1 Corinthians 10: Remembering Old Testament Examples

Read 1 Corinthians Chapter 10

Introduction: 1 Corinthians 10 encourages believers to learn from the past, to live with self discipline, and to seek the good of others above their own self interest. The chapter serves as a stern reminder to avoid idolatry, to be mindful of how our actions affect others, and to find strength in God to resist temptation. By reflecting on the experiences of the Israelites, we are called to remain vigilant in our faith and to participate in the blessings of Christ with responsibility and humility.

I. Warning From Israel’s History (1 Corinthians 10:1-13)

In the first five verses of this chapter, Paul under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit issues a warning to the Corinthian church. At the time Moses led Israel through the wilderness, which was actually being led by God, many Israelites fell into sin and lost their lives. The Bible goes on to say in 1 Corinthians 10:6-13, we must learn from their mistakes, their mistakes are examples to us for what not to do.  We can read in Numbers 14:29, about God’s judgement on rebellious Israelites, who disobey the commands of God. Also in Exodus 32:6, the Israelites engage in idolatry, of which is breaking a direct commandment of God.  Jesus tells us how we avoid these pitfalls in Matthew 26:41, be watchful and pray to avoid temptation. These verses show the consequences of disobedience and the importance of vigilance against sin.

II. Flee from Idolatry & Lords Supper (1 Corinthians 10:14-22)

We read in verses 14-17 about partaking in the Lord’s Supper and how it connects us as one body to Christ. We can read in Matthew 26:26-28, where the Lords Supper was instituted by Jesus Christ. Paul tells the church here to flee idolatry, as it provokes God’s jealousy, and the Apostle Paul makes the point to tell them, “do we think we are stronger than God”. This brings to mind, Exodus 20:3-5, where the Bible talks about God’s command against idolatry.  Also in James 4:4, the Bible says adultery with the world is enmity with God, idolatry would definitely adultery with the world.  The Lord’s Supper is a sacred act that should not be mixed with idolatrous practices, as God requires exclusive devotion.

III. Consideration for Others (1 Corinthians 10:23-33)

These verses teach that we should seek the good of others, not just our own personal gain. We should exercise the freedoms we have in our salvation with care, always being mindful of others’ weaknesses. The Bible also teaches here, we are to do all things for God’s glory and others’ well-being. In some verses in Romans 14:13-23, the Bible makes it clear, to not cause another to stumble. We should  always be mindful of what we say, what we do and how we act, making sure it doesn’t put a stumbling block in someone else life. We find good sound wisdom in Galatians 5:13, by love serve one another, this would cure most ills in our world today. Also 1 Peter 2:12 even tells us to live honorably among unbelievers as well. Christian freedom must be balanced with love and consideration for the spiritual welfare of others, so that God may be glorified.

Conclusion: 1 Corinthians 10 is a reminder to believers to live with awareness of both examples from Jewish history and our own responsibilities. Like the Israelites, we must heed the warnings of the past and flee from idolatry, making sure our actions are in line with our devotion to Christ. In our everyday relations with others, we must prioritize their spiritual health and walk in a way that brings glory to God. By living by these principles, we can successfully traverse the temptations and challenges of life, grounded in the wisdom and strength that comes from our faith.