1 Corinthians 6:14-7:1

Discussion of Content:

Then: Keener(p. 192) marks the supposed interpolation as a digression, stating that Paul often used frameworks of other text, then presented an argument for an illustrative aspect of his main topic. At this point, Paul is moving towards the end of an emotional appeal. He fights for the sake of purity. He wants the Corinthians to sever all relationships with unbelievers, iniquity, darkness, Satan, temple idols so that God can abide in their hearts. He cites the promise of Exodus 29:45 that he will dwell with the children of Israel and he will be their father. Because of the promises, Paul calls upon the Corinthians to choose clean hearts and open minds.

Now: The passage was accepted by the biblical conferees and has teaching points similar to those made in many of Paul's other writings. Non-believers are not part of the kingdom of God. Unless treated accordingly, they have no chance of questioning their own position and commiting themselves to Christ. Kenner also points out that Paul's use of unusual words - the unequal yoke - balances the form of opposites (believers, unbelievers; temple of idols, temple of God).

Corinthians by Craig S. Keener (New York: Cambridge University Press, c2005) http://books.google.com/books?id=vzPk-xwUTNEC&dq=2+Corinthians+Commentary&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=5wEQS93PDYfUlAfr9KixAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=13&ved=0CDYQ6AEwDA#v=onepage&q=2%20Corinthians%20Commentary&f=false