1 Corinthians 6:17

But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

But {G1161} he that is joined {G2853} unto the Lord {G2962} is {G2076} one {G1520} spirit {G4151}.

but the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit.

But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with Him in spirit.

But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

Commentary

Context

First Corinthians 6:17 is a pivotal verse within Paul's discourse on Christian liberty, sexual immorality, and the sanctity of the believer's body. Leading up to this verse, Paul addresses various issues in the Corinthian church, including lawsuits among believers and, more specifically, the pervasive problem of sexual immorality (fornication) within the congregation (1 Corinthians 6:12-16). He argues strongly against joining a believer's body—which is a member of Christ—with a harlot, emphasizing the spiritual unity that occurs in such an act. Verse 17 then provides the profound counter-point, highlighting the true and holy union that Christians share with the Lord, which stands in stark contrast to any unholy entanglement.

Key Themes

  • Profound Spiritual Union: The central theme is the deep, spiritual intimacy and unity that a believer experiences with the Lord Jesus Christ. This union is not merely intellectual or emotional, but a mystical, transformative bond.
  • Holiness and Purity: By stating that one "is one spirit" with the Lord, Paul underscores the call to holiness. This spiritual union demands a life that reflects the purity and nature of Christ, providing a powerful reason to flee fornication and other sins.
  • The Indwelling Holy Spirit: The phrase "one spirit" refers to the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers and serves as the divine agent facilitating this spiritual union with Christ. It signifies that the believer's human spirit is merged, in purpose and essence, with the Spirit of God.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "joined" is kollao (κολλάω), which means to glue, to cleave, to stick fast, or to unite firmly. It conveys a sense of inseparable attachment, much like two things being permanently bonded together. This same word is used in 1 Corinthians 6:16 to describe the union between a man and a harlot, creating a powerful linguistic contrast. Paul uses the same strong term for both spiritual and physical union to highlight the profound nature of each. The phrase "one spirit" (hen pneuma - ἓν πνεῦμα) emphasizes this singular, unified spiritual reality, not implying a loss of individual identity but a complete alignment and communion with the Lord.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 6:17 serves as a foundational truth about their identity and purpose. Because we are "one spirit" with the Lord:

  • Our Identity is in Christ: This verse defines who we are: intimately united with Christ. This profound union should shape our self-perception and worldview, reminding us that we are no longer our own, having been bought with a price.
  • Motivation for Holy Living: Understanding this spiritual bond provides a powerful motivation for righteous living. Since our bodies and spirits are united with the Lord and are temples of the Holy Spirit, we are called to glorify God in every aspect of our lives, especially in how we use our bodies.
  • Spiritual Empowerment: This union means we are not alone. The Spirit of God within us empowers us to live righteously, to overcome temptation, and to bear fruit that honors Him. It's a call to actively live out the implications of being abiding in Him.

This verse reminds us that our relationship with God is not distant or merely transactional, but a deep, personal, and spiritual union that permeates every part of our being, demanding a life of holiness and devotion.

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Cross-References

  • John 17:21 (35 votes)

    That they all may be one; as thou, Father, [art] in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

  • John 17:23 (35 votes)

    I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

  • Galatians 2:20 (32 votes)

    I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:13 (21 votes)

    For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether [we be] Jews or Gentiles, whether [we be] bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

  • Ephesians 4:3 (17 votes)

    Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

  • Ephesians 4:4 (17 votes)

    [There is] one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

  • John 3:6 (16 votes)

    That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.