1 Corinthians 6

The Image of God: Our Call to Reflect Heavenly Character

Bible Passage: Genesis 1:26–27

Summary: Genesis 1:26–27 “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

Reveals God's intention in creating humanity not just as beings with intrinsic value, but as reflections of His own character and nature. This foundational truth indicates that our purpose spans beyond existence itself; we are called to embody attributes such as love, justice, and mercy, faithful, patient, good and mirroring God's likeness to the world around us.

Application: This scripture provides powerful motivation for Christians to pursue lives that reflect God's character, particularly in times of difficulty. By embracing our identity as bearers of God's image, we can find strength to show love, grace, and patience in our struggles, which invites others to witness the transformative power of Christ in us.

Teaching: Being created in God's image entails a responsibility to represent His character in our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. This understanding should propel us towards a lifestyle of holiness and service, revealing God’s nature not only to ourselves but also to others through righteous living.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout the Scriptures, the concept of the image of God finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ, who exemplified the fullness of God’s image. In Christ, we see perfect love, humility, and obedience, inspiring us to reflect these traits as a part of our Christian walk and invoking transformation in our lives as we strive to mirror Him.

Big Idea: As bearers of God's image, we each have the profound responsibility and privilege to reflect God's character in our daily lives, thereby serving as ambassadors of His love and grace in a world that desperately needs it.

1. Purposeful Creation: A Divine Reflection

Genesis 1:26

God’s plan for creation included making humans uniquely in His image, emphasizing the relational and purposeful aspect of our identity. This sets a foundation for understanding our lives as reflections of divine characteristics such as love, creativity, and stewardship. This awareness encourages us to seek alignment with God's intentions, living in a way that honors Him by manifesting His attributes.

2. Reflecting His Love:

Genesis 1:27

Highlight how this truth challenges us to view and treat ourselves and others with respect and kindness, reflecting God’s love and justice. This should motivate believers to engage in acts of compassion and fairness, thereby bearing witness to the transformative potential of living out God’s character.

So might ask does that verse “the image of God” means everybody. Yes!

Why?

The image of God is about creation, not behavior. Genesis 1:26–27 says humanity was created in God’s image from the very beginning. It’s part of our design, not something we “earn” by living righteously.

Image of God = Our Created Nature

God made humans in His likeness, giving us:

Rationality – ability to think and make choices

Moral awareness – understanding right and wrong

Creativity – the ability to make and shape the world

Relational capacity – to love and relate to God and others

This image exists regardless of whether we behave perfectly.

Sin distorts the image, but doesn’t erase it. Even after the fall, Scripture still affirms that people are made in God’s image:

Genesis 9:6 – After the flood, God says human life is sacred because humans are made in His image.

James 3:9 – James warns against cursing people “who have been made in God’s likeness,” even when those people do wrong.

Think of it Like a Broken Mirror

A mirror reflects an image—but if it’s cracked or dirty, the reflection is distorted.

Before sin – Humanity perfectly reflected God’s love, holiness, and truth.

After sin – The reflection is still there, but it’s damaged and needs restoration.

Through Christ – That image is renewed (Colossians 3:10 “and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” ; 2 Corinthians 3:18 “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” ).

Bottom line

Even if someone is living in open rebellion against God, they still carry His image—it’s why they have value, dignity, and the capacity to repent and be restored. The tragedy of sin is that it prevents them from reflecting His image as they were meant to until they are reconciled to Him.

Yes today we are going to go over want Paul spoke about in 1 Corinthians chapter 6.

Here’s how you can connect Genesis 1:26–27 with 1 Corinthians 6 so the flow of thought makes sense in teaching, preaching, or small group discussion.

1️⃣ Creation – God’s Design

Genesis 1:26–27

God created mankind in His own image; male and female He created them.

Key truth:

Every person has dignity and value because they are made in God’s image.

Being in His image means we were created to reflect His holiness, love, truth, and righteousness.

Connection to 1 Corinthians 6: Paul’s letter shows that humans were designed for a higher purpose than sin. The Corinthians were made in God’s image—but they were living far below that calling.

2️⃣ Corruption – The Image Distorted

1 Corinthians 6:9–10

Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? … sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, thieves, greedy, drunkards, slanderers, swindlers…

Key truth:

Sin doesn’t destroy the image of God, but it warps it—like a cracked mirror still reflecting, but poorly.

The sins Paul lists are examples of living in ways opposite to God’s character, which we were created to reflect.

