1 Corinthians 10:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 10:6
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 10 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, creation, fellowship. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 10:6
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
Analysis
Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted—Paul now explicitly states his interpretive method: Old Testament narratives function as typoi (τύποι, "types/examples/patterns") for Christian instruction. These weren't mere historical events but divinely orchestrated object lessons for us, written to the intent (eis to, εἰς τὸ) we might avoid Israel's failures.
The warning against lust after evil things (epithymētai kakōn, ἐπιθυμηταὶ κακῶν) recalls Israel's craving for Egypt's food (Numbers 11:4-6, 34). Epithymia (ἐπιθυμία, "desire/lust/craving") describes disordered desire—wanting what God forbids or what He hasn't provided. Israel's lust brought judgment at Kibroth-hattaavah ("graves of craving," Numbers 11:34).
For Corinth, this addresses their desire for idol-temple meals. Just as Israel craved Egyptian food over God's manna, some Corinthians craved social prestige and culinary pleasure over spiritual purity. Paul warns: disordered desires, even for permissible things (food), can lead to divine judgment when they override obedience.
Historical Context
Israel's complaints about manna ("this light bread") and craving for meat reflected deeper discontent with God's provision. God gave them quail but sent leanness to their souls (Psalm 106:15). The Corinthians similarly prioritized cultural participation and social advancement over gospel distinctiveness. Paul redirects their desires toward Christ-centered contentment.
Reflection
- What "evil things" do you find yourself craving that compromise your devotion to Christ?
- How can you identify disordered desires before they lead to serious sin?
- In what ways does our consumer culture encourage the same craving mentality Israel displayed in the wilderness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 10:11, Numbers 11:4, Hebrews 4:11, 1 Peter 3:21, 2 Peter 2:6, Jude 1:7