1 Corinthians 5:6

Hebrew Bible Modern 1977

לא טוב התהללכם הלא ידעתם כי מעט שאר מחמץ את כל העסה:

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from 1 Corinthians, Paul is speaking to the Corinthians and tells them that their pride is not good because a little bit of sin can spread like leaven in dough, affecting everything around it.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a small piece of candy that tastes bad. If you mix it into a big bowl of ice cream, all the ice cream will taste bad too. That's what Paul is saying about how a little bit of sin can spoil everything if we're not careful.

Historical Background

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter around 53-54 AD to the Corinthian church in Greece. The Corinthians were struggling with many issues, including divisions and immoral behavior within their community.

Living It Out Today

Imagine a workplace where gossip starts with one person. Soon, everyone is talking about it, and it affects the entire office environment negatively. This verse reminds us that we must be vigilant of our actions because they can influence others around us.

Topics

• sin
• influence
• community
• morality
• pride
• corruption

Related Verses

• Galatians 5:9
• Matthew 13:33
• Exodus 12:15
• Luke 12:1
• Ephesians 5:8

Recommended Reading

Commentary 1 Corinthians Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Bible Modern Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Paul mean by 'a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump'?

Paul uses this analogy to show that even a small amount of sin can spread and affect everything around it, just like how a little yeast makes all the dough rise.

Why does Paul criticize the Corinthians for their pride?

Paul criticizes them because he believes their pride is blinding them to the serious moral issues within their community, which can spread and harm everyone.

How can this verse be applied in modern church settings?

Church leaders and members should stay vigilant about sin and its influence. They must address small problems before they grow into larger ones that affect the whole congregation.

What are some practical steps to avoid being corrupted by others' sins?

Practically, one can focus on spiritual growth, surround themselves with positive influences, and be proactive in addressing sinful behaviors within their community.