I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.

1 Corinthians 7

I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord. 1 Corinthians 7:35

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:25-40. The main idea*: "[m]arried couples and singles should aim to live in ways pleasing to God and work for his kingdom, yet singles have a special opportunity to serve God and avoid many earthly difficulties." The introduction* from the commentary emphasizes that regardless of how contemporary church culture may make it awkward for single people by encouraging marriage, "[t]he God who gave us the gift of marriage also gives us the gift of singleness. Singleness is not a lackluster position in God’s kingdom. No one is less spiritual for remaining single. Indeed, God blesses the single state for the Christian in several ways."  The commentary* unpacks the text with the following four divisions:

1. The Spiritual Single Can Expect Less Distress (7:25-28): Paul shares how while there is no law or command for single people yet he offers guidance he believes is trustworthy. The commentary offers: "[l]ife is filled with difficulties and troubles. Sometimes, as it was for the Corinthians, life is extreme and intense. So remaining unmarried is a good thing and lessens one’s obligations, pressures, and responsibilities."
   
2. The Spiritual Single Can Encounter Fewer Distractions (7:29-31): The verses urge believers to focus on things eternal and as such we are to keep our priorities on God.  Marriage, work, and worldly distractions abound and we should avoid getting too entangled in these distractions - we must be prepared for Christ and not forget that this world is passing away. We are referred to Colossians 3:1-2. 
3. The Spiritual Single Can Enjoy Greater Devotion (7:32-35): Paul encourages singles to enjoy the freedom they have to focus on an undivided attention to God.
   
4. The Spiritual Single Can Exercise a Better Decision (7:36-40): Fewer obligations and responsibilities for the single person offers singles more clarity of mind.  At the same time, those who opt to marry are not sinful.
   

The commentary's* conclusion provides the following Biblical examples of singles who devoted their lives to God:

• The greatest person who ever lived was single: the God-Man, Jesus Christ. 
• The greatest mere human who ever lived was single: John the Baptist. 
• The greatest missionary and theologian who ever lived was single: the apostle Paul. 
• The greatest statesman who ever lived was single: Daniel. 
• The greatest prophets of Israel who ever lived were single: Elijah and Elisha.
  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - I am blessed with marriage and a God who equips me to serve within my marriage and family.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  My sin is great and it continues.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouse to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.

1 Corinthians 7

I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord. 1 Corinthians 7:35

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:25-40. 

• v25: Paul states that based on his extensive knowledge of Old Testament moral law - unlike for marriage - he is not aware of anything in the law that does not specifically provide any command or instruction for virgins/unmarried (per ESV footnote, Greek text translates to virgins vs translation to English word betrothed).  However, he does proceed to offer his guidance and shares that he is trustworthy.
• v26-27: building on text from yesterday v17-24 about anxiety, he writes how he does not want virgins/unmarried to be worried about finding a spouse and getting married - God is sovereign over the details of our lives and He has a plan for each of us - right where we are in our present circumstances.
• v28: Paul then cautions those virgins/unmarried that do marry to avoid being concerned about changing their circumstances - this is not sinful. Yet at the same time, don't assume that marriage will be a trouble/anxiety free endeavor - this a mythical/idyllic portrait; on the contrary temptations and challenges abound for all including married couples.
•  v29-31: Paul pivots to how all believers, regardless of the their circumstances (married, widowed, virgins, bondservants, circumcised, etc.) should not be anxious of their circumstances but focus on the reality that our earthly circumstances are temporary and that "the present form of this world is passing away".  Focus on things eternal and preparing for the Lord's return.
• v32-35: Paul reiterates that we should be free from anxiety - and too intense a focus on marriage by virgins and widowers will serve as a distraction from devotion to the Lord.
• v36: Further unpacking his guidance for virgins/unmarried and widowers, Paul shares how sexual temptations might be overwhelming and in this case, marriage might help.
• v37-38: In contrast to those who do face strong temptations, Paul describes those whose temptations are under control based on perhaps a mature faith and trust in God. These people are in a better position to focus their attention on the Lord vs pleasing a spouse which again may be distraction for devotion to the Lord.
• v39-40: Paul concludes by explicitly including widowers in his guidance - don't be anxious about remarriage as God will use your circumstances.  But at the same time, it is not a sin if you do remarry.     

Comment and discuss this post.

 

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves and who is full of grace and compassion for me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of all the blessings You pour out for me - every day.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me and help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.

