Scholars are divided on whether Paul's term "vessel" refers to one's own body or one's wife, as both were plausible meanings at the time. If "body," the command is for all believers to maintain physical purity. If "wife," it instructs on acquiring and living with a spouse honorably. Commentators note that regardless of the specific meaning, the core message is a call to sexual purity and self-control, in stark contrast to the surrounding culture.