1 Corinthians 15:33-34 Explained
Do Not Be Deceived: The Dangers of Bad Company
In 1 Corinthians 15:33-34, the apostle Paul writes:
"Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good morals. Wake up from your drunken state and stop sinning; and do not go on sinning. For some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame." (NIV)
In this passage, Paul warns the Corinthian church about the dangers of associating with people who can corrupt their morals. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the company we keep and how it can impact our spiritual lives.
The Dangers of Bad Company
Paul's warning is clear: bad company can corrupt good morals. When we surround ourselves with people who engage in sinful behavior or have a lack of knowledge of God, we put ourselves at risk of being influenced by their wrong values and actions. This can lead to a compromise of our faith and a weakening of our moral character.
The Power of Association
The Bible teaches us that our relationships can have a profound impact on our lives. Proverbs 13:20 says, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." When we surround ourselves with people who share our values and goals, we are more likely to grow spiritually and make progress in our walk with God.
On the other hand, when we associate with people who are opposed to God or who engage in sinful behavior, we can be drawn away from God and towards sin. This is why Paul warns the Corinthians to be careful about the company they keep.
Waking Up from Spiritual Slumber
Paul's exhortation to "wake up from your drunken state" is a call to spiritual alertness. He urges the Corinthians to shake off their spiritual lethargy and become aware of the dangers of bad company. This is not a call to self-righteousness, but rather a call to spiritual awareness and diligence.
The Importance of Knowing God
Paul's final statement, "for some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame," is a reminder of the importance of knowing God and His character. When we have a deep understanding of God's nature and His will for our lives, we are better equipped to resist the corrupting influence of bad company.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 15:33-34, Paul reminds us of the importance of being mindful of the company we keep and the dangers of associating with people who can corrupt our morals. He urges us to wake up from our spiritual slumber and to seek a deeper understanding of God and His character. May we take heed of Paul's warning and strive to surround ourselves with people who will encourage and support us in our walk with God.
