In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul touches on a topic that has captivated Christians and fragmented churches for centuries. What is the relationship between our faith and good works? If I am saved by faith alone, then what are my limits? Paul puts it this way [note the quotes]: "Everything is permissible for me"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"--but I will not be mastered by anything." And then he injects an extreme example: "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never!"

There is a certain order, a certain logic, a certain progression to life that just makes sense. If I work hard, then I will get a raise. If I study hard, then I will get a good grade. If I eat my …