The Lodestar

In the sixth chapter of 1 Corinthians, Paul discusses the theology of the human body. Proper use of the human body is vital to spiritual life, just as correct belief is essential to the life of believers in Christ. Paul boldly states that we do not own our bodies and cannot use them as we wish: “The body is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body” (1 Corinthians 6:13).

This chapter links two discussions on misusing the human body. In chapter five, Paul describes a case of incest involving a man and his stepmother. Chapter seven then shifts focus to marriage and celibacy, highlighting the mutual surrender of bodies within marriage: “The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does” (1 Corinthians 7:4). Paul insists that bodies, once given to each other in marriage, must remain exclusive to that relationship.

The word “lawful” in this verse is translated differently in English and other languages. It mainly expresses the idea of absolute freedom, so the NLT rightly translates it as “I am allowed to do anything.” However, in the next line, Paul challenges this common notion in Corinth, stating, “Not all things are helpful.” Not everything society permits is good for our spiritual life; some could even be harmful.

Second, we must not allow the human body to control our spiritual life. Therefore, he repeats and contradicts the same slogan: We should not let anything, even if society permits it, control our lives, actions, and thoughts. “But I will not be controlled by anything.” The truth that the Lord, not us, owns our bodies must be upheld.

This fundamental biblical truth protects those living in an increasingly permissive society. We must live to please the Lord, the creator and owner of our bodies, rather than conforming to the dictates of the culture around us. The Holy Spirit is always present to guide us through this perilous landscape. “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16).

Reflect on the sacred purpose of your body as God’s creation. Commit today to honour and steward your body in ways that please the Lord, resisting the pressures of culture and walking faithfully by the Spirit. Let God’s ownership of your body guide your choices and transform your life.

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