Chapter 10 is a conclusion of Paul’s comments in the previous 2 chapters. Paul is still answering the question is it right to eat meat offered to idols. I read about what took place in ancient temples built for various idols. It helps in understanding this question and Paul’s answer.
Idol worship started with slaughtering animals at the idol. The offering blood would pour out on the idol. Some would drink the blood. The meat would be prepared and the gatherers would eat. If any food was left over it would be sold in the marketplace. The food was paid for by the worshippers. The more money spent, the better meat choices and seats.
While they ate they would be entertained with dance usually very provocative and seductive. Again the more money spent the better performance and seats. After they ate and were entertained the worshipers would partake in dance and reverie. Idolatry included wild sensual parties and orgies. Many prostitutes were there. For the right price, an idol worshiper could purchase a prostitute. One temple in Corinth had 1,000 prostitutes.
Paul told the Christians in Corinth that they could eat the meat at the temple and that which was sold at the marketplace. However, he said that they should not partake in prostitution that included idol worship. Instead, they should stay true to their wives and husbands.
Paul uses ancient Israel as an example and a warning to the Corinthian congregation and me. Israel was lead out of Egypt by the grace of God. God gave Israel all kinds of gifts including mana, meat, protection, water, and promises. They were baptized when they went through the Red Sea. They were under the cloud canopy when they received the Old Covenant. Even though Israel received all this they fell from grace for various reasons including the same type of idolatry practiced in Corinth.
The church and I are in parallel with ancient Israel. I have received all kinds of gifts similar if not the same or better than Israel. I should take heed and learn not to grumble and complain nor give up and indulge in modern idolatry. I should not set my heart on evil things as Israel did. I should not test Christ.
Yet, I need not fear for “he will not let me be tempted beyond what I can bear. But when I am tempted, he will also provide a way out so that I can endure it.”
