What does "bought with a price" mean? Definition and Context “Bought with a price” is a phrase used in Scripture to describe the believer’s redemption through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It appears chiefly in 1 Corinthians 6:20 and 1 Corinthians 7:23. In both passages, the apostle Paul grounds Christian ethics, identity, and freedom in the costly act of Christ’s atoning work. Believers, fully purchased from sin’s bondage, belong to God and are no longer their own. Key Biblical Passages “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; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.” “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.” These verses highlight that every believer has been purchased through Christ’s atoning sacrifice and is thus under divine ownership. Old Testament Roots of Redemption 1. Redemption from Slavery in Egypt The idea of being “bought” has its roots in the Exodus account, where God redeems Israel from Egypt (Exodus 6:6). Though not the same Greek language used in the New Testament, the concept of redemption—freeing one from slavery—was deeply ingrained in God’s relationship with His people. 2. Kinsman Redeemer Concept Passages like Ruth 4:1–10 describe how a kinsman redeemer could “buy back” family land or free relatives from financial hardship. This ancient narrative helps believers understand the nature of being rescued from spiritual bondage, foreshadowing Christ’s role as ultimate Redeemer. New Testament Emphasis on the Cost 1. The Price Paid The Greek term often rendered “bought” in the New Testament is ἠγοράσθητε (ēgorásthēte), which is derived from ἀγοράζω (agorázō), meaning “to buy” or “to purchase in the marketplace.” This wording in 1 Corinthians underscores a transaction: the life of Christ was the currency. • 1 Peter 1:18–19 confirms: “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed... but with the precious blood of Christ...” 2. The Blood of Christ The “price” is the sacrificial blood of Jesus, freely given to redeem humanity from the penalty and power of sin. This truth appears throughout the New Testament (Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 5:9), affirming that salvation comes not through human effort or wealth, but through a divine, indispensable ransom. Ownership and New Identity 1. Not Our Own By declaring that believers “are not [their] own” (1 Corinthians 6:19 [BSB]), Scripture teaches a transformative shift in self-perception. Believers no longer navigate life as autonomous beings; instead, they live under gracious divine ownership. 2. Living to Honor God Because the transaction was so costly, Paul’s exhortation is to “glorify God” with one’s body and life (1 Corinthians 6:20 [BSB]). This sets forth the idea that every facet of a Christian’s actions, words, and thoughts is accountable to God. Practical Implications 1. Moral Conduct In the culture of Corinth, immorality was pervasive. Paul pointed to the doctrine of being “bought with a price” to confront such behaviors. Recognizing Christ’s costly purchase drives believers to pursue holiness and purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3–7). 2. Freedom from Worldly Slavery In 1 Corinthians 7:23—“You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men”—Paul emphasizes believers’ freedom from human and worldly rule. The Christian serves the Lord first, rendering obedience to earthly authorities only insofar as it aligns with God’s will. 3. Service and Witness Since believers now belong to God, they are empowered to serve Him (Romans 12:1–2). Christians reflect the redemptive reality in daily life, acting as witnesses to the transformative power of God (Matthew 5:16). Historical and Cultural Background 1. Greco-Roman Slave Market In the first century, slavery was common, and a release from slavery typically required a payment or ransom. By using “bought” language, Paul drew on a contemporary image familiar to his audience, making a profound spiritual truth relatable. 2. Legal Status Change In Roman law, a former slave who was ransomed by a patron experienced a new status and obligation. Similarly, believers owe their allegiance to God alone, having been spiritually transferred from the domain of sin to the kingdom of righteousness (Colossians 1:13). Theological Significance 1. Atonement and Substitution “Bought with a price” underscores substitutionary atonement: Jesus assumed guilt and paid the penalty in humanity’s place (Isaiah 53:4–6). This central tenet of the Christian faith shows the depth of divine love and justice. 2. Union with Christ Believers share in Christ’s resurrection life (Romans 6:4–5). Being “bought” means they are inseparable from His redeeming work, with a future hope grounded in eternal life and the promised resurrection (1 Corinthians 15). 3. Call to Worship and Gratitude Worship becomes a natural response—believers who grasp the weight of the price paid are stirred to gratitude, praise, and dedicated service. This theme resonates throughout the Psalms and early Christian hymns that celebrate God’s salvation (e.g., Revelation 5:9–10). Apologetic and Devotional Insights 1. Historical Evidence of Christ’s Sacrifice Outside writings, including first-century accounts (e.g., Tacitus’ Annals 15.44), corroborate the historical reality of Jesus’ crucifixion. Archaeological findings and early Christian manuscripts underscore the consistency of New Testament records. 2. Transformative Power of Redemption Throughout history, numerous accounts testify to changed lives upon embracing Christ’s redemption. Modern studies in behavioral science show that when individuals internalize a strong “change in belonging,” it affects self-perception and moral choices—aligning with Paul’s teaching on the new identity in Christ. 3. Practical Devotion Believers who live in the awareness of being “bought with a price” often demonstrate heightened commitment to prayer, worship, and service. This parallels the earliest Christian communities (Acts 2:42–47), whose unity and sacrificial love bore witness to faith in a resurrected Savior. Conclusion “Bought with a price” conveys the profound truth that believers belong fully to God because of Jesus’ sacrificial death and victorious resurrection. Rooted in Old Testament redemption themes and illustrated by first-century slave-market imagery, this phrase challenges Christians to embrace a transformed life under God’s gracious rule. Recognizing that one’s salvation is neither cheap nor accidental but purchased at the highest cost prompts a lifestyle of worship, ethical conduct, and passionate witness. It is a reminder that, having been bought by Christ’s precious blood, the believer’s ultimate purpose is to glorify God and joyfully serve Him. |
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