After using the Isthmian Games of Corinth to urge the Corinthian church to exercise self-control in all things, Paul now uses the Israelites who were part of the Exodus to teach lessons about self-control (or lack thereof) to the Corinthians.

What we learn from Israel’s history is that people who witnessed the mighty acts of God would soon be “laid low in the wilderness—10:5. This sermon focuses on the shared experiences of those who came out of Egypt by God’s intervention through Moses.

God provided His presence and protection through the cloud. They were “baptized into Moses” in a way that reminds us that we have been “baptized into Christ.” God’s miraculous provision was through manna and water from the Rock.

These events are commemorated in the OT as in Deuteronomy 32 and Nehemiah 9 which we cite. The event of the Exodus served to bring correction to wayward Israel later in her history. Likewise, events in the gospels allude to the Manna and the supernatural supply of water under Moses.

We cite the woman at the well incident in John 4 as well as the multiplication of the bread in John 6 as places where Jesus is revealed at the true Provider for those who believe in Him. As in the Exodus, many still failed to trust Christ.

The point of our passage in 1 Corinthians 10:1-4 is that the shared experience of salvation does not give reason to lack diligence and self-control. The danger of false assurance faced the Corinthians as they were dining in idol temples and failing to crucify sinful lusts. Paul will continue to warn them.