.