NT Fire Starters – Day 231: 1 Corinthians 6:1-20

READ: 1 Corinthians 6:1-20

THINK: Some people who claim to be Christians seem to think–or at least act–like it doesn’t matter what they do with their bodies. Since salvation is essentially a spiritual matter, they feel that they can use, treat and flaunt their bodies as they desire–without spiritual consequence. But for those who have accepted Jesus’ sacrifice to redeem–to buy back–their lives from sin, His ownership extends to their entire being. They are to reflect and honor Jesus with all they are and all they do–body, mind, soul and spirit.

RESPOND: Why should Christians try to settle minor disputes among themselves rather than taking one another to court? (See 6:1 note.) Does this passage imply that Christians shouldn’t use the courts? Why or why not? What should happen when church members are involved in immoral or unlawful activity or have neglected their social responsibilities? What are some consequences of unsettled disputes among Christians? What types of persistent behaviors keep people out of God’s kingdom? (See 6:9-10 note.) How do you know that there’s hope for people who are struggling with any of these behaviors? (See 6:11 note.) Why does Paul say, “Everything is permissible for me”? (See 6:12 note.) Do Christians have the right to do whatever they please? Why or why not? Although salvation is a spiritual issue, why does it matter what we do with our bodies? (See 6:13 note.) What does it mean that Christians’ “bodies are members of Christ”? (See 6:15 note.) How does sexually immoral behavior rob a person of God’s purpose for them? Why are sexual sins particularly offensive to God and destructive to individuals? (See 6:18 note.) How can you keep from getting involved in sexual sins? What does the fact that “your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit” imply about how you should treat your body? (See 6:19 note.) How can you honor God with your body?

PRAY: Thank the Holy Spirit for taking up residence in your life. Ask Him to help you honor Jesus with your body.

ACT: Try to settle any minor disputes you have with other Christians. Talk directly with those involved. If that doesn’t work, ask church leaders or pastors for advice and help in resolving the issue. If any behavior, habit or lifestyle is keeping you from honoring God with your body, ask Him to forgive you. Then trust Him to help you make the necessary changes.