What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 6:20? You were bought “For you were bought…” (1 Corinthians 6:20). Paul reminds believers that we no longer belong to ourselves. Scripture repeatedly teaches this truth: • Acts 20:28 says the church was “purchased with His own blood.” • 1 Peter 1:18-19 adds that we were redeemed “not with perishable things like silver or gold… but with the precious blood of Christ.” • 1 Corinthians 7:23 repeats, “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.” Because the transaction is complete and irrevocable, our identity is now defined by God’s ownership, not personal autonomy. At a price “…at a price.” The cost was immeasurable—the sacrificial death of Jesus. • Mark 10:45 speaks of the Son of Man giving “His life as a ransom for many.” • Galatians 3:13 explains that Christ “redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us.” • Isaiah 53:5 foretold that “by His wounds we are healed.” Recognizing the staggering price cultivates gratitude and drives home the seriousness of sin; it cost the blood of the sinless Lamb. Therefore “Therefore…” links doctrine to duty. Because redemption is real, a practical response is required. • Romans 12:1 urges, “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” • Titus 2:14 says Christ “gave Himself for us to redeem us… to purify for Himself a people who are His own, eager to do good works.” Salvation is never merely an internal feeling; it calls for decisive, visible obedience. Glorify God “…glorify God…” Our highest purpose is to display God’s worth. • Matthew 5:16 instructs, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Ephesians 1:12 states that we exist “for the praise of His glory.” Living to glorify God means every choice—public or private—is filtered through the question, “Will this honor the One who saved me?” With your body “…with your body.” Paul roots godliness in the physical realm, confronting the Corinthian culture of sexual immorality. • 1 Corinthians 6:13 notes, “The body is not intended for sexual immorality but for the Lord.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 commands believers to avoid sexual sin and “control your own body in holiness.” • Romans 6:12-13 warns not to “let sin reign in your mortal body,” but to present your bodies to God as instruments of righteousness. Practical applications: – Sexual purity: limit entertainment, relationships, and habits that compromise holiness. – Stewardship of health: diet, rest, and exercise become acts of worship. – Service: use hands, voice, and energy to serve in church and community. The redeemed body is a living stage on which God’s glory is displayed. summary 1 Corinthians 6:20 teaches that believers belong to God because Christ paid the ultimate ransom. This costly purchase demands a life that openly honors Him, especially through the way we use our physical bodies. Gratitude for redemption fuels daily choices that point all attention back to the Savior who bought us. |
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