Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

1 CORINTHIANS 10:6KJV
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1 Corinthians 10:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 10:6 mean?

1 Corinthians 10:6 says that the events from Israel’s history serve as examples for Christians, warning them not to desire evil things as the Israelites once did. Paul is urging his readers to learn from the past so they do not repeat the same mistakes.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, reminding them of how the Israelites in the Old Testament fell into temptation and suffered consequences. By calling these stories “examples,” Paul is making it clear that these warnings are meant for believers now, not just for people long ago. The focus is on avoiding the same kind of longing for things that are wrong, which led to trouble for those in the past.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 10:6

  • The word “examples” is τύπος (typos), which often means a pattern, model, or warning. Paul is saying the events in Israel’s history are not just stories but serve as patterns to teach and caution believers.
  • The word “lusted” is ἐπιθυμέω (epithymeō), which means to strongly desire or crave, especially for something forbidden. Paul is highlighting that the Israelites’ downfall began with their inner cravings, not just their outward actions.
  • The phrase “evil things” is τὰ κακά (ta kaka), which simply means bad or harmful things. Paul is not just talking about obvious sins, but anything that draws people away from God.

Why 1 Corinthians 10:6 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Old Testament stories are only for history; Paul insists they are relevant warnings for Christians today.
  • Paul’s emphasis on desire shows that sin often begins in the heart, not just in actions, making the warning more personal and searching.
  • The verse connects to the larger passage, where Paul is urging the Corinthians to avoid idolatry and immorality by learning from Israel’s failures, showing that spiritual danger is real for all believers.

Where else these words appear

“examples” Greek G5179 · used in 15 verses

  • John 20:25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
  • Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.

“lusted” Greek G1937 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
  • Luke 22:15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:
  • 1 Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.

“also” Greek G2548 · used in 23 verses

  • Matthew 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
  • Luke 11:7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
  • John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

“evil” Greek G2556 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 21:41 They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.
  • Romans 7:19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
  • Colossians 3:5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: