What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 6:20?

For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

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1 Corinthians 6:20 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding 1 Corinthians 6:20

Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 6:20 - "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s."

Overview of the Verse

This verse emphasizes the dual obligation of believers to honor God in both body and spirit, highlighting the significance of Christ's sacrifice. The phrase "bought with a price" serves as a reminder of the redemptive work of Jesus and the resulting transformation of believers' lives.

Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry expounds that "the price" refers to the precious blood of Christ, which redeems believers from sin. He emphasizes that this redemption is not only a matter of spiritual liberation but also one that carries the responsibility of living a life that honors God.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes points out that the 'price' signifies the costliness of Christ's sacrifice, leading to the conclusion that, in light of such grace, believers must dedicate their entire being—body and spirit—to God's service. He stresses the importance of living a life that reflects gratitude for this redemptive act.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke underscores that this verse calls for a life of holiness, arguing that since believers belong to God, both in spirit and body, their conduct should epitomize the sanctity of that ownership. He notes that glorifying God involves both inner devotion and outward behavior.

Key Themes

  • Redemption: The concept of being ‘bought’ signifies the transition from sin to salvation.
  • Divine Ownership: Believers are reminded that they belong to God, emphasizing a call to honor Him in every aspect of their lives.
  • Holiness: There is encouragement to pursue a lifestyle that reflects God's values and purity.
  • Responsibility: Acknowledging the price paid for salvation imposes a duty on believers to glorify God with their lives.

Application in Daily Life

1 Corinthians 6:20 prompts believers to reflect on how they live out their faith. It challenges individuals to assess their behavior, decisions, and interactions with others as extensions of their allegiance to God.

Practically, this could involve:

  • Maintaining integrity in all dealings.
  • Engaging in healthy relationships that reflect God's love.
  • Using one's body and spirit to serve others, showcasing God’s glory through acts of kindness and compassion.
  • Prioritizing spiritual growth through studying the scripture and being part of Bible study groups.

Cross References

  • Romans 12:1: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
  • 1 Peter 1:18-19: "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot."
  • Galatians 2:20: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 6:20 serves as a profound reminder of the redemptive work of Jesus and the obligation for believers to live in a way that glorifies God. By understanding the deep implications of this verse through biblical commentary, individuals can explore their faith more deeply and seek to apply these principles in their lives.

By engaging in online Bible study, utilizing Bible study tools, and participating in Bible study groups, one can further enrich their understanding of such verses, thereby fostering a more robust faith experience.