Strong’s Greek 1791 appears twice, both in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 6:5; 1 Corinthians 15:34). In each instance Paul expresses pastoral grief that believers who should manifest spiritual discernment and moral sobriety have instead tolerated behavior unfitting for the people of God. The term highlights not merely an emotion but a moral verdict—exposure of conduct contrary to God’s character that ought to produce repentance.

Contextual Analysis in 1 Corinthians 6

The Corinthian congregation was airing internal disputes before secular courts. Paul responds, “I say this to your shame. Is there really no one among you wise enough to arbitrate between his brothers?” (1 Corinthians 6:5). Here the word functions as an apostolic rebuke. The gospel had granted the church access to “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16), yet immature believers were forfeiting that wisdom. The shame Paul points to is covenantal: it dishonors the body of Christ and contradicts the unity secured by the cross. Within the broader argument (1 Corinthians 6:1-8), the term underscores the ethical priority of the church’s internal accountability over external litigation.

Contextual Analysis in 1 Corinthians 15

Later, confronting doctrinal laxity regarding the resurrection, Paul urges, “Sober up as you ought, and stop sinning; for some of you are ignorant of God. I say this to your shame.” (1 Corinthians 15:34). Here the shame arises from theological negligence. Denial or confusion about bodily resurrection betrays ignorance of God’s redemptive plan. The term functions prophetically, calling the community back to orthodoxy and personal holiness. In the flow of the chapter, shame becomes a corrective aimed at restoring confidence in the risen Christ and hope for bodily renewal (1 Corinthians 15:20-22, 54-57).

Theological Significance

1. Divine Honor vs. Human Disgrace: The occurrences reveal a biblical pattern—God’s people experience shame when their conduct obscures His glory (cf. Romans 2:23-24).
2. Redemptive Correction: Scriptural shame is never an end in itself; it is remedial, intended to lead to repentance, reconciliation, and renewed obedience (2 Corinthians 7:9-10).
3. Eschatological Perspective: In 1 Corinthians 15, shame is tied to eternal realities. Right belief about resurrection safeguards against futile living and guards the church’s witness before a watching world.

Implications for Christian Ministry and Discipline

• Church Leadership: Elders and mature believers must cultivate wisdom to resolve conflicts internally, reflecting the reconciled nature of Christ’s body.
• Doctrinal Vigilance: Teaching ministries should guard resurrection hope, ensuring that faith and practice remain anchored in apostolic truth.
• Pastoral Admonition: Following Paul’s example, loving confrontation—when necessary—activates healthy shame that awakens believers to spiritual danger while extending grace.

Historical Application in Church Practice

Early church manuals (e.g., Didache, Apostolic Constitutions) echo Paul’s insistence that disputes be handled within the Christian community. Patristic writers such as Chrysostom cited 1 Corinthians 6:5 to warn against public scandal, viewing shame as a safeguard for the church’s testimony. Similarly, orthodox creeds rooted in 1 Corinthians 15 fortified congregations against heretical denials of bodily resurrection.

Personal and Corporate Application

Believers today face cultural pressures that normalize litigation and doctrinal compromise. Paul’s use of 1791 calls each disciple to examine whether attitudes and actions magnify Christ or expose the church to rightful reproach. Prayerful reflection on 1 Corinthians 6-15 encourages:
• Pursuit of Spirit-given wisdom for peacemaking.
• Confidence in bodily resurrection that energizes holy living.
• Readiness to receive correction as a means of grace leading to restored joy.

Related Biblical Concepts and Cross References

• Godly Rebuke: Proverbs 27:5-6; Galatians 2:11-14
• Corporate Holiness: Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 Peter 2:9-12
• The Role of Shame in Repentance: Jeremiah 6:15; Ezra 9:6; Revelation 3:18