Regarding idolatry

In the previous passage, Paul advised the Corinthian believers to open their hearts. Today’s passage continues from there, but a careful reading shows that 6:14-7:1 is a parenthetical section. Why did Paul depart from the main theme at this point and insert this parenthetical section? (1) Paul knew why the Corinthian believers were not opening their hearts. It was because, even after becoming Christians, they had not completely broken away from pagan practices and idolatry. (2) Therefore, motivated by love, Paul sought to address the real problem and point it out.

Unequal yoke

Paul commands, “Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers” (v 14 ASV). What does it mean to be “unequally yoked”? (1) It does not mean that we should completely sever our relationships with unbelievers. If we did so, Christians would have to leave this world, and evangelism would become impossible. Paul had already commanded that even if one’s spouse is an unbeliever, if the unbelieving spouse agrees to live together, the marriage should be maintained (1 Cor. 7:12-16). (2) Basically, Christianity and paganism cannot be compatible with each other. However, what Paul is commanding is, so to speak, a “basic guideline,” and each person must be led by the Holy Spirit in applying it to practical life. (3) Behind the expression “unequally yoked” were the teachings of Deuteronomy 22:10 and Leviticus 19:19. It was forbidden to yoke an ox and a donkey together. Paul applies this to the situation in the Corinthian church and teaches that it is impossible for believers and unbelievers to live in harmony. The “temple of the living God” refers to the church, the community of Christians (not a building). Next, Paul lists quotations from the Old Testament and explains why Christians should pursue a holy life (ref. Lev. 26:12; Isa. 52:11; 43:6, etc.). We Christians will live as God’s sons and daughters in the kingdom of heaven (Rev. 21:3). We should begin preparing for that now.