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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Corinthians 10:21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons too.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/10-21.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/46_1Co_10_21.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 10:21 - Flee from Idolatry" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons too." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_corinthians/10-21.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_corinthians/10-21.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/">1 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/10.htm">Chapter 10</a> > Verse 21</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm" title="1 Corinthians 10:20">◄</a> 1 Corinthians 10:21 <a href="/1_corinthians/10-22.htm" title="1 Corinthians 10:22">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/10.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/10.htm">New International Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord&#8217s table and the table of demons. <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/10.htm">New Living Translation</a> You cannot drink from the cup of the Lord and from the cup of demons, too. You cannot eat at the Lord’s Table and at the table of demons, too. <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/10.htm">English Standard Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons too. <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> You are not able to drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You are not able to partake of the table of the Lord and of the table of demons. <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/10.htm">King James Bible</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. <a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/10.htm">New King James Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons. <a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/10.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/10.htm">NASB 1995</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/10.htm">NASB 1977 </a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/amp/1_corinthians/10.htm">Amplified Bible</a> You cannot drink [both] the Lord’s cup and the cup of demons. You cannot share in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons [thereby becoming partners with them]. <a href="/csb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot share in the Lord’s table and the table of demons. <a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot share in the Lord&#8217s table and the table of demons. <a href="/asv/1_corinthians/10.htm">American Standard Version</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: ye cannot partake of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons. <a href="/cev/1_corinthians/10.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You cannot drink from the cup of demons and still drink from the Lord's cup. You cannot eat at the table of demons and still eat at the Lord's table. <a href="/erv/1_corinthians/10.htm">English Revised Version</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot partake of the table of the Lord, and of the table of devils. <a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/10.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> You cannot drink the Lord's cup and the cup of demons. You cannot participate at the table of the Lord and at the table of demons. <a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/10.htm">Good News Translation</a> You cannot drink from the Lord's cup and also from the cup of demons; you cannot eat at the Lord's table and also at the table of demons. <a href="/isv/1_corinthians/10.htm">International Standard Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot dine with the Lord and dine with demons, <a href="/msb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons too. <a href="/net/1_corinthians/10.htm">NET Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot take part in the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/10.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> You cannot both drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot both partake of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons. <a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/10.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of demons. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You cannot drink the Lord's cup and the cup of demons: you cannot be joint-partakers both in the table of the Lord and in the table of demons. <a href="/web/1_corinthians/10.htm">World English Bible</a> You can’t both drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You can’t both partake of the table of the Lord and of the table of demons. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/10.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> You are not able to drink the cup of the LORD and the cup of demons; you are not able to partake of the table of the LORD and of the table of demons; <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> You are not able to drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You are not able to partake of the table of the Lord and of the table of demons. <a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/10.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Ye are not able the cup of the Lord to drink, and the cup of demons; ye are not able of the table of the Lord to partake, and of the table of demons; <a href="/slt/1_corinthians/10.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: ye cannot partake of the table of the Lord, and the table of demons.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> You cannot drink the chalice of the Lord, and the chalice of devils: you cannot be partakers of the table of the Lord, and of the table of devils. <a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/10.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons. You cannot be partakers of the table of the Lord, and partakers of the table of demons. <a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/10.htm">New American Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and also the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and of the table of demons. <a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/10.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/10.