Daily Bible Plan - 1. Corinthians

12th August 2025

Devotion by Deacon Thomson Imonopi

Theme: Unleashed to Save the Never-Dying Soul

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

Living Right Before God and Men

1 Corinthians 6:1–20

Scripture Focus:

“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived.” — 1 Corinthians 6:9a

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Reflection

In this chapter, Paul the Apostle gives clear and practical guidance for Christian conduct. The passage naturally divides into two sections:

1. Verses 1–7 – Handling disputes among believers

2. Verses 8–20 – Living in holiness and devotion to the Lord

1. Disputes Among Believers (vv. 1–7)

Paul rebukes Christians who take their disagreements before unbelieving judges. His point is simple: if we are truly God’s people, then mature believers—guided by God’s wisdom—should help resolve conflicts in the church.

Sadly, some were not just going to court but were defrauding their own brothers and sisters. Paul calls this out sharply:

“Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.” (v. 8)

Fraud is not just a legal wrong—it is a spiritual sin. Paul groups it alongside fornication, idolatry, drunkenness, covetousness, and extortion—sins that exclude a person from the Kingdom of God (vv. 9–10).

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2. When Can Christians Go to Court?

Paul is not saying that Christians must never step into a courtroom. God is not the author of confusion (1 Cor. 14:33) and He is a God of justice (Ps. 89:14). Jesus Himself gave us a clear pattern for resolving conflicts (Matt. 18:15–17):

• First, address the issue privately.

• If needed, take one or two witnesses.

• If still unresolved, involve the church.

• If the person remains unrepentant, the matter may then move to civil authorities.

When a believer stubbornly refuses to repent, refuses restitution, and rejects the church’s counsel, legal redress is not unbiblical. In fact, Scripture commands us to pray for all in authority—including judges and magistrates (1 Tim. 2:2) and to honor governing authorities (Rom. 13:1).

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3. Holiness and Devotion (vv. 11–20)

Paul reminds the Corinthians that they were washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ (v. 11). This identity calls for purity in every part of life—especially in our bodies, which are now temples of the Holy Spirit (v. 19). We belong to God; therefore, everything we do must honor Him.

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Life Application

• Guard your integrity. Fraud, deceit, and oppression are not minor weaknesses; they are sins that grieve God and harm the Body of Christ.

• Seek peace and reconciliation first. Exhaust godly avenues of resolution before considering legal action.

• Honor God with your body. Flee every form of immorality. Remember: your life is not your own—you were bought at a price (v. 20).

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Prayer

Father, thank You for washing, sanctifying, and justifying me in Christ. Help me walk in integrity with my brothers and sisters. Keep me from dishonoring Your name in my dealings, and teach me to honor You in my body and spirit, which belong to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessings,

Deacon Thomson Imonopi

Fortified City Church