1 Corinthians 7

So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God. 1 Corinthians 7:24

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:17-24. The main idea from the commentary*: "[o]bedience to God matters more than one’s social condition." The introduction emphasizes how we (believers) are not to feel anxious about our social status or condition as God only cares where You love Him and are obedient to Him.  It* states: "Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7 that we are not to worry whether we are married, single, divorced, or widowed. We should not concern ourselves about ethnic or social distinctions and status. Rather, each should find contentment in his or her identity in Christ and station in life, whatever it is. After all, it is our Lord who put us where we are."  The commentary then unpacks the text in three divisions:

1. Be Content in Your Assignment from the Lord (7:17): Paul moves from discussing sex, marriage, singleness and other sin - all of which cause anxiety - to more basic teaching on how God uses us regardless of our social standing or circumstances - He knows where we are and meets us there to take the gifts He has given us and use them for His glory.  We should rest and have peace about this.  Paul emphasizes that the text for today is not just for Corinth but for all churches (v17).
   
2. Be Content in Your Conditions in the Lord (7:18-22): Paul then illustrates is point in v17 by looking at two of the more prominent distinctions in life at the time he wrote this letter to the church in Corinth: (1) circumcised or not (religious status), (2) bondservant or not (economic status). These distinctions are irrelevant - only obedience to God matters (v19).
   
3. Be Content in Your Relationship with the Lord (7:23-24): Here the commentary* encourages those who are anxious of how others may feel about your social or economic standing to find comfort and confidence in Christ - looking more closely at v23 where we should not be enslaved to others' opinions: "One’s social status according to human standards now means nothing! As a new creation in Christ, then, don’t be enslaved to shame or pride. Don’t be enslaved to the opinions of others because they don’t matter. Christ is Lord, and he says we belong to him. That is what counts! Find your identity, value, and worth in Jesus." We are referred to Philippians 4:11-13.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You give me peace in a world full of anxiety!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  I am undeserving of such love and blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

[I]f you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

1 Corinthians 7

[I]f you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:17-24.  Here Paul addresses the church in Corinth for inaccurate views of God's commands.  In v18-19, he specifically calls out those who require circumcision for believers.  He then - in v21-22 - calls out those who have preconditions for those believers who might be bondservants.  It is irrelevant whether one is circumcised or not and similarly whether someone is a bondservant or not - all can be saved (including criminals such as those who at the last moment of their life confess, repent, and accept Him) by simply confessing/repenting from sins, and accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for - giving me salvation!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such a blessing and gift.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.

1 Corinthians 7

To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:1-16. The main idea provided by the commentary*: "[s]ingles and married couples must follow God’s design and pursue faithfulness according to their gift.  The introduction to the commentary* describes how Paul admonishes the church in Corinth and how they were making a "mess" with some pursuing sexual immorality and others following a belief that God seeks that all people to abstain from sex (ascetics).  Both wrong and not according to God's design.  Paul addresses these concerns head-on as the commentary* shares that this chapter "is one of, if not the most, helpful chapters in the Bible on marriage. Its instructions are as relevant in the twenty-first century as they were in the first."  The following divisions* unpack the text:

1. God Has Helpful Principles for Those Who Are Married (7:1-5): God created marriage in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2) but Adam and Eve fell prey to sin and since then the institution of marriage has been plagued by sin.  Paul rebuts the ascetics and at the same time emphasizes God's design for sex to be within marriage.  Paul then describe the marriage relationship as a partnership where both husband and wife serve one another. 
   
2. God Gifts All of Us according to His will (7:7-9): Paul shares how some are gifted with marriage and some with singleness (including the latter for himself). 
   
3. God’s Ideal Is for Marriage to Last Until Death Parts (7:10-16): Paul refers to Jesus' own words from Matthew 5:31-32, 19:3-12, Mark 10:1-12, and Luke 16:18 to emphasize* several key points: (a) God desires for marriage to be permanent. God allows for separation in a troubled marriage; (b) God always desires for reconciliation to take place, if at all possible, in troubled marriages; (c) divorce and remarriage among believers, except for sexual unfaithfulness (see Matt 5:32; 19:9), are wrong and sinful. and, even when there is sexual unfaithfulness in a believing marriage, God’s desire is for reconciliation and restoration. Paul then moves to discuss how God seeks "mixed" marriages (one believes, other does not) to remain married despite the potential for conflict and disagreement stemming from differences in faith.  The commentary* also explains how Paul's text here on v14 where unbelieving spouses and children are "made holy" is not to be interpreted as being saved. Instead the believer's influence on the unbelieving spouse and children is seen as a "holy" influence. 

The commentary concludes by referring us to Paul Tripp's article 10 Things You Should Know about Marriage.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion - providing me with Your Word as means to know You and Your design for me and for marriage.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.

