1 Corinthians 8:6

But to vs there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him, and one Lord Iesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 1 Corinthians 8:6 (KJV)

The book of 1 Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul to address various issues and challenges faced by the church in Corinth, including the question of food offered to idols and the Christian’s response to it. In chapter 8 Paul affirms the core Christian confession of monotheism: “But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.”

Understanding the verse

• Monotheism* – Paul begins by declaring the belief in one God, setting the Christian perspective apart from the polytheistic culture of Corinth.
• God the Father* – He emphasizes that the Father is the source of all things, affirming God’s sovereignty as Creator and sustainer of the universe.
• One Lord Jesus Christ* – Paul then identifies the Lord Jesus Christ as the one through which all things exist, highlighting His unique role in the Godhead.
• Unity with God* – The verse concludes by stating that believers are “in” the Father and “by” the Son, underscoring the intimate relationship believers enjoy with God through Christ.

Application

• Monotheism and Christian faith* – As Christians we believe in the uniqueness and oneness of God. This belief distinguishes us from worldviews that promote multiple deities and grounds our faith in the truth that there is only one true God revealed as Father and Son.
• God as the source of all things* – Recognizing the Father as the origin of everything cultivates gratitude, humility, and dependence on Him, for everything we have—including our very existence—comes from God.
• Lordship of Jesus Christ* – Acknowledging Jesus as Lord means surrendering our lives to Him, following His teachings, and living in obedience to His will, for He is not merely a moral teacher but the Savior and Lord of our lives.
• Our relationship with God* – Through Jesus Christ we are united with the Father, experiencing His love, grace, and guidance. This relationship should shape our identity, values, and actions.

Overall, 1 Corinthians 8:6 affirms the Christian belief in one God and highlights the central role of the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ in our faith, reminding us of our connection to God and the significance of our relationship with Him through His Son.