As Paul challenges the Corinthians in this text, we need to understand their failure to grasp the seriousness of their situation. They were arguing for the right to continue in some of their pre-Christian practices. What Paul wants them to understand is that being followers of Jesus has implications for every aspect of our lives, making something completely incompatible with our new life in Christ. It's not about legalistic rule keeping but rather about living in light of our union with Jesus, our redeemer.