1 Corinthians 7

For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. 1 Corinthians 7:4

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:1-16.  Here, Paul provides commands for both the married and unmarried.  For the married, Paul shares how the conjugal rights of both the husband and the wife belong to their spouse and neither is to deprive the other - with exception to "limited" time periods when they focus on prayer.  Paul knows that that sexual temptations are common sin and he is aware of how Satan draws people into sexual sin such as extramarital affairs (v1-5).  V4 sticks out for how husband and wife are to serve one another and to put each other's interests above their own. Paul then pivots to his own circumstances - being unmarried - and recognizes that not all are gifted by God with marriage (v6-7).  As such, he shares how the single people and widowers should also protect themselves from sexual temptation (v8-9). In v10-17, Paul shares commands regarding separation and divorce (v10-11), including marriages where either the husband or the wife is an unbeliever.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and You blessed me with gift of marriage - thank You Jesus!  Thank You for the blessing of a wonderful and Godly wife - Lisa.  I am not deserving of such a gift.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.    

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

 1 Corinthians 6

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. The main idea for this text provided by the commentary*: "God purchased our bodies by the resurrection of Christ and united us with him so that we would be his temple and glorify him."  The commentary's* introduction for the text shares that "God is not indifferent to what we do with our bodies. They matter to him, and they matter a lot." It refers to 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 where it describes how the church in Corinth "reasoned...[that] the body and food and drink and sex are going to be destroyed in the end. There will only be free spirits. So, the body does not matter."  Paul tackles and refutes this view in today's text.  The commentary* unpacks the text via five divisions:

1. God Has Principles for My Body (6:12-13): Paul admonishes the Corinthians' laissez-faire view of the gospel where "all things are lawful."  He challenges them by rhetorically asking them whether all things are "helpful" in building up the church and supporting its mission, and whether it is possible you idolize something you do over God.  He reminds them that we were made for a purpose - of course that purpose is to glorify God. 
   
2. God Has Plans for My Body (6:13-14): We are referred to Romans 12:1 where we are commanded to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to the Lord - for His glory. Paul points us forward where believers' bodies will rise with Jesus in glorification when He returns.  The commentary then states that "[w]here we are headed in the future should impact how we live today. What God will do with my body in the future should affect what I do with it today."   
   
3. God Has Protection for My Body (6:15-18): Quoting Shreiner, the commentary shares that: "[t]he relationship between believers and Christ is remarkably intimate such that believers represent Christ in what they do with their bodies." It also quotes (slightly modified) Rick Warren's "10 Commandments to Help Church Staff Maintain Moral Integrity."
   
4. God Has Proprietorship of My Body (6:19): The commentary* reminds us that believers' bodies are "important and valuable" and "at conversion [God] makes [them] his home, his temple, his holy place."  This is of course an "honor", "privilege", and "gift".
   
5. God Has Paid for My Body (6:20): Paul concludes the text by emphasizing how believers' were bought and redeemed for a great price - such that we can glorify Him with out bodies.  See also 1 Corinthians 10:31. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves and who is full of grace and compassion for me - You paid a great price for me.  Thank You.  Yet of course I am undeserving - my sin was and continues to be great.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.

 1 Corinthians 6

Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. 1 Corinthians 6:18

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 6:12-20.  Here the focus of the text is sexual immorality - partially defined in v9 as homosexuality, but also to include sex outside marriage based on text found throughout scripture.  Reinforcing v9, Paul is explicit in today's text in how sexual immorality is not God's intent.  Although He created sex, He has intended it for the enjoyment of man and woman inside the union of marriage.  He reminds the church in Corinth how their bodies belong to Christ and are intended for His glory not for our own gratification.  By extension, pursuit of sexual immorality is described by Paul as "a sin against [our] own bod[ies]."

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the institution of marriage and for the blessing of Lisa my wife of 25 years!  I am not deserving of such a blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

 1 Corinthians 6

But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:11

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 6:1-11. The main idea provided by the commentary*: "Christians should avoid greed and selfish disputes that defame the church because Jesus has radically saved and changed them." The introduction makes it clear that the church is not the appropriate place to settle and resolve criminal matters - this is noted as "dangerous."  Secular bodies - the government, police, etc. play a role here.  Paul, instead is focused on civil matters between brothers and sisters in Christ and how we should be careful not to put disagreements and disputes on public display as this "contradicts" the message of the gospel. The commentary* unpacks these points by providing three divisions for the text:

1. Suing a Fellow Believer Is Inconsistent with Our Future Responsibilities (6:1-3): We are referred to John 13:34-35 where Jesus commands believers to love one another as He loves them.  Jesus then states his motive - "[b]y this all people will know that you are my disciples[.]" Unfortunately, the church in Corinth failed to heed this command. The commentary* states that because of believers union with Christ, when Jesus returns and brings judgement to the world - we are participating in this effort because of our union with Christ. We are referred to Matthew 19:28, Luke 22:29-30, and Revelation 20:4. The commentary* then points to v3 where Paul writes how believers will participate in judgement of angels and the commentary shares: "[i]f you will someday judge these extraordinary creatures, you certainly should be able to handle the mundane matters of this life."  
2. Suing a Fellow Believer Is Inconsistent with How the Church Should Work (6:4-8): The commentary* quotes John Piper: "[p]peacemakers ought to go to peace with each other."  Paul admonishes the church in Corinth, using "biting" sarcasm, for going outside the church for something that should be resolved inside the church.  The commentary* emphasizes how the church's "witness to unbelievers must not be compromised."  
   
