1 Corinthians 6:12-20
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What stood out to you in Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, and why?
The Corinthians had confused Christian freedom with the freedom to do whatever they wanted. How does Paul redefine Christian freedom in verses 12–13?
In response to their claim of absolute freedom, Paul insists, “I will not be dominated by anything” (v. 12). How can we recognize when a desire is beginning to master us? What help do Christians have to bring powerful desires under the rule of Jesus? (See Gal. 5:16–17; 6:1-2; Rom. 8:13; Titus 2:11–12.)
When Paul describes our bodies as “members of Christ” (v. 15), he connects our union with Christ to the way we use our bodies. How should that union shape the way we live—even in the private areas of life that no one else sees?
By pointing back to the “one flesh” language of Genesis (v. 16), Paul shows that sex is more than merely physical or casual. How does this challenge the way our culture—and sometimes our own hearts—think about sex, sexual relationships, and desire?
Paul tells believers to “flee” sexual immorality (v. 18). What does that word teach us about the seriousness of sexual sin? What might fleeing temptation look like practically before temptation becomes sin? (Consider Gen. 39:9–12; Matt. 5:29–30; Rom. 13:13–14.)
Paul says, “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price” (vv. 19–20). How is belonging to Jesus both confronting and comforting? And what hope does the gospel give someone who has already fallen into sexual sin (See 1 Cor. 6:11 and 19-20; Rom. 8:1; 1 John 1:9)?
Of the truths in this passage—Christ’s rule over our desires, God’s purpose for our bodies, our union with Christ, or the fact that we belong to him—which do you most need to remember and live in light of this week?
