Introduction 1st Corinthians 6:19-20 states, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies” (NIV). This verse, written by Paul to the people in Corinth tells the people that they need to honor God with everything because the Holy Spirit lives in them. Basically, Paul is trying to teach the Corinthians how to live in their secular world while still upholding God’s standards for their lives. Historical Cultural Setting 1 Corinthians was written by Paul to the people who lived in Corinth. The city of Corinth was connected to Greece via an isthmus, so it had lots of sea traffic from the Mediterranean (ESV 2187). Because of this, Corinth was a mix of many different cultures and religions, with a heavy emphasis on Roman law and customs. False gods were integrated into many aspects of life in Corinth, including civic festivals and trade fairs. The early Christians only knew of the pagan ideas of worship and lifestyle, which …show more content…
This passage from 1st Corinthians showed them God’s design for marriage and sex. This verse explained to the people of Corinth why our bodies are considered sacred and special. The recipients of Paul’s letter were unable to understand the fact that our bodies do relate to sin (Hays 105). Many of the people during A.D. 56 really understood the concept of bond-servanthood because slavery was a normal occurrence. To them, 1st Corinthians 6:20, holds a richer meaning because they understand that freedom only comes because of grueling work (Grosheide 151). When Paul wrote this in his letter, the people of Corinth would definitely comprehend the truths Paul was hinting at more than people would today. Contemporary