3. Suing a Fellow Believer Is Inconsistent with New Life in Christ (6:9-11): Here, Paul provides both a warning and an encouragement. The warning is in v9-10 to those in the church in Corinth practicing the many sins listed in these verses - eternal condemnation awaits those who live such lives. The encouragement is in v11 where Paul reminds those in the church in Corinth that God called them out of a life of sin and through election made them a new creation "in Christ."
   

The commentary* concludes with a referral to Ken Sande's "20 Ways to Prevent and Resolve Conflict in the Church." 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who provides an incredible church for me - what a blessing!  I am not deserving of such a blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

To have lawsuits at all with one another is already a defeat for you.

 1 Corinthians 6

To have lawsuits at all with one another is already a defeat for you. 1 Corinthians 6:7

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 6:1-11.  Here, Paul builds on words shared already in previous chapters of 1 Corinthians where he is admonishing the church in Corinth for its various sins, include pride, arrogance, and worship of men vs God.  The past three days I have posted about church discipline and how it is important to confront sin within the church.  Similarly, conflict and disagreement in the church must be addressed, and Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 3 how even leaders within the church submit to God as servants to Him who is working through the servants and "doing the growth." Today, Paul addresses how conflict should not result in believers taking each other to court via lawsuits, particularly in light of how it is "the world" that will preside over the lawsuit as judge. Paul refers to such efforts as a "defeat."  Church unity is critical as we must all be singularly focused on the broad mission God gives us - to love him, to love others and to bring the Good News to the world to save as many possible.  When we fight each other we fail in our mission.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - helping me and my brothers and sisters in Christ stay on mission, and when I fail in this mission (and I do) You are so gracious and patient with me...thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such grace and compassion...my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

 1 Corinthians 5

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1-2

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 5:6-13. Building on commentary for 5:1-6, the commentary* for the text today provides three (3) divisions:

1. Church Discipline Is Grounded in the Redemptive Work of Christ (5:7-8): We are new creations, called out of a life of sin to be holy. Paul's reference to the Passover festival is used to recall how Israel broke free from its bondage in Egypt and Jews celebrate this freedom. Believers are similarly called to celebrate - this time the work Christ on the cross and what it does for those who believe.  Church discipline must be based in an effort to demonstrate lives that are new and transformed - bearing fruit. 
   
2. Church Discipline Must Be Exercised in the Community of Faith, Not the World (5:9-11): Here, Paul shares how church discipline is focused inward - on those inside the church, not on those outside the church. He calls out specific sins of sexual immorality, greed, swindling, idolatry, slanderers, and drunkenness. The challenge is to be "in the world" to seek and save the lost but not be "of the world" where the sinful influences lead us astray. Be on the watch for brothers and sisters within the church that have been led astray. 
3. God Judges Those on the Outside While We Judge Those on the Inside (5:12-13): Paul emphasizes that God alone judges those outside the church so the church should avoid this focus and instead look inward and be on guard for the little bit of leaven that "leavens the whole lump" (v6). We are referred to Galatians 6:1-2 for how we can approach a brother or sister in Christ with "a spirit of gentleness."  The commentary* wraps for the text by sharing how it is not harsh to confront sin in the church: "[o]verlooking sin is not loving; it is sinful. Overlooking sin is not gracious; it is cowardice. Overlooking sin is not merciful; it is dangerous. Overlooking sin is not kind; it is hateful."

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - You provide brothers and sisters in Christ who help confront my sin and encourage me in my journey with You.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.

1 Corinthians 5

But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. 1 Corinthians 5:11

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 5:1-6.  The main idea provided by the commentary*: "Christians must lovingly confront sin through church discipline to preserve the church’s holiness and to rescue the sinner’s soul." The introduction* sets the stage for this main point by sharing how church discipline is necessary for the health of the church but at the same time "no aspect of church life in our day is more neglected than this one. And it is a dangerous neglect."  The commentary* then outline four divisions for the text:

1. Neglecting Church Discipline Invites the Ridicule of the World (5:1): Here Paul warns against the sexually immoral sin of incest - condemned not just here by Paul but also in the Old Testament (Leviticus 18:8, Deuteronomy 22:30, 27:20). Even Roman culture refused to tolerate such sin and even mocked churches such as Corinth that tolerated such sin. The parallels to contemporary times are clear as the commentary* describes how churches appear open-minded and tolerant for "a season" but are ultimately "lampooned and scorned" as the gospel loses its power and the church is ignored altogether.  The commentary* warns us that we should not appear like the world because if so, people will not see a need for something they can get from the world (foolishly believing).     
   