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> You cannot drink the cup of our LORD, and the cup of devils: you cannot be partakers of the table of our LORD and of the table of devils. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/10.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> You cannot drink the cup of our Lord and of the cup of demons, and you cannot share in the table of our Lord and in the table of demons.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/10.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> You can not drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: you can not be partakers of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons. <a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/10.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> You are not able to drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: you are not able to partake of the table of the Lord, and the table of demons. <a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/10.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of d锟絤ons: ye cannot be partakers of the table of the Lord, and the table of d锟絤ons. <a href="/mace/1_corinthians/10.htm">Mace New Testament</a> you should not drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: you should not be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of demons. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You cannot drink the Lord's cup and the cup of demons: you cannot be joint-partakers both in the table of the Lord and in the table of demons. <a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/10.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; ye cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. <a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/10.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And I would not have you partakers with demons. Ye cannot drink of the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: ye cannot be partakers of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons. <a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-wZWoK_LZU?start=2103" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/10.htm">Flee from Idolatry</a> …20No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God. And I do not want you to be participants with demons. 21<a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1410.htm" title="1410: dynasthe (V-PIM/P-2P) -- (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible.">You cannot</a> <a href="/greek/4095.htm" title="4095: pinein (V-PNA) -- To drink, imbibe. A prolonged form of pio, which poo occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe.">drink</a> <a href="/greek/4221.htm" title="4221: potērion (N-ANS) -- A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. ">the cup</a> <a href="/greek/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyriou (N-GMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">of the Lord</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4221.htm" title="4221: potērion (N-ANS) -- A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. ">the cup</a> <a href="/greek/1140.htm" title="1140: daimoniōn (N-GNP) -- An evil-spirit, demon; a heathen deity. Neuter of a derivative of daimon; a d?Monic being; by extension a deity.">of demons too;</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1410.htm" title="1410: dynasthe (V-PIM/P-2P) -- (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible.">you cannot</a> <a href="/greek/3348.htm" title="3348: metechein (V-PNA) -- From meta and echo; to share or participate; by implication, belong to, eat.">partake</a> <a href="/greek/5132.htm" title="5132: trapezēs (N-GFS) -- Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money.">in the table</a> <a href="/greek/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyriou (N-GMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">of the Lord</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/5132.htm" title="5132: trapezēs (N-GFS) -- Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money.">the table</a> <a href="/greek/1140.htm" title="1140: daimoniōn (N-GNP) -- An evil-spirit, demon; a heathen deity. Neuter of a derivative of daimon; a d?Monic being; by extension a deity.">of demons too.</a> 22Are we trying to provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He?…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a> No one can serve two masters: Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-14.htm">2 Corinthians 6:14-16</a> Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness? / What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? / What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.” <a href="/james/4-4.htm">James 4:4</a> You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God. <a href="/1_john/2-15.htm">1 John 2:15-16</a> Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. / For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world. <a href="/revelation/3-15.htm">Revelation 3:15-16</a> I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! / So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth! <a href="/romans/12-2.htm">Romans 12:2</a> Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. <a href="/galatians/5-19.htm">Galatians 5:19-21</a> The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; / idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, / and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. <a href="/ephesians/5-11.htm">Ephesians 5:11</a> Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. <a href="/1_peter/2-9.htm">1 Peter 2:9</a> But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. <a href="/1_john/5-21.htm">1 John 5:21</a> Little children, keep yourselves from idols. <a href="/deuteronomy/32-17.htm">Deuteronomy 32:17</a> They sacrificed to demons, not to God, to gods they had not known, to newly arrived gods, which your fathers did not fear. <a href="/psalms/16-4.htm">Psalm 16:4</a> Sorrows will multiply to those who chase other gods. I will not pour out their libations of blood, or speak their names with my lips. <a href="/isaiah/65-11.htm">Isaiah 65:11</a> But you who forsake the LORD, who forget My holy mountain, who set a table for Fortune and fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny, <a href="/jeremiah/7-18.htm">Jeremiah 7:18</a> The sons gather wood, the fathers light the fire, and the women knead the dough to make cakes for the Queen of Heaven; they pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke Me to anger. <a href="/ezekiel/20-39.htm">Ezekiel 20:39</a> And as for you, O house of Israel, this is what the Lord GOD says: Go and serve your idols, every one of you. But afterward, you will surely listen to Me, and you will no longer defile My holy name with your gifts and idols.