1 Corinthians 6:19

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;

Study Bible

Do you not know
This phrase is a rhetorical question, often used by Paul to emphasize a point that should be obvious to the Corinthians. The Greek word "οἴδατε" (oidate) implies a knowledge that is both intellectual and experiential. Paul is reminding the Corinthians of a truth they should already be aware of, urging them to reflect on their spiritual understanding and the implications of their faith.

that your body
The Greek word for "body" is "σῶμα" (sōma), which refers to the physical body. In the context of Corinthian culture, which was heavily influenced by Greek philosophy that often devalued the physical in favor of the spiritual, Paul is emphasizing the sanctity and importance of the physical body. This challenges any notion that what one does with the body is irrelevant to spiritual life.

is a temple
The term "temple" comes from the Greek "ναός" (naos), which refers to the inner sanctuary of a temple, the most sacred part where the deity would dwell. In Jewish tradition, the temple in Jerusalem was the dwelling place of God's presence. By calling the body a temple, Paul elevates the physical body to a place of divine residence, underscoring its sacredness and the need for purity.

of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit, or "Πνεύματος Ἁγίου" (Pneumatos Hagiou) in Greek, is the third person of the Trinity, who indwells believers. This indwelling signifies a profound relationship between the believer and God, transforming the believer's body into a sacred space. The presence of the Holy Spirit is a testament to the believer's sanctification and calling to live a life that honors God.

who is in you
This phrase emphasizes the intimate and personal nature of the Holy Spirit's presence. The Greek "ἐν ὑμῖν" (en hymin) indicates an indwelling that is both communal and individual. It is a reminder that the Holy Spirit is not distant but resides within each believer, providing guidance, comfort, and empowerment for holy living.

whom you have received from God
The verb "received" (Greek "ἐλάβετε," elabete) indicates a gift that has been given. The Holy Spirit is a gift from God, bestowed upon believers at the moment of salvation. This underscores the grace of God in providing His Spirit to dwell within us, enabling us to live according to His will and purpose.

You are not your own
This statement is a powerful declaration of ownership and identity. The Greek "οὐκ ἐστὲ ἑαυτῶν" (ouk este heautōn) signifies that believers belong to God, having been bought with a price, as Paul elaborates in the following verse. This challenges the Corinthian believers, and us today, to live lives that reflect our status as God's possession, dedicated to His service and glory.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and often troubled early Christian community in the city of Corinth, known for its moral and spiritual challenges.

3. The Holy Spirit
The third person of the Trinity, who indwells believers, empowering and sanctifying them.

4. God
The giver of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the divine origin and authority of the Spirit's presence in believers.

5. The Temple
A sacred place in Jewish tradition, representing God's dwelling place, now metaphorically applied to the believer's body.

Teaching Points

The Indwelling Presence
Recognize the profound truth that the Holy Spirit resides within each believer, making our bodies sacred.

Stewardship of the Body
Understand that our bodies are not our own; they are entrusted to us by God, calling for responsible stewardship.

Holiness and Purity
Embrace a lifestyle that reflects the holiness of the temple, avoiding actions and habits that defile the body.

Identity in Christ
Our identity is rooted in being God's temple, which should influence our self-perception and actions.

Empowerment by the Spirit
Rely on the Holy Spirit's power to live a life that honors God, recognizing His role in our sanctification.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit influence your daily decisions and lifestyle?

2. In what ways can you practice better stewardship of your body, recognizing it as not your own but God's?

3. How does the concept of being a temple of the Holy Spirit connect with the call to holiness found in other scriptures like Romans 12:1?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that your life reflects the sacredness of being God's temple?

5. How can the empowerment of the Holy Spirit help you overcome challenges and temptations that threaten to defile your body as God's temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul earlier emphasizes the collective body of believers as God's temple, highlighting the sacredness of the community.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, underscoring the call to holiness and dedication.

2 Corinthians 6:16
Paul reiterates the concept of believers as God's temple, stressing the need for separation from impurity.

Ephesians 2:21-22
The church is described as a holy temple in the Lord, built together for God's dwelling.

Galatians 5:16-25
The passage contrasts living by the Spirit with gratifying the desires of the flesh, relevant to understanding the temple metaphor.