In I Corinthians 6, the Apostle Paul challenges Believers to live out their new identity in Christ. He deals with legal disputes among Christians, immoral behavior, and a failure to understand the sacredness of the human body. He draws a line between the former life of sin (i.e., violations of God's Laws) and the new, sanctified life in Christ.

Why are believers dragging each other into secular courts? The Apostle points to the absurdity of Christians — who are destined to judge the world and even angels — being unable to judge small matters within their own community. They don't see how unresolved conflict between Believers damages the church's credibility.

The Apostle also declares that those who live unrighteously (i.e., people who won't live the way God's wants them to) will not inherit the kingdom of God. He also declares that the body is not made for immorality but for the Lord. It is a temple of God's Spirit. Therefore, Christians are commanded to flee from sexual sin in all its forms (i.e., sex before marriage, adultery, pornography, etc.) and to glorify God with their bodies.

Key Lessons

"Glorify God with your body—it is not your own."

  1. Settle disputes within the church — prioritize reconciliation guided by Scripture and love.
  2. Believers are called to judge with wisdom — grow in discernment through God's Word.
  3. The church's reputation matters — consider how your decisions reflect on Christ.
  4. Choose humility over winning — pursuing peace is more powerful than proving your point.
  5. You are not your past — “You were washed… sanctified… justified.”
  6. The body is for the Lord — treat it as something holy (i.e., "set apart").
  7. Sexual sin is uniquely destructive — flee from lust.
  8. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit — create an atmosphere of purity, peace, and purpose.
  9. Flee from sin, don't flirt with it — avoid the edge of the cliff.
  10. You are not your own — modern culture says “My body, my choice.” Scripture says “Your body, God's possession.”
  11. Glorify God in all things — whatever you do, do it with God's honor in mind.
  12. Holiness is not optional — it's the mark of those who truly belong to the King.

The Christian life isn't just about believing differently — it's about LIVING differently. So, if in fact you've been washed, sanctified, and justified, then live like it!

If you have questions or comments, email me here.

In His Name,

Roy