Paul concluded chapter 5, talking about the “ministry of reconciliation.” Humans have a part in such ministry (cf. 4:7) in that we “beg” others to be reconciled to God (5:20). Here, Paul comments that he “urges” Christians not to receive the grace of God in vain (6:1). They might hear it and not obey it. Or, they might obey it initially but not remain faithful. However, “today is the day of salvation” (6:2).
Paul continues, pointing out that he, Silas, and Timothy, had commended themselves as servants of God by enduring a host of contradictions, some things were good, some things were bad (6:4-10). The point though, was that their mouths were opened to the Corinthians and so were their hearts (6:11). The only thing that held back the Corinthians were themselves and Paul encourages them to open their hearts (6:13).
The last paragraph of chapter 6 is Paul’s warning to the Corinthians not to entangle themselves with the unbelievers in the world. Indeed, some of that was already having an influence on the Christians in Corinth. Here, Paul challenges them not to be “unequally yoked” with unbelievers (6:14). Why not? Because there is no partnership between righteousness and lawlessness. There is no fellowship between light and darkness.
There is no harmony (“speaking one voice”) between Christ and Belial (a term used in the Qumran community for Satan). There is nothing in common between the believer and the unbeliever. There is no agreement between the temple of God and idols (compare Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 8).
Here’s the most important point in this section: “We are the temple of the living God” (6:16). Israel was not called a “temple” in the OT because they worshipped in a physical temple. We do not because we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19).
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This was in fulfillment of God’s promise from a compilation of OT quotations. Note in verse 16 that Paul says, “God said…” and then quotes the OT. Paul had a high view of inspiration! If it was in the OT, it was from God!
This plethora of OT citations picture God as dwelling among His people and walking among them, as He would in the temple of the OT. Because the people are God’s temple, indeed His holy temple, His people should come out from among impure, unholy influences so that they can be received and welcomed by God (6:16-17).
Then, God promises, He will be their father and they will be His sons and daughters (note the level of equality in this sentiment). That’s the essence of being a “new creature.”
Paul Holland