2. Pride Instead of Sorrow Leads Us to Ignore Church Discipline (5:2): Paul warns the church in Corinth over its pride and admonishes it to instead be mournful over sin (see also Ezra 9).
   
3. Church Discipline Must Be Exercised Under the Lordship of Jesus Christ for the Good of the Whole Body (5:3-5): The commentary* unpacks the steps that are to be taken for excommunication: (a) assemble "in the name of the Lord Jesus, (b) remove and deliver to Satan the offender, (c) seek God's providence over Satan to use Satan as a purifying source in hope to restore the offender to the body of Christ following true repentance.  The commentary describes this as: "Jesus is Satan’s ruler. And he uses Satan, our archenemy, to save and sanctify his people. He brought Job to penitence and prosperity. He brought Paul to the point where he could exult in tribulation and make the power of Christ manifest. And Paul hopes that the result of handing over this man to Satan will be the salvation of his spirit at the day of Christ."
   
4. The Absence of Church Discipline Will Lead to the Church Being Infected with Sin (5:6): Paul warns about the broader impact of sin spreading from one in the body to others.  
   

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has provided others that model Christ, sharpen me, and help me avoid sinful influences - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus.  Help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa from her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened.

1 Corinthians 5

Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. 1 Corinthians 5:7

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 5.  Here Paul uses hard-hitting language to the church in Corinth, admonishing them for allowing sexual immorality (v1) and other sins (boasting - v6; greed, idolatry, reviler, drunkard, swindler - v11) to remain in the body of Christ.  He urges them to be removed (v2, 13). Paul uses the analogy of baking with yeast (v6-8) to urge them to remember that they are a new creation in Christ, so they should pursue sanctification from Christ, as He gives freedom from the slavery of sin and removes impurities as they grow closer to Him and become more like Him.  Paul concludes the text by sharing that the church in Corinth is to avoid associating with those who sin as described in the text.  While Christ did come to seek and save the lost, and pursued fellowship with sinners, we must acknowledge the danger of sinful influences in the body of Christ. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.

1 Corinthians 4

For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me. 1 Corinthians 4:15-16

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:14-21. The commentary's* main point for this text: "[t]he church needs spiritual fathers to live exemplary lives and provide gentle, firm correction to help others mature in Christ."  The introduction* shares the blessing of fatherly wisdom - referring to Proverbs 1:8, 2:1-5, 3:1-2, 4:1-2, 6:20-22, 23:22) and how Paul offers this to the church in Corinth.  It* also shares how Paul founded this church and he serves as an "authoritative figure" for the church, just as an earthly father does for his children.  Divisions for the text include*:

1. Spiritual Fathers Have a Unique Relationship with Their Children (4:14-15): Paul only wants what is best for the church in Corinth and right now they need correction to ensure they can stay on the right path.  Paul acknowledges how the church in Corinth has many advisors, including Apollos and Cephas (Peter), but Paul's unique relationship to the church (as founder and primary nurturer of the church) emphasizes one of a fatherly figure and the love that flows from such a relationship.  Paul seeks to live a live worthy of imitation just as son follows in the footsteps of a father.   
2. Spiritual Fathers Provide an Example to Follow (4:16-17): We are referred to 3 John 1:11 where John also writes about imitating Godly behavior seen in others.  Additional scriptural examples include Ephesians 5:1, Philippians 2:5, 1 Peter 2:21, 5:2-3. We are urged to follow others to the extent that they follow Christ and of course remember that our primary model is Christ and not man. 
3. Spiritual Fathers Confront Us When We Sin (4:18-19): Paul emphasizes how children need correction and similarly those less mature in their faith - as was the case with Corinth - need correction.  This correction include confronting sinful attitudes, but also sinful actions.   
   
4. Spiritual Fathers Correct Us as Needed (4:20-21): Paul closes the text by providing spiritual correction and discipline and issuing a challenge for the church in Corinth - a harsh rebuke when he sees them again and nothing has changed or warm embraces and a more encouraging visit that highlights positive change in how Corinth has repented of its sin.
   

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for placing spiritual fathers and mentors in my life that serve to encourage, rebuke, correct, and point me back to Jesus! I am not deserving of how You do this for me...my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart soul and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children.

1 Corinthians 4

I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. 1 Corinthians 4:14

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:14-21. These verses emphasize Paul's endearing love for the church in Corinth - despite all of the challenges as described so far in 1 Corinthians, Paul writes in v1 how he admonishes them not to bring them shame but he does so out of love. See also Proverbs 3:11-12. In v14, Paul refers to the church in Corinth as his children, and he refers to himself as their father in v15.  In v16, he "urges" the church to imitate him as one who lives humbly to bring glory not to self but to Christ.  He sends Timothy to them to encourage and support them on their journey - and similarly he refers to Timothy as his "beloved and faithful child in the Lord" (v17). Paul then concludes the text for today by sharing that he will visit Corinth soon (v19) and that he will expose those who boast in themselves in their power - only to find that they are fools and that wisdom and power comes from Christ alone. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and love for me - amazing grace.  Thank You Jesus...I am not deserving of such blessing and grace.  My sin is great and it persists.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things.

