1 Corinthians 6:13

Meats for the belly, and the belly for meates: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord: and the Lord for the body. 1 Corinthians 6:13 (KJV)

Context: This verse is found in the context of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he addresses various issues and concerns within the church. In this specific passage, Paul is discussing the importance of honouring God with our bodies.

Understanding the cultural context: During the time this letter was written, Corinth was a cosmopolitan city known for its indulgent and immoral lifestyle. The Corinthians were heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and culture, which often encouraged a separation of the spiritual and physical realms. This mindset led to a disregard for the sanctity of the body and moral behaviour.

“Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats”: Paul begins by acknowledging a common belief among the Corinthians regarding the body and physical desires. The phrase “Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats” reflects the idea that the body is meant for satisfying physical appetites. This perspective likely contributed to the Corinthians’ permissive attitudes towards sexual immorality.

God’s judgment and destruction: Paul then emphasises that while it may be true that the body has natural appetites, this does not mean that these desires are without consequence. He states that “God shall destroy both it and them.” Here, “it” refers to the belly and “them” refers to food. This destruction is not to be understood as annihilation, but rather as a reminder that all earthly things are temporary and subject to God’s ultimate judgment.

The purpose of the body: Paul then directs the Corinthians’ attention to the purpose of the body. He declares, “Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.” He contrasts the Corinthians’ misuse of their bodies through sexual immorality with God’s intended purpose for the body. Our bodies are not meant to be engaged in immoral acts but rather to be devoted to the Lord.

The Lord for the body: In the latter part of the verse, Paul emphasises that the Lord is also for the body. This implies that the body is significant to God, and He has a purpose for it. In the larger context of the chapter, Paul goes on to explain that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and belong to Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19‑20). Therefore, we are called to honour God with our bodies by abstaining from sexual immorality and living in a way that is pleasing to Him.