John Calvin Commentary 1 Corinthians 10:19

"What say I then? that a thing sacrificed to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything?" — 1 Corinthians 10:19 (ASV)

What do I say then? At first glance, it might seem as if the Apostle either argued inconclusively or ascribed to idols something of existence and power. Now, one might readily object— “What comparison is there between the living God and idols? God connects us with Himself by the sacraments.

Granted. How is it that idols, which are nothing (1 Corinthians 8:4), have so much power as to do likewise? Do you think that idols are anything, or can do anything?” He answers that he does not look to the idols themselves, but rather considers the intention of those who sacrifice to idols. For that was the source of the pollution he had indirectly pointed out.

Therefore, he confesses that an idol is nothing. He also confesses that it is a mere delusion when the Gentiles undertake to perform solemn rites of dedication, and that the creatures of God are not polluted by such follies. But since their purpose is superstitious and condemnable, and the act itself is base, he infers that all who associate with them are involved in pollution.