1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body.
Introduction
In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul addresses the Corinthians in a pivotal discussion about the sanctity of the human body. This passage emphasizes that the believers' bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, challenging them to honor God not just in spirit but in bodily actions as well.
Commentary
Paul's rhetoric poses a critical question to the Corinthians, reminding them of a fundamental Christian belief that the Holy Spirit resides within them. The phrase "you are not your own" highlights the transformation and commitments entailed in following Christ. Being "bought with a price" refers to the redemptive sacrifice of Christ on the cross, which consecrates believers as God’s property, dedicated to divine purposes.
Understanding the Context
Corinth was a city known for its wealth, diversity, and moral laxity. Paul's letters to the Corinthians often addressed issues arising from a cultural milieu that contradicted or challenged Christian teachings. In this passage, Paul confronts the Corinthian practice of justifying immoral behavior, particularly sexual immorality, by asserting the Christian doctrine of bodily sanctity and spiritual indwelling.
Application for Today
This passage calls modern believers to reflect on personal lifestyles and choices, emphasizing that their actions should honor God, considering their bodies as vessels of the Holy Spirit. This has direct implications for personal health, sexual purity, and ethical integrity. It challenges believers to live not as owners of their lives but as stewards of a life entrusted to them by God.
Reflection
Consider your daily activities and choices:
How do they reflect the belief that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?
In what ways can you better glorify God through your physical and spiritual life?
This reflection is an invitation to introspection and commitment. It encourages a lifestyle that actively glorifies God in all aspects and recognizes the profound spiritual significance of everyday actions.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
No comments:
Post a Comment