1 Corinthians 10:20–22: Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons. Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He?
It was true that an idol was nothing, but the ultimate reality behind pagan religion was demonic. Pagan sacrifices were offered to demons, not to God. Through his minions “the god of this age” blinded unbelievers and kept them from the truth. There could be no union for good between Christ and Belial (2 Cor. 6:15). So those who were the temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19) should shun the temple of idols. No magical contamination was conveyed, but the corrupt character of the participants would be harmful for believers. Being participants with demons was unthinkable for those who are participants with Christ. Most importantly such behavior displeased God. 1
Application
- Read 2 Corinthians 4:3-4. Who veils our eyes from seeing the truth of the gospel?
- Read 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. What does it mean to be unequally yoked? Does this apply only to marriage relationships? What about business partnerships?
Thought to Share
Opened eyes see the glory of Jesus in the gospels. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, please lift the veil of darkness from our loved ones eyes, so they can see the saving love of Jesus in the Gospels.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