Connection to Genesis:

Genesis 1 shows our original purpose; 1 Corinthians 6 shows what happens when that purpose is ignored—our lives no longer mirror God’s holiness.

3️⃣ Restoration – The Image Renewed

1 Corinthians 6:11

That is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Key truth:

Through Christ, the broken image is being restored.

God’s goal isn’t just to forgive sin but to restore us to reflect His image again (Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 3:18).

Connection to Genesis:

Genesis shows who we were made to be.

1 Corinthians 6 shows that Christ redeems and empowers us to once again live out the image we were created in.

Teaching Summary Table

Step Genesis 1:26–27 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 Connection

Creation Made in God’s image, with dignity and purpose— We were designed to reflect God’s holiness

Corruption Image distorted after the fall vv. 9–10: Sin list showing rebellion Sin twists the image so it no longer reflects God’s character

Restoration God’s plan is still to have image-bearers reflect Him. 6:11: Washed, sanctified, justified In Christ, the image is renewed and we can live as God intended

Show Illustration

Now Read What Paul spoke about in 1 Corinthians 6:1-20:

Absolutely! Let’s break down 1 Corinthians 6:1–20 (NIV) verse by verse with explanations and real-life applications. I’ll structure it so it’s easy to follow and teach or study.

1 Corinthians 6:1–20 NIV: Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

Verses 1–6: Lawsuits Among Believers

1 “If any of you has a dispute with another, do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people? 2 Or do you not know that the Lord’s people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! 4 Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church? 5 I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is no one among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? 6 But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!”

Explanation:

Paul rebukes the Corinthians for taking personal disputes before secular courts instead of resolving them within the church.

He reminds them that believers are called to exercise wisdom and judgment, even on everyday matters.

Application:

Resolve conflicts within the church or Christian community first.

Seek wisdom, reconciliation, and humility instead of airing disputes publicly.

Reflect Christ in conflict resolution, showing love and patience rather than pride or selfishness.

Verses 7–11: Warnings Against Immorality

7 The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? 8 Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters. 9 Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men, 10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Explanation:

Paul lists behaviors that reflect lives still dominated by sin, warning that these patterns block inheritance of God’s kingdom.

He emphasizes transformation: believers used to live this way, but through Christ they are washed, sanctified, and justified.

Application:

Recognize behaviors that dishonor God and work to turn from them.

Understand that salvation is by grace through Christ, not behavior—but growth in holiness is evidence of faith.

Encourage personal reflection and accountability in areas like speech, relationships, and finances.

Sometimes people would say and believe that vs 10 where it states: men who have sex with men means something else.

In 1 Corinthians 6:9–10, the Apostle Paul uses two Greek terms—malakoi (μαλακοί) and arsenokoitai (ἀρσενοκοῖται)—to describe individuals whose behaviors are inconsistent with inheriting the kingdom of God. Understanding these terms requires examining their Greek roots and usage in historical and biblical contexts.

🧾 Greek Terms in 1 Corinthians 6:9–10

1. Malakoi (μαλακοί)

Literal Meaning: The term malakos translates to "soft" or "delicate."(Wikipedia)

Contextual Usage: In ancient Greek literature, malakoi often referred to men who were perceived as effeminate or lacking self-control, particularly in their sexual desires. This term was sometimes used to describe individuals who were passive in homosexual relationships, though its application could vary. (Reddit, Wikipedia)

Interpretation: Paul's use of malakoi in this context likely refers to individuals who engage in sexually immoral behaviors, including but not limited to passive roles in same-sex relations.

2. Arsenokoitai (ἀρσενοκοῖται)

Literal Meaning: This compound word combines arsen (ἄρσην), meaning "male," and koite (κοίτη), meaning "bed," thus translating to "men who bed men."(CanyonWalkerConnections)

Historical Context: Paul is believed to have coined this term, possibly drawing from the Septuagint's translation of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, which condemns male-male sexual relations. (Wikipedia)

Interpretation: Arsenokoitai refers to individuals who actively engage in same-sex sexual relations, particularly in exploitative or immoral contexts.

📖 Biblical and Cultural Context

In 1 Corinthians 6:9–10, Paul lists various sinful behaviors, including those associated with malakoi and arsenokoitai, as actions that prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God. This reflects the early Christian understanding that certain sexual behaviors were morally and spiritually detrimental.(Gospel Reformation Network)

It's important to note that these terms were not commonly used in Greek literature outside of the Septuagint and Paul's writings, indicating that Paul may have been introducing specific theological concepts regarding sexual morality.