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>You cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: you cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.cannot drink.<a href="/1_corinthians/10-16.htm">1 Corinthians 10:16</a> The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?<a href="/1_corinthians/8-10.htm">1 Corinthians 8:10</a> For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;<a href="/deuteronomy/32-37.htm">Deuteronomy 32:37,38</a> And he shall say, Where are their gods, their rock in whom they trusted, … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/10-16.htm">Cup</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Demons</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Devils</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-7.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-18.htm">Joint-Partakers</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-34.htm">Lord's</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Part</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-17.htm">Partake</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-18.htm">Partakers</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-22.htm">Possible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm">Spirits</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-10.htm">Table</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-7.htm">Time</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/11-25.htm">Cup</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-1.htm">Demons</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-1.htm">Devils</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-31.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-30.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-18.htm">Joint-Partakers</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-22.htm">Lord's</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-30.htm">Part</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-30.htm">Partake</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-7.htm">Partakers</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-20.htm">Possible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-10.htm">Spirits</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-2.htm">Table</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-25.htm">Time</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 10</div>1. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-1.htm">The sacraments of the Jews are types of ours;</a> 7. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-7.htm">and their punishments,</a> 11. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-11.htm">examples for us.</a> 13. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-13.htm">We must flee from idolatry.</a> 21. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">We must not make the Lord's table the table of demons;</a> 24. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-24.htm">and in all things we must have regard for our brothers.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/10.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_corinthians/10.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; This phrase emphasizes the exclusivity of Christian worship and allegiance. In the context of 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses the issue of idolatry and participation in pagan rituals. The "cup of the Lord" refers to the communion cup, symbolizing the blood of Christ shed for believers. Drinking from this cup signifies a covenant relationship with Jesus, akin to the covenant established at the Last Supper (<a href="/matthew/26-27.htm">Matthew 26:27-28</a>). The "cup of demons" alludes to pagan sacrifices and rituals, which were common in Corinth, a city known for its diverse religious practices and temples. Paul warns against syncretism, the blending of Christian and pagan practices, which was a temptation for early Christians living in a polytheistic society. This duality is incompatible with the Christian faith, as it contradicts the first commandment (<a href="/exodus/20-3.htm">Exodus 20:3</a>) and the call to holiness (<a href="/1_peter/1-16.htm">1 Peter 1:16</a>).you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons too. The "table of the Lord" refers to the Lord's Supper, a sacred meal commemorating Jesus' sacrifice and fostering unity among believers (<a href="/1_corinthians/11-23.htm">1 Corinthians 11:23-26</a>). In contrast, the "table of demons" represents participation in pagan feasts, which often involved idol worship and immoral activities. The early church faced pressure to conform to societal norms, including attending such feasts, which were integral to social and economic life in Corinth. Paul draws a clear line, urging believers to remain distinct and separate from idolatrous practices (<a href="/2_corinthians/6-14.htm">2 Corinthians 6:14-17</a>). This call to separation echoes the Old Testament, where Israel was repeatedly warned against idolatry (<a href="/deuteronomy/32-17.htm">Deuteronomy 32:17</a>). The imagery of tables highlights the intimate fellowship and shared values inherent in communal meals, underscoring the incompatibility of serving both God and idols (<a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with guidance and correction. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece known for its diverse culture and significant pagan influences, which posed challenges for the early Christian community. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord's_table.htm">The Lord's Table</a> Refers to the Christian practice of communion, symbolizing fellowship with Christ and remembrance of His sacrifice. 4. <a href="/topical/d/demons.htm">Demons</a> Spiritual beings opposed to God, often associated with pagan worship and idolatry in the biblical context. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of idolatry and moral compromise.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/e/exclusive_allegiance_to_christ.htm">Exclusive Allegiance to Christ</a> Christians are called to a singular devotion to Christ. Participating in both the Lord's table and the table of demons represents a divided heart, which is unacceptable in the Christian faith. <a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_compromise.htm">The Danger of Compromise</a> Engaging in practices that are contrary to Christian beliefs, such as idolatry, can lead to spiritual compromise. Believers must be vigilant in maintaining their faith and not be swayed by cultural pressures. