1 Corinthians 10:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 10:20
20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 10 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, prayer, holiness. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 10:20
20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
Analysis
But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils—This verse provides Paul's theological bombshell. While idols themselves are nothing (v. 19), pagan sacrifices are not offered into a spiritual vacuum—they're offered to devils (daimoniois, δαιμονίοις, "demons"). Paul likely alludes to Deuteronomy 32:17 (LXX): "They sacrificed to demons, not to God."
Daimonia in Greek culture could mean divine beings or spirits; in biblical usage, they're fallen angels who oppose God and deceive humanity. Pagan worship, however sincere, serves demons who masquerade as gods. This doesn't validate polytheism—there's still only one true God—but it recognizes that demonic powers exploit human religious instincts, receiving worship intended for deity.
Paul's urgent concern: I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils (ou thelō hymas koinōnous tōn daimoniōn ginesthai, οὐ θέλω ὑμᾶς κοινωνοὺς τῶν δαιμονίων γίνεσθαι). The same word koinōnia used for communion with Christ (v. 16) appears here—to eat at idol tables is to enter fellowship with demons. This isn't mere social impropriety; it's spiritual adultery, aligning with God's enemies. Paul's pastoral heart breaks at the prospect of beloved Christians unwittingly partnering with hell.
Historical Context
Ancient temples weren't mere cultural centers—they were sites of spiritual transactions. Sacrifices, prayers, and rituals invoked spiritual powers. While participants believed they honored Zeus or Aphrodite, Paul reveals the reality: demons received the worship. Modern parallels include any religious system denying Christ's exclusive lordship—however culturally sophisticated, it ultimately serves demonic deception. Paul warns Christians to recognize and flee such spiritual danger.
Reflection
- What modern religious or spiritual practices might seem culturally neutral but actually involve fellowship with demons?
- How can you recognize when cultural engagement crosses into spiritual compromise that aligns you with God's enemies?
- Why is "fellowship with demons" such a serious concern if demons are defeated foes under Christ's authority?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 4:4
- Evil: 2 Chronicles 11:15, Revelation 9:20
- Sacrifice: Leviticus 17:7