🧭 Contemporary Application: meaning modern or current times.

The interpretation of these terms has been the subject of much debate in modern theological discussions. Some scholars argue that Paul's teachings on sexual morality are culturally specific and may not directly apply to contemporary understandings of sexual orientation and identity. Others maintain that the principles outlined in these passages continue to offer guidance on sexual ethics within the Christian faith.

In any case, the discussion of malakoi and arsenokoitai underscores the importance of understanding biblical texts within their original languages and cultural contexts to accurately interpret their meanings and applications.

People who argue that 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 “should mean” something different than what it historically meant are usually trying to reinterpret the passage in a modern, inclusive context. Here’s a breakdown:

1️⃣ Modern “Should Mean” Interpretations

It should only condemn exploitative sex, not loving same-sex relationships

Some argue Paul was addressing sexual abuse, temple prostitution, or pederasty, not consensual adult relationships.

This interpretation reframes the text to fit today’s understanding of sexual orientation.

It should reflect modern identity, not behavior

Modern readers often think in terms of being “gay” as an innate identity, not just acts.

They argue the verse shouldn’t label people based on who they are attracted to, but on what they do.

It should be culturally bound, not timeless

Some claim Paul’s instructions were for ancient Corinth only—a culture rife with sexual immorality—and shouldn’t be applied universally today.

2️⃣ Why People Argue This Way

Language differences: Greek words (malakoi, arsenokoitai) are vague and debated.

Cultural context: Ancient sexual practices differ drastically from modern, consensual relationships.

Theological motive: Some want the Bible to affirm modern LGBTQ+ relationships without changing its ethical principles.

Focus on love and inclusion: Many people emphasize verses about God’s love, justice, and inclusion rather than sexual ethics.

3️⃣ Contrast With Original Meaning

Historically, Paul’s focus was on behavior that violates God’s commands: sexual immorality, greed, drunkenness, deceit, etc.

The original audience understood it as acts that defile the body or community, not as a condemnation of a person’s innate sexual orientation.

💡 In short: The “should mean” interpretations try to align the text with modern ethics and identity categories, while the original text was behavior-focused, addressing specific immoral acts in Corinthian culture.

Some people claim that references to “homosexuality” in the Bible are later interpretations or translations, rather than what the original texts specifically said. This stems from how modern terms and categories were applied to ancient texts. Here’s the breakdown:

1️⃣ The Term “Homosexuality” Didn’t Exist in Biblical Times

The word homosexual or homosexuality is modern, coined in the late 19th century (1800s).

Ancient Greek and Hebrew texts never use a term that means “homosexual person” in the way we understand sexual orientation today.

Instead, the Bible describes specific acts or behaviors (arsenokoitai, malakoi, Leviticus 18:22 “lying with a male as with a woman”), not identities.

2️⃣ Translation Choices

Early Bible translations (like the King James Version, 1611) used phrases like “effeminate” or “abusers of themselves with mankind” instead of “homosexuals.”

The NIV (1978) and later modern translations chose “men who have sex with men” for clarity.

Some argue that using the word “homosexual” in modern Bibles is anachronistic, projecting 19th–20th century ideas onto ancient texts.

3️⃣ Ancient vs Modern Understanding

Ancient context: Paul and Leviticus addressed specific sexual behaviors, often exploitative or idolatrous.

Modern concept: Homosexuality today is seen as a sexual orientation or identity, not just a behavior.

Because of this difference, some claim the Bible only refers to acts, and the concept of being “gay” was not part of the text.

4️⃣ Real-Life Implication

This is why debates exist: Some argue the Bible condemns acts, not orientation, while others read modern identity into it.

Understanding original language, culture, and context is key to interpreting what the Bible really says.

💡 Summary:

The Bible never uses the word “homosexuality.” The English word “homosexuality” first appeared in the late 19th century, around 1869. However in the Koine Greek (The language of the N.T)

Malakoi (μαλακοί) – Literally “soft” or “effeminate.”

Used in 1 Corinthians 6:9. Likely referred to passive or morally weak men in sexual contexts, not a sexual orientation.

Arsenokoitai (ἀρσενοκοῖται) – Literally “men who bed men.”

Coined by Paul, probably referencing male-male sexual activity, especially exploitative or idolatrous acts.

Important: The original focus of Both words describe acts or behaviors, not a permanent identity.

Modern Bibles added this term to help readers understand ancient passages in today’s language.