1 Corinthians 4

We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things. 1 Corinthians 4:13

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:6-13. As a starting point, the commentary* provides as it main idea for the text: "[b]ecause Christians have received every good thing from God, they should avoid superiority, expect opposition, and live humbly."  It* then, in the introduction, further outlines Paul's intent for the text: "[t]he Corinthians had both a pride and an unbelief problem. They were taking pride in particular spiritual leaders and were arrogant in terms of who they thought they were and what they had achieved. Paul knew how deadly these twin sins can be in the body of Christ, the local church. So he confronts them."

The commentary* then outlines and provides details for the following divisions:

1. Be Careful about Being Prideful about Whom You Follow (4:6-7): Paul first warns the church of Corinth, and by extension all believers, about misunderstanding the "nature" of the gospel, the "role of the Christian minister," and the "attitude of the Christian minister." He starts by sharing how the church leaders live life humbly so that they serve as a model for the church - he builds on text going back to 1 Corinthians 1:10 with analogies referring to the leaders as servants, co-workers, and managers/craftsmen sent and gifted by God. The leaders are mere vessels to advance God's kingdom and unworthy of worship - it is Jesus alone worthy of our worship.  The commentary* writes about the "cult of personality," arrogance/pride, etc. that consumed the church in Corinth: "[Paul] does not want the church to be arrogant, prideful, or puffed up, choosing favorites like worldly political parties do. We need to hear the same warning. Don’t be seduced by the ways of the world when it comes to your leaders."  Additionally, the message on boasting is reinforced as Paul reminds us that all we have is by grace not through our own efforts as "[e]very good gift and every perfect gift is from above" (James 1:17). As a result we are no better than anyone else.
   
2. Be Careful about Being Arrogant about Who You Are (4:8-13): Paul then moves, using sarcasm and self-effacing language about himself and the other church leaders, to admonish the church about their arrogance and focus on "cult of personality."  He provides a contrasting portrait of the church leaders (spectacle of shame, fools, weak, dishonored, hungry/thirsty, poorly clothed/homeless, roughly treated, mere manual laborers, reviled, persecuted, slandered, scum, and garbage) vs the church body in Corinth and how they felt about themselves (arrogant and prideful). We are referred to Lamentations 3:45 as scriptural support for Paul's reference to the faithful as scum and garbage. Focus on Christ for Your identity - not the world!

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus - You are an awesome God who humbled himself so that I could have forgiveness of sins and eternal life - simply incredible.  Thank You Jesus!  I am OF COURSE not deserving.  My sin persists...daily.  Please forgive me for my sins of both commission and omission.  Help me turn from such sin, overcome it and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! Without us you have become kings! And would that you did reign, so that we might share the rule with you!

1 Corinthians 4

Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! Without us you have become kings! And would that you did reign, so that we might share the rule with you! 1 Corinthians 4:8

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:6-13. Here, Paul turns back to warning the church in Corinth about boasting in anything but Jesus - including self and ministry leaders (Paul, Cephas/Peter, and Apollos).  Paul first starts by sharing how all of the ministry leaders live humbly and focus on Jesus as a model so that those shepherded by these leaders may "learn" from them and also live humbly without boasting (v6).  He then points out how there is no basis for boasting anyway because all gifts/skills/blessings one may have are not through one's own efforts and instead "received" as a gift from God alone (v7).  Continuing, Paul describes how through Christ the church in Corinth is rich and having all things - to the point of lavish riches one might expect with royalty...indeed there is so much "received" that the ministry leaders "share" with the church members (v8).  Coming back to the ministry leaders, Paul then describes how the apostles are not worthy of worship (cult of personality - see posts from past several days) but are "last of all," "sentenced to death," "spectacles," "fools," "weak," "in disrepute," hungry and thirsty, "poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless," "reviled," "persecuted," "slandered," "like the scum of the world," and "the refuse of all things." Paul's colorful self-effacing language in v9-13 is used to illustrate how ministry leaders are servants and lowly existing to glorify God and not for self-glorification.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who has lavishly poured out blessings and riches of abundance, including mercies that are new EVERY morning!  Thank You Jesus - I am undeserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?

