1 Corinthians 10:1

Moreover. Textual evidence attests (cf. p. 10) the reading “for.” This reading shows the proper connection between chs. 9 and 10. Having shown the possibility of his being a castaway, the apostle emphasizes the danger of others also being rejected.

Though greatly favored by God, the Israelites, who left Egypt, failed to receive the reward of entrance into the Promised Land. If they, the chosen people, and those for whom God had wrought so many mighty miracles, failed, the Corinthians should not be so puffed up with spiritual pride as to become blind to the danger of meeting the same fate.

Ignorant. The members of the church at Corinth were doubtless at least partially acquainted with the story of the experiences of the ancient Israelites during their exodus from Egypt, but Paul wanted them to remember these things and allow the example of the Israelites to influence their conduct.

Fathers. The church at Corinth was composed of both converted idolaters and Christian Jews. Therefore this reference to the “fathers,” which obviously points to the Israelites under Moses, shows that the Christian church is the continuation of the people of God and has the right to claim spiritual descent from the line of true worshipers back through the centuries of Israel’s history (see Rom. 2:28, 29; Gal. 3:28, 29).

Cloud. This refers to the visible presence of God with His people in their wanderings from Egypt to Canaan. By day a cloud preceded the host of Israel as they marched, and at night it became to them a pillar of fire (see on Ex. 13:21).

Sea. A reference to the crossing of the Red Sea by the children of Israel over a path miraculously prepared for them by the Lord (see Ex. 14:21, 22). This was a further proof of divine protection and favor. Paul reminded the Corinthian believers of all these special provisions made for ancient Israel by the Lord, and showed that the children of Israel had as many apparent securities against apostasy as those on which the church in Corinth relied so much.