This is an important question because it touches on how Christians balance truth and love when discussing topics like sexuality. Here’s how passages like 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 can be understood in a way that reflects God’s love:

1️⃣ God’s Concern Is for Our Well-Being

Paul’s warnings about sexual immorality aren’t about punishing people arbitrarily.

They are meant to protect people from behaviors that harm the body, mind, relationships, and soul (1 Corinthians 6:18–20).

God’s love is proactive—He sets boundaries because He wants what is best for us.

2️⃣ Focus on Behavior, Not Identity

The verses speak to acts, not innate identity.

Love is shown when Christians distinguish between condemning a harmful action and valuing the person as made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27).

This prevents shaming or hate, and instead promotes guidance toward healthy, life-giving choices.

3️⃣ God Offers Redemption and Transformation

1 Corinthians 6:11 says: “But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”

Even people who engaged in behaviors described in verses 9–10 are loved and offered forgiveness and transformation.

God’s love restores, not just condemns, showing that He wants relationship and wholeness.

4️⃣ Real-Life Application

When talking with someone who is gay, love is shown by:

Respecting their humanity and acknowledging their dignity.

Focusing on God’s principles for life and holiness, not just labeling.

Offering grace and guidance, emphasizing that everyone can experience God’s love and restoration.

The goal is to guide, not shame—to reflect God’s love in both words and actions.

💡 In short:

God’s instructions are not about hate, but about helping people live in the fullness of life He designed.

Telling someone the truth in love reflects God’s concern, respect, and desire for their well-being.

3Verses 12–17: Sexual Immorality

12 “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. 13 You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. 14 By His power God raised the Lord from the dead, and He will raise us also. 15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! 16 Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it says, ‘The two will become one flesh.’ 17 But whoever is united with the Lord is one with Him in spirit.”

Explanation:

Paul confronts a misuse of Christian freedom—doing things that enslave or harm us.

The body is sacred, meant for God and not for sexual sin. Sexual sin is serious because our bodies are connected to Christ.

Application:

Treat your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (v. 19). Avoid patterns of sexual sin.

Make decisions that honor God, even in areas where freedom exists.

Real-life example: Avoid pornography, casual sexual relationships, or any behavior that reduces your body to mere pleasure—it affects your spiritual life.

Verses 18–20: Honoring God with Your Body

18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

Explanation:

Sexual sin is unique in that it directly violates the body, which is indwelt by the Spirit.

That statement means that sexual sin is different from other sins because it doesn’t just affect your mind or actions—it directly affects your body, and your body is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).

Here’s a breakdown:

1️⃣ Our Bodies Are Sacred

God’s Spirit lives in every believer’s body.

Because of that, our bodies are not just physical; they are spiritual vessels meant to honor God.

2️⃣ Sexual Sin Impacts the Body

Sexual sin (like fornication, adultery, pornography, or lustful acts) involves physical actions that misuse the body.

Unlike other sins that may primarily affect thoughts or speech, sexual sin violates the very temple where God’s Spirit resides.

3️⃣ Spiritual Implications

Paul says sexual immorality is a sin “against your own body” (1 Corinthians 6:18).

This means sexual sin hinders your connection with God and can damage your spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being.

4️⃣ Real-Life Application

Treat your body as sacred by avoiding sexual sin and pursuing purity, respect, and self-control.

Recognize that how you use your body affects your relationship with God, others, and yourself.

Example: Choosing not to engage in sexual activity outside of marriage honors both God and your own body as His temple.

💡 In short: Sexual sin is unique because it misuses the very place God’s Spirit lives—your body—so it requires serious attention and decisive action to honor God with your life.

Believers belong to God—they are redeemed at a high cost (Christ’s sacrifice).

Application:

Honor God in your daily decisions about your body, speech, and relationships.

Treat your body as a sacred dwelling place of God’s Spirit.

Practical steps: exercise self-control, set boundaries, pursue accountability, and focus on healthy, God-honoring relationships.

Key Themes from 1 Corinthians 6

Christian community matters – resolve disputes within the church.

Sin has serious consequences – sexual immorality, greed, and deceit are inconsistent with God’s kingdom.

Our bodies belong to God – honor Him in every action, recognizing Christ’s presence in you.

Transformation is real – Christ washes, sanctifies, and restores us from past sin.

💡 Real-Life Application Summary

Handle conflicts maturely and biblically.

Avoid habits or relationships that distort God’s image.

Treat your body as a temple of the Spirit—your lifestyle, choices, and relationships should reflect God’s holiness.

Remember your identity in Christ—you are redeemed and being renewed.