Let’s talk about sex! In today’s episode, Dr. Manny Arango dives into 1 Corinthians 5-7, tackling the tough topics of sex, sexuality, and the Christian ethic in a culture dominated by immorality. From temple prostitution at the Temple of Aphrodite to modern-day parallels, we unpack Paul’s bold instructions to the Corinthian church. Learn why sexual purity is vital for spiritual growth, how Paul navigates gray areas with Spirit-led wisdom, and what it means to honor God in this area of life.

✈️ Overview:

• Paul addresses sexual immorality, specifically a scandal involving incest within the Corinthian church (1 Cor. 5).

• The cultural backdrop includes rampant sexual freedom in Corinth, home to the infamous Temple of Aphrodite and its temple prostitutes.

• Paul calls for purity and integrity, challenging believers to model Christlike behavior in a sexually permissive culture.

• Chapter 7 shifts to relationships, marriage, and advice for believers navigating complicated situations.

🔎 Context Clues:

• Temple of Aphrodite: Known for sacred prostitution, this temple exemplified Corinth’s morally lax culture.

• Corinthian Reputation: The Greek term Corinthianize meant “to live immorally,” highlighting the city’s association with debauchery.

• Legal and Cultural Standards: Paul’s rebuke of the incestuous relationship reflects both biblical and Greco-Roman moral codes, as even pagans condemned such acts.

• Church Discipline: Paul calls for the man involved in the scandal to be “handed over to Satan,” meaning turned over to legal authorities for justice.

🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:

• The Greek words malakoi (effeminate/passive partner) and arsenokoitai (active homosexual partner) appear in 1 Cor. 6:9, emphasizing Paul’s comprehensive stance against sexual immorality.

• Sacred prostitution in Corinth wasn’t limited to heterosexual encounters; it encompassed same-sex relationships and other forms of exploitation.

• Paul balances authority with humility in 1 Cor. 7:12 and 7:25, offering practical, Spirit-led advice when no direct command from Jesus exists.

• Corinthianize was a derogatory term in ancient plays, symbolizing Corinth’s deeply ingrained immorality.

✅ Timeless Truths:

• Sexual Purity Matters: Our sexuality is deeply tied to our spiritual health and witness as believers.

• Grace vs. Tolerance: Paul warns against abusing grace by tolerating sin. Love doesn’t mean ignoring wrongdoing—it means pursuing holiness.

• Spirit-Led Wisdom: Not all situations have clear answers, but Spirit-led counsel, grounded in Scripture, provides direction.

• The Gospel Flourishes Anywhere: No culture is too corrupt for the transformative power of Christ to take root and thrive.

Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 5-7 remind us that sexual purity is essential for living a life that honors God. Whether confronting blatant sin or navigating complex relational dynamics, Paul offers timeless wisdom and Spirit-led guidance. As Christians, our approach to sex and relationships reflects our commitment to Christ and sets us apart in a culture often at odds with biblical principles.

📖 Subscribe to The Bible Department for more insights into the Bible reading plan, tools to grow your faith, and practical ways to apply Scripture in everyday life. Let’s journey through God’s Word together and tackle the hard topics with grace and truth!

🚀 START HERE!

Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.

📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:

Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.

🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?

Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!

🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOK

Crushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com .

🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETING

Get NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!

👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:

📱 STAY CONNECTED:

📨 EMAIL US!

Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.

💥 MORE RESOURCES:

🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!

SUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-department

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

The Refugee Crisis - What it is and How can Anabaptists Respond