Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 10:6-14

"Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us make trial of the Lord, as some of them made trial, and perished by the serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them murmured, and perished by the destroyer. Now these things happened unto them by way of example; and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it. Wherefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." — 1 Corinthians 10:6-14 (ASV)

Carnal desires gain strength by indulgence; therefore, they should be checked when they first arise. Let us fear the sins of Israel if we want to avoid their plagues. And it is only right to fear that those who tempt Christ will be left by Him in the power of the old serpent. Murmuring against God's arrangements and commands greatly provokes Him.

Nothing in Scripture is written in vain, and it is our wisdom and duty to learn from it. Others have fallen, and we may also. The Christian's security against sin is distrust of himself. God has not promised to keep us from falling if we do not watch ourselves.

To this word of caution, a word of comfort is added. Others have similar burdens and similar temptations: what they endure and overcome, we may also. God is wise as well as faithful and will proportion our burdens to our strength. He knows what we can bear.

He will make a way to escape; He will deliver us either from the trial itself or at least from the harm it can cause. We have full encouragement to flee from sin and to be faithful to God. We cannot fall through temptation if we hold fast to Him. Whether the world smiles or frowns, it is an enemy; but believers will be strengthened to overcome it, with all its terrors and enticements.

The fear of the Lord, put into their hearts, will be the great means of safety.