New Testament
1 Corinthians 6:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't you know that your bodies are parts of Christ himself? Should I take what belongs to Christ and unite it with a prostitute? Absolutely not!
Compare translations
Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.
What 1 Corinthians 6:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the deep connection between believers and Christ. He reminds us that our bodies are not just our own; they are part of something much greater. When we engage in actions that compromise our integrity, like uniting with someone who does not share our values, we are misusing what belongs to Christ. This is a serious matter because it affects our relationship with Him. Paul is clear: we should not take the sacredness of our bodies and join them with anything that diminishes their value. Our choices matter, and they reflect our commitment to Christ. This teaching encourages us to honor our bodies and recognize their significance in our spiritual journey. By understanding this connection, we can make choices that align with our faith and values, leading to a more fulfilling life. Remember, our actions have consequences, and we are called to live in a way that reflects our identity in Christ, not just in our spiritual lives but in every aspect of our existence.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 6:15 to your life
Consider how your choices reflect your values and beliefs. Are there areas in your life where you might be compromising your integrity? Strive to make decisions that honor your body and your relationship with Christ. Remember, every action is a reflection of your commitment to your faith. Choose wisely and live authentically in your daily life.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Corinthians 6:15
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Corinthians 6:15
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 6:15 mean?
1 Corinthians 6:15 emphasizes that believers' bodies are part of Christ, highlighting the importance of maintaining integrity in our actions. Paul warns against uniting our bodies with those who do not share our values, as it misuses what belongs to Christ.
What is the meaning of 'members of Christ' in 1 Corinthians 6:15?
The phrase 'members of Christ' refers to believers being integral parts of the body of Christ. This signifies a deep spiritual connection and responsibility to honor our bodies and choices in alignment with our faith.
How does 1 Corinthians 6:15 apply to my life?
1 Corinthians 6:15 encourages you to reflect on your choices and how they align with your values and faith. It serves as a reminder to honor your body and make decisions that reflect your commitment to Christ.
What does Paul mean by 'unite it with a prostitute' in 1 Corinthians 6:15?
Paul uses the example of uniting with a prostitute to illustrate the seriousness of compromising one's integrity. He stresses that such actions diminish the sacredness of our bodies, which are meant to honor Christ.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.