1 Corinthians 4

There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor? James 4:12

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:1-5.  The commentary's* introduction for the text shares as it's main idea: "Ministers are servants God will hold accountable for their good and bad service when Christ returns."  The introduction further describes this main idea by warning us against what it claims is "one of the poisonous sins for Christians: judgementalism." The commentary* refers to Don Carson's The Cross and Christian Ministry, Leadership Lessons from 1 Corinthians where the author writes: "one-upmanship was tearing the church apart" as the members within the church at Corinth used the "cult of personality" to drive division. Four divisions are then described*:

1. A Minister Is a Servant of God (4:1): Paul, Apollos, and Cephas (Peter) are described as having achieved "celebrity status" and Paul seeks to address this within the church at Corinth.  V1 seeks to us back to the true role of church leaders - as servants of God, not worthy of any celebrity status or worship. 
   
2. A Minister Is a Manager of the Mysteries of God (4:1-2): The commentary* builds on the first division by moving to v1b where leaders are described as "stewards of the mysteries of God". They are to "protect and proclaim the gospel"  and all that they do be found faithful to this end. Ultimately, they are held to a higher standard than members of the church as they are positions of trust and authority.
   
3. A Minister Will Ultimately Be Judged Only by God (4:3-5): Although "cult of personality" ran rampant within the church at Corinth, Paul rebuked the church at Corinth by pointing out that judgement belongs to God alone and that he is not worried about judgement by others. This is of course a warning for all of us as God's judgement of us should be something we fear much more so than any human judgement. We are referred to James 4:12.
   
4. A Minister Will Receive His Reward from God (4:5): The commentary* for this division describes how the final verse of the text is not critical but instead encouraging as it focuses on eternal rewards for leaders vs focus on judgement.
   

The commentary concludes by providing 10 thoughts to consider regarding being judgemental: 

1. Check your motives.
2. Examine your walk with the Lord first.
3. Seek out the wisdom of God’s Word and godly counsel before acting.
4. Practice the Golden Rule.
5. Be careful not to make a snap decision or quick judgment.
6. Pray for the one who appears to be caught in sin before correcting them.
7. Remember the example of Jesus and how he helped and ministered to sinners.
8. Speak the truth, but do it in love.
9. Remember that some things are right or wrong, but some things are just different.
10. Never forget that ultimately everyone must give an account to the Lord, not to you or anyone else.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an incredible awesome God who is full of grace for me as You help me understand not only the Godly role of a church leader but also how these same commands apply to all believers, including myself.  Thank You for Your mercies and Your grace and Your sanctification.  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.  

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.

1 Corinthians 4

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:1-2

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 4:1-5.  Here, Paul builds on 1 Corinthians 3 where he is admonishing the church in Corinth for their divisions and conflict based on a "cult of personality." He, and Apollos and Cephas (Peter), are the subjects of such "cult of personality," but Paul moves on from discussing how he or any of the other church preachers/leaders should not be worshiped and put on a pedestal (instead Christ alone (the Creator) should be worshiped).  Now, building on the final verses of chapter 3 (where the leaders are fellow laborers for Christ) he continues discussing his role in the affirmative indicating that the church leaders/preachers should be regarded as "servants of Christ" and "stewards of the mysteries of God" (v1). The hope is that they are faithful stewards (v2).  Yet Paul is not worried about being judged, sharing that God alone is the judge (v4), and that when Christ returns all things unknown will be known and all will be judged according to their heart and what they have done (v5).  All of the petty conflict within Corinth is put into perspective and how it is deemed unimportant quarrels - we should all focus on Jesus and His mission, understanding that God expects this of us and ultimately we will be judged on how we did He expects of us. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and love for me - providing mercies that are new every morning and providing for all of my needs - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love grace and blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.

1 Corinthians 3

So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's. 1 Corinthians 3:21-23

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 3:18-23. The commentary* provides the following main idea for the text: "[w]orldly wisdom fuels competition in the church and causes Christians to forget they have everything in Christ." It then goes on to unpack the text via following three divisions:

1. Do Not Deceive Yourself; Know What True Wisdom Is (3:18): Paul warns the church in Corinth to be "on guard against self deception." Their lack of spiritual maturity lead them to focus not on Christ but on leaders and a "cult of personality." The commentary* writes about worldly wisdom: "The world delights in power and might. God works in weakness and suffering. The wisdom of this world mocks the cross. The wisdom of God glories in the cross. In terms of ministry, God works through servants, not superstars. He works through the nobodies, rarely the somebodies[.]" This is in direct opposition to what the world expects. 
   
2. Remember, God Sees Every Action and Knows Every Thought (3:19-20): The commentary* describes how God  peers into the hearts of all men and thwarts all thoughts and actions that are contrary to His will.  It shares how impure thoughts and motives undermine the church: "[t]he plans of the wise of the world are foolish, empty, and ineffective....God sees every action and knows every thought of every person. If we desire to be wise in the eyes of God, we must believe, live, think, and act in ways that this world sees as foolish. Run the other way from worldly fads and ideologies. They will only let you down. In the end you will have played the fool." 
   
