1 Corinthians 10:18

Consider the people of Israel: Are not those who eat the sacrifices fellow partakers in the altar?

Study Bible

Consider the people of Israel
This phrase invites the reader to reflect on the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites. The Greek word for "consider" (βλέπετε) implies a deep, attentive observation. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, serve as a profound example of faith, obedience, and at times, disobedience. Their experiences are recorded in the Old Testament, providing lessons on the consequences of idolatry and the blessings of covenant faithfulness. Historically, the Israelites' relationship with God was marked by a series of covenants, starting with Abraham and culminating in the Mosaic Covenant, which included the sacrificial system.

Are not those who eat the sacrifices
This phrase refers to the practice of consuming portions of the sacrifices offered at the altar. In the Levitical system, certain sacrifices allowed for the priests and sometimes the offerers to partake in the meal, symbolizing communion with God. The Greek word for "eat" (ἐσθίω) is used here to denote participation and fellowship. Eating the sacrifices was not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, signifying unity with the divine purpose and community. This practice underscores the importance of shared worship and the communal aspect of faith.

Fellow partakers in the altar
The term "fellow partakers" (κοινωνοὶ) is significant, as it denotes partnership and shared participation. The altar, central to Israelite worship, was where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. Being a partaker in the altar meant being in fellowship with God and His covenant community. The altar was not just a physical structure but a symbol of God's presence and the place where heaven and earth met. This phrase highlights the spiritual reality that those who participate in the sacrificial system are united in purpose and worship, sharing in the blessings and responsibilities of the covenant relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostle Paul
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with teachings and corrections.

2. The People of Israel
Refers to the Israelites, God's chosen people in the Old Testament, who participated in sacrificial rituals.

3. The Altar
A sacred place where sacrifices were offered to God, symbolizing communion and covenant with Him.

4. The Corinthian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, a diverse group of believers in a city known for its cultural and religious plurality.

5. Sacrifices
Ritual offerings made to God, which in the context of Israel, were part of the covenantal worship system.

Teaching Points

Understanding Communion with God
The Israelites' participation in sacrifices was not merely ritualistic but a profound act of communion with God. As believers, we are called to recognize the depth of our spiritual communion with Christ through our worship and daily lives.

The Significance of Fellowship
Just as the Israelites shared in the altar, Christians are called to share in fellowship with one another, recognizing that our unity is rooted in Christ's sacrifice.

Avoiding Idolatry
Paul warns against idolatry by drawing a parallel between the Israelites' sacrifices and the potential for believers to partake in idolatrous practices. We must be vigilant in ensuring our worship and devotion are directed solely to God.

Living Sacrifices
In light of the sacrificial system, believers are encouraged to offer themselves as living sacrifices, dedicating their lives to God's service and glory.

Discernment in Cultural Practices
The Corinthian context of eating food offered to idols challenges us to discern our participation in cultural practices, ensuring they align with our faith and witness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the sacrificial system of Israel enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice?

2. In what ways can we ensure our fellowship with other believers reflects the unity and communion described in 1 Corinthians 10:18?

3. What are some modern-day "idols" that might tempt us away from wholehearted devotion to God, and how can we guard against them?

4. How can we practically live as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. Reflect on a cultural practice you engage in. How can you discern whether it aligns with your faith, similar to the issue of eating food offered to idols in 1 Corinthians 8 and 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 7:15
Discusses the peace offerings and the communal aspect of eating the sacrifices, highlighting the shared fellowship with God.

Hebrews 13:10
Refers to the Christian altar, emphasizing the spiritual sacrifices believers partake in through Christ.

1 Corinthians 8:4-13
Addresses the issue of eating food offered to idols, which is part of the broader discussion in 1 Corinthians 10.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system of Israel.

Acts 2:42
Describes the early church's devotion to fellowship and breaking of bread, reflecting communal participation.