1 Corinthians 10:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 10:20 mean?

1 Corinthians 10:20 warns that when non-Jewish people (Gentiles) offer sacrifices, they are actually offering them to evil spirits (called "devils" in the KJV) rather than to the true God. Paul urges the Christians in Corinth not to participate in these sacrifices, so they do not share any connection or partnership with these evil spirits.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, a city where idol worship and pagan sacrifices were common. He is explaining that behind these sacrifices, there is a spiritual reality that is not harmless or neutral. Paul’s main concern is that Christians should not mix their worship of God with practices that involve other spiritual beings, which he identifies as "devils" or evil spirits.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 10:20

• "devils" (δαιμόνια, daimonia): This Greek word refers to evil spirits or demons, not just false gods or idols. Paul is emphasizing that pagan sacrifices have a real spiritual dimension, not just empty ritual.
• "fellowship" (κοινωνός, koinōnos): This word means sharing, partnership, or participation. Paul’s warning is that joining in these sacrifices creates a real spiritual connection with evil spirits, not just a social or cultural association.
• "Gentiles" (ἔθνη, ethnē): This term refers to non-Jewish people, often used in the New Testament to mean those outside the faith community. Paul is distinguishing between the practices of Gentiles and the worship of the one true God.

Why 1 Corinthians 10:20 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul sees idol worship as spiritually dangerous, not just a matter of cultural difference or personal preference.
• Paul’s warning helps explain why Christians in Corinth should avoid participating in pagan rituals, even if they seem harmless or are part of social gatherings.
• The verse connects to Paul’s larger teaching in this chapter about the importance of loyalty to God and the spiritual risks of compromising with practices rooted in other religions.