What does 1 Corinthians 10:6 mean?

Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. 1 Corinthians 10:6

Explanation

1 Corinthians 10:6 refers to the lessons that the Apostle Paul wants the Corinthians to learn from the experiences of the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt. He emphasizes that the events that occurred with the Israelites serve as examples, or “types,” for the Christians in Corinth. The “evil things” they are not to lust after are the same vices that led the Israelites to sin against God during their wilderness wanderings. The core message is one of admonition against setting one’s desires on sinful behaviors, as this leads to negative outcomes, just as it did for the Israelites.

Historical Context

The First Epistle to the Corinthians was likely written by Paul around A.D. 55. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, trade, and cosmopolitan population, as well as for its notorious immorality. Paul’s reference to the Israelite history would have been familiar to Jewish Christians and many Gentile Christians in Corinth since the Old Testament scriptures were part of their theological background.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse in 1 Corinthians is a caution against idolatry and aligns with the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments. The Israelites’ history is used by Paul as a pedagogical tool to teach about God’s justice and the consequences of sin. In a broader Christian theological context, the verse illustrates the concept of divine providence and the belief in learning from scriptural history. Different denominations may emphasize the moral, allegorical, or typological interpretation of this passage.

Practical Applications

Practically, 1 Corinthians 10:6 warns believers to avoid coveting or desiring things that lead to sin. It is applicable to contemporary issues such as materialism, sexual immorality, and other forms of excess. The lesson here encourages self-examination and spiritual discipline, urging individuals to learn from the past and make choices that are in line with their faith and values.

Cross-References

• Numbers 11:4: “And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?”
• Psalm 106:14: “But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert.”
• Hebrews 3:17: “But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?”

Language Study

In the original Greek, “examples” is translated from τύποι (typoi), which means “types” or “figures,” indicating that the events serve as patterns or models. The phrase “should not lust after evil things” comes from the Greek expression ἐπιθυμῆσαι κακῶν, which carries the sense of intense desire or coveting of that which is not good.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of learning from past misdeeds is not unique to Christianity and can be found in other cultural and religious contexts. For example, in ancient Greek philosophy, learning from the past is a common theme. Similarly, in Judaism, there is a focus on reflecting on history — especially the history of the Israelites — to garner wisdom and avoid repeating mistakes.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology supports the idea that individuals and groups can learn from past experiences to improve future outcomes. This aligns with the message in 1 Corinthians 10:6, suggesting that reflecting on historical behaviors can lead to better decision-making and moral development.

Commentaries

Many biblical commentators view 1 Corinthians 10:6 as part of Paul’s broader discussion on idolatry and spiritual failure. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the desires for temporal goods can lead to sin when they become excessive. John Gill comments on the phrase “as they also lusted,” pointing out that the reference clearly identifies the historical missteps of the Israelites, which Christians are to avoid repeating. Adam Clarke highlights the necessity of taking heed lest spiritual privileges lead to presumption rather than grateful obedience.