1 Corinthians 6:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 6:10 mean?

1 Corinthians 6:10 says that people who are thieves, greedy, drunkards, those who insult others, or those who take advantage of others will not inherit the kingdom of God. The verse lists specific behaviors that, according to Paul, are not compatible with belonging to God’s kingdom.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing problems of behavior among believers. He is warning them that certain actions, which were common in their society, are not acceptable for followers of Jesus. This verse is part of a larger section where Paul is urging the church to live differently from the world around them.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 6:10

• "Thieves" (κλέπται, kleptai): This word refers to those who steal or take what is not theirs. Paul is clear that such actions are not in line with the values of God’s kingdom.
• "Covetous" (πλεονέκται, pleonektai): This term means those who are greedy or always wanting more, especially at the expense of others. It highlights that not just actions, but desires and attitudes matter.
• "Revilers" (λοίδοροι, loidoroi): This word points to people who insult, slander, or verbally abuse others. Paul includes harmful speech as a serious issue, not just physical actions.
• "Extortioners" (ἅρπαγες, harpages): This refers to those who take by force or exploit others for personal gain. The focus is on unjust gain and abuse of power.
• "Inherit" (κληρονομήσουσιν, klēronomēsousin): The Greek word here means to receive something as an heir. Paul is saying that those who practice these things will not receive the blessings or future promised to God’s people.

Why 1 Corinthians 6:10 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul is not just talking about belief, but about how people live and treat others as evidence of belonging to God’s kingdom.
• The list includes both actions (like stealing) and attitudes (like greed), showing that both outward behavior and inward motives are important.
• In the wider passage, Paul is urging the Corinthian church to be distinct from the surrounding culture, reminding them that following Jesus means a real change in how they live.