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1 Corinthians 10:19

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

1 Corinthians 10:19 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the apostle Paul is addressing the issue of whether idols have any real power or significance. He questions whether an idol is truly anything at all, or if the sacrifices made to these idols hold any weight. Paul is challenging the belief that these physical objects or rituals have any true power or influence over believers. He goes on to explain that there is only one true God, and that idols are merely man-made constructs with no real divine power. By questioning the validity of idols and sacrifices, Paul is emphasizing the importance of faith in the one true God and the futility of worshiping false gods. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to not be swayed by the false idols of the world.

Theological Overview

In this passage, the apostle Paul is addressing the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols. He is making a theological argument that idols themselves are not real or have any power, so there is no inherent harm in eating food that has been offered to them. This reflects the monotheistic nature of Christianity, which emphasizes that there is only one true God who created all things and rules over all. By stating that the idol is not anything and that the sacrifice to idols is not anything, Paul is asserting that believers should not be swayed by the superstitions or beliefs of the surrounding culture. Instead, they should focus on their relationship with God and live in a way that honors Him. This passage is a reminder that our faith should not be compromised by external practices or beliefs that do not align with the truth of the gospel.

1 Corinthians 10:19 in other translations

American Standard Version

What say I then? that a thing sacrificed to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything?

World English Bible

What am I saying then? That a thing sacrificed to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything?

Douay-Rheims

What then? Do I say that what is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? Or that the idol is any thing?

Geneva Bible (1599)

What say I then? that the idole is any thing? or that that which is sacrificed to idoles, is any thing?