3. Enjoy Every Blessing of God Because All Things Belong to You (3:21-23): The commentary* emphasizes "an amazing statement" in v22: "[w]hat an amazing statement of the blessings and wealth the believer has in Christ! God has made all unsinful things for our blessing, good, joy, and pleasure. For instance, God does not bless us with one teacher of the gospel but every teacher. He blesses us in life and death. He blesses us now and in the future. Everything is ours!" The commentary* then lists eight things from these verses that all believers should keep in mind: (a) Paul is ours (including the 13 letters he wrote in the Bible!).  (b) Apollos - noted as a gifted preacher, (c) Cephas (aka Peter) - upon which Christ built the church, (d) the entirety of creation, (e) life - and the abundance (not an earthly one) Christ promises, (f) death - the sting of death is overcome, (g) the present - sanctification, (h) the future - "[t]he future in Christ is not uncertain, scary, ominous, or nerve-racking. The one who holds my present also holds my future. We’ve read about the end, and we win! There is a rider who will arrive on a white horse." The commentary* for this division concludes by ensuring we understand all of these glorious realities belong to those who are in Christ.  We are referred to Matthew 3:17, John 1:1, Philippians 2:6, Colossians 1:15, and Hebrews 1:3.  
   

The commentary* wraps for the text by reinforcing how we are to avoid boasting in ourselves or relying on (in an ungodly manner) anything in the world.  "[B]oast only in Jesus."

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who gives me everything - thank You Jesus!  What an amazing promise and reality.  I am not deserving of how You provide - my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.

1 Corinthians 3

Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. 1 Corinthians 3:18

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 3:18-23. As Paul wraps this chapter, he concludes by returning to wisdom and a contrast between Godly wisdom revealed by God alone to whom He chooses, and worldly wisdom, which is described as folly.  Using similar language in 1 John 1:8 where John warns us to avoid deceiving ourselves by claiming to be without sin, Paul also warns the church in Corinth to avoid being deceived by claiming to be wise (v18).  He shares the counter-intuitive but Godly thought that we should instead strive to become fools - emptying ourselves of worldly sin and influences and allowing ourselves to be filled by the Holy Spirit that takes captive our every thought (2 Corinthians 10:5).  God sees all of our thoughts, motives, plans, etc. and He knows our heart and "catches the wise" as they pursue wicked and ungodly pursuits - ultimately the paths of the wise are proven futile.  To illustrate his point, Paul refers us to Job 5:13 and Romans 1:21-22.  The text wraps by commanding us to avoid boasting in men or worldly wisdom - because we all belong to God and He is in control.  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace for me - revealing Yourself and wisdom to me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of this and the many other blessings You pour out for me.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.

1 Corinthians 3

He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. 1 Corinthians 3:8

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 3:5-17.  The introduction of the commentary* for today's text shares the following main point: "God uses his servants to build the church and will judge the quality of each person’s work, but he is responsible for the church’s growth." It continues to describe how the text seeks to ensure all believers are properly focused on loving and serving God in preparation for Judgement Day.

The commentary* then outlines how the text includes "three pictures to describe the church of God" and how the text uses each in three divisions:

1. The Church Is God’s Field (3:5-9): Paul seeks to address the politics and conflict within the church at Corinth by explaining that neither himself, Apollos or Cephas (see also 1 Corinthians 3:22) are to be exalted as they are merely servants of Christ doing what God called them to do. The workers are not rivals but teammates working towards the same goal - glory to God.  The commentary* also explains that "how we serve matters. What we do and why we do it matter."  It makes a point to ensure we don't miss v8b and how Paul reminds us that "each will receive his wages according to his labor." Using the farming analogy, Paul then moves to share how even though God's workers - whoever they may be - plant and water the field, it is God alone that gives the growth. We are referred to John 4:34-38 where God is the Lord of the harvest. The commentary* for this division concludes with an admonishment: "[e]xalting a person to divine status is idolatry and robs God of the glory that rightly belongs only to him. Thank him for the service of his servants, but praise him for the growth in his field that only he can give." 
2. The Church Is God’s Building (3:9-15): The commentary* highlights how the text moves from a farming analogy to an architectural one where "[t]he church of the Lord Jesus is his field in which he sends his servants and coworkers to plant, water, cultivate, and reap a harvest. It is also his “building” (v9) where he sends his “skilled master builder” (v10) and other laborers and workers to build with materials of excellence that will withstand the purifying fires of revelation on “the day” of judgment (v13)[.]" We are reminded that Christ is the foundation and the members of the church are to work together to build upon that foundation.  The commentary writes: "[w]e work with good motives, methods, and goals. How we work in and for the church matters. Why we work in and for the church matters."  We cannot forget that Christ is the foundation of the church. The commentary* digs deeper into how Paul encourages Corinth to build on Christ