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HomeBible Commentary1 CorinthiansChapter 61 Corinthians 6:18

1 Corinthians 6:18 meaning

The apostle Paul emphasizes the gravity of sexual immorality in his letter to the Corinthians, instructing believers to flee from such actions. This charge highlights the unique nature of sexual sin compared to other sins, as it deeply affects not only the individual but also their relationship with God. The Corinthians struggled with the belief that their physical bodies were unimportant, which led them to engage in immoral acts without considering the ramifications on their spiritual union with Christ. This perspective is flawed; our bodies are sacred and intended for God's glory.

In 1 Corinthians 6:18, Paul warns that every other sin is external, but sexual immorality is committed against one’s own body, which is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Engaging in sexual immorality places the body, which belongs to God, into a union with an illegitimate partner. Therefore, the act of fleeing this sin is not merely an admonition against a behavior but a crucial call to honor the divine ownership and sanctity of our bodies, which have been bought with a price.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • 1 Corinthians 5:1-2 meaning. 1 Corinthians 5:1-2 begins Paul’s rebuke of the Corinthian church, that one from among their congregation has had an affair with his own father’s wife. No one has confronted this sin; instead it has been ignored and tolerated. In their pride, the Corinthians have decided this sin is acceptable, and therefore not a sin. Paul confronts them that they ought to be grieved at the sin and remove the sinner from the assembly.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 meaning. 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 contrasts the wisdom of God with the wisdom of this world. The wisdom of the world changes. Its values, priorities, and standards are fickle. God’s wisdom is unchanging truth. God’s wisdom is mysterious, that He should send His Son to die for the world. Had the wise, powerful human authorities understood God’s wisdom, they would not have crucified Jesus. But they could not comprehend God’s wise plan, and acted on their own misguided agenda. In making this contrast, Paul is directing his readers to follow God, not men.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:25-40 meaning. 1 Corinthians 7:25-40 continues to answer the Corinthians’ questions about marriage. Paul speaks from his own insight. Since the Corinthians are presently enduring an undisclosed crisis, it is practically safer for everyone to stay put in their relationship status. If married, then remain married and devoted. But if single, perhaps it is better to remain single during this present trying time. For unmarried women, they may find it easier to serve the Lord and forget the cares of the world if they stay unmarried. But there is nothing wrong with getting married. Paul is not ordering anyone around, only giving advice. If fathers want to give their daughters away in marriage to provide for their future, then do so. These are culturally contextual pieces of advice. The general principle is that believers are free to make choices; Paul is exhorting them to gain spiritual wisdom to guide them in making the best choice.