Lesson 4 | Understanding 1 Corinthians 6:19 – 20 | July 18-24

Lesson 4: Understanding the Memory Text

Memory Text

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NIV)

Summary

• Our world tells us that our bodies belong to us and that we are free to live however we choose.
• But God gives us a different picture.
• This week’s lesson reminds us that becoming a Christian changes more than what we believe.
• It changes how we live, how we treat others, and even how we care for our own bodies.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…”

• In the Old Testament, God’s presence filled the sanctuary.
• Today, through the Holy Spirit, God desires to live in every believer.
• This means our bodies are not ordinary.
• They are places where God’s presence is meant to be seen through our thoughts, words, and actions.
• That is why Paul calls us to live pure and holy lives, even when the world says otherwise.

“…who is in you, whom you have received from God…”

• The Holy Spirit is God’s gift to everyone who trusts in Christ.
• He helps us understand God’s Word, gives us strength to resist temptation, and changes us from the inside out.
• We are not left to fight sin by our own strength.
• God Himself is at work in us, helping us become more like Jesus each day.

“You are not your own…”

• These words remind us that our lives are no longer centered on ourselves.
• When we accepted Jesus, we chose to follow Him as our Lord.
• Instead of asking, “What do I want?” we begin asking, “What pleases God?”
• This changes the way we make decisions, build relationships, and use the gifts He has given us.

“…you were bought at a price.”

• That price was the life of Jesus on the cross.
• He gave Himself so that our sins could be forgiven and our lives could be made new.
• Knowing how much Christ paid to save us should fill our hearts with gratitude.
• We do not obey God to earn His love.
• We obey because His love has already been shown to us through Jesus.

“Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

• Because we belong to Christ, our whole life should bring glory to Him.
• This includes how we speak, what we watch, where we go, and how we care for our bodies.
• The lesson especially reminds us that God’s plan for purity protects our relationship with Him and with others.
• When we choose His way instead of the world’s way, we reflect His character and become a stronger witness for His kingdom.

What This Means for You

• Maybe you are struggling with habits, temptations, or choices that pull you away from God.
• Remember that you are not fighting alone.
• The same Jesus who died to save you has given you His Spirit to strengthen and guide you every day.
• As you surrender your life to Him, He will help you honor Him in both body and spirit.

A Final Thought

• Your life has great value because Jesus gave His life to redeem you.
• Let every choice you make reflect your gratitude for His sacrifice.
• When Christ lives in you, your life becomes a living testimony that God is still changing hearts today.