1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Concluding his counsel on food, freedom, and conscience, Paul rises to a universal principle that governs every action, not only the debated matters before the Corinthians.
What Does 1 Corinthians 10:31 Mean?
Paul gives a sweeping principle that gathers up his whole discussion: whatever you do, even the most ordinary acts of eating and drinking, do it all to the glory of God. Nothing is too small or too common to be offered for God's honor. This single sentence reaches into every corner of daily life, dissolving the line between sacred and secular activities.
The Corinthians had been wrestling with debatable matters -- what to eat, where to dine, how to treat the consciences of others. Paul lifts their eyes above the disputes to a unifying goal: God's glory in everything. To do something "to the glory of God" is to act in a way that honors Him, reflects His goodness, and keeps His worth in view. This transforms routine into worship. The meal, the work, the conversation, the rest -- all become opportunities to magnify God when done with Him in mind. The verse frees the believer from a fragmented life where only a few activities count as spiritual. Instead, the entire day becomes a canvas for honoring God. It also provides a simple test for any decision: will this bring glory to God? That question, faithfully asked, reorients an ordinary life toward its highest purpose.
In the Original Language
The Greek "doxa" (glory) refers to honor, splendor, and the display of God's worth. The phrase "panta ... poieite" (do all) sweeps every action into this single aim.
Cross References
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
- Colossians 3:17
“For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever.”
- Romans 11:36
“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”
- 1 Corinthians 6:20
Application
Let God's honor be the goal of even your most ordinary actions, turning eating, working, and resting into opportunities to magnify Him.