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_discernment.htm">Spiritual Discernment</a> Christians need to exercise discernment in their daily lives, recognizing influences that may lead them away from God. This involves being aware of the spiritual implications of their actions and associations. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_community.htm">The Importance of Community</a> The church community plays a vital role in encouraging and holding each other accountable. Believers should support one another in maintaining faithfulness to God. <a href="/topical/l/living_a_consistent_christian_life.htm">Living a Consistent Christian Life</a> Our actions should reflect our beliefs. Consistency in living out our faith is crucial for our witness to the world and our relationship with God.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_10.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 10</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_demonic_stronghold.htm">What defines a demonic stronghold?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'out_of_the_mouth_of_babes'_mean.htm">What is Satanic Ritual Abuse?</a> <a href="/q/why_did_amaziah_adopt_edom's_failed_gods.htm">In 2 Chronicles 25:14–15, why would Amaziah adopt the defeated Edomites’ gods after witnessing their apparent failure to protect Edom? </a> <a href="/q/how_does_1_cor_10_20_align_with_anthropology.htm">If 1 Corinthians 10:20 states that sacrifices to idols are sacrifices to demons, how does this align with anthropological findings on ancient religious practices?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/10.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(21, 22) Ye cannot . . .--Here follows the special reason why the Apostle desires them not to partake of the wine poured forth in libation to devils, or the table on which meat sacrificed to these devils was spread out as food. Such would deprive them of their participation in the cup of the Lord and the table on which the Lord's Supper was placed. Of course the impossibility was moral, not physical. So the Apostle adds the warning question, Do you in fact do so? Do you do that which is morally impossible, and so provoke the jealousy of our jealous God, who will have no divided allegiance? Surely we are not stronger than He? To such a question there can be but one answer. These words, which are the climax of the argument, are naturally suggested by the passage in Deuteronomy (<a href="/context/deuteronomy/32-15.htm" title="But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: you are waxen fat, you are grown thick, you are covered with fatness; then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.">Deuteronomy 32:15-18</a>), which was evidently in the Apostle's mind all through this argument, containing as it does the striking words, "Rock of his salvation." "They sacrifice unto devils and not to God," and "they provoked Him to jealousy."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/10.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 21. - Ye cannot. It is a moral impossibility that you should. The Lord's table. This is the first instance in which this expression is used, and it has originated the name. The table of devils (see <a href="/deuteronomy/32-37.htm">Deuteronomy 32:37</a>). In the fine legend of Persephone, she might have been altogether liberated from the nether world if she had eaten nothing since her sojourn there; but unhappily she had eaten something, though it was only the few grains of a pomegranate; and hence she must leave the upper air, and become the Queen of Hades. <a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>You cannot δύνασθε (dynasthe) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1410.htm">Strong's 1410: </a> (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible. drink πίνειν (pinein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_4095.htm">Strong's 4095: </a> To drink, imbibe. A prolonged form of pio, which poo occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe. [the] cup ποτήριον (potērion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4221.htm">Strong's 4221: </a> A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. of [the] Lord Κυρίου (Kyriou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. [the] cup ποτήριον (potērion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4221.htm">Strong's 4221: </a> A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. of demons [too]; δαιμονίων (daimoniōn) Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1140.htm">Strong's 1140: </a> An evil-spirit, demon; a heathen deity. Neuter of a derivative of daimon; a d?Monic being; by extension a deity. you cannot δύνασθε (dynasthe) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1410.htm">Strong's 1410: </a> (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible. partake μετέχειν (metechein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_3348.htm">Strong's 3348: </a> From meta and echo; to share or participate; by implication, belong to, eat. in [the] table τραπέζης (trapezēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5132.htm">Strong's 5132: </a> Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money. of [the] Lord Κυρίου (Kyriou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. [the] table τραπέζης (trapezēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5132.htm">Strong's 5132: </a> Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money. of demons {too}. δαιμονίων (daimoniōn) Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1140.htm">Strong's 1140: </a> An evil-spirit, demon; a heathen deity. Neuter of a derivative of daimon; a d?Monic being; by extension a deity. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">1 Corinthians 10:21 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-21.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 10:21 You can't both drink the cup (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/10-20.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 10:20"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 10:20" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/10-22.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 10:22"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 10:22" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>