1 corinthians 5:8 - Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old yeast, neither with the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Generated Verse: 1 corinthians 5:8

What does "1 corinthians 5:8" mean?


This verse from 1 Corinthians 5:8 is part of Paul's instruction to the Corinthian church about how to deal with sin within their community, specifically sexual immorality. Let's break down the meaning:

"Therefore let us keep the feast..." This refers to the Passover feast. Paul is using the imagery of Passover, a Jewish celebration commemorating their liberation from slavery in Egypt, to illustrate a spiritual truth for Christians. The Passover involved removing all yeast (leaven) from the house. Paul is urging the Corinthians to celebrate their new life in Christ with a similar spiritual "cleansing."

"...not with old yeast, neither with the yeast of malice and wickedness..." Here, "yeast" (or leaven) is a metaphor for sin, and specifically, "malice and wickedness." Just as a little yeast can permeate an entire batch of dough, sin can corrupt the whole church. "Old yeast" might refer to ingrained sinful habits or the continuation of old ways of living before Christ. "Malice and wickedness" are specific types of sins that were likely present and causing problems in the Corinthian church. It is important to remember that sin will grow and impact the whole, if it is not dealt with.

"...but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." "Unleavened bread" is the antithesis of "yeast." It represents purity, honesty, and a genuine commitment to living according to God's will. "Sincerity and truth" are the virtues that should characterize the Christian life, replacing the malice and wickedness.

In essence, the verse is urging the Corinthian church to:

1. Purge out sin: Just as the Israelites had to remove all leaven from their homes before Passover, the Corinthian church needed to cleanse themselves of sin, particularly malice and wickedness.
2. Live in purity: Instead of clinging to old sinful habits, they should embrace a life of sincerity and truth in their relationship with God and with each other.
3. Celebrate in newness: They should celebrate their freedom from sin in Christ with a spirit of purity and genuine devotion.

Application for today:

While this passage was specifically addressed to the Corinthian church in a particular context, it holds timeless lessons for Christians today:

Be vigilant against sin: We should be aware of the corrupting influence of sin in our lives and in our communities.
Strive for purity: We are called to live lives of sincerity, honesty, and truth, reflecting the character of Christ.
Embrace a life of transformation: Through Christ, we can experience a new life free from the bondage of sin and filled with the joy of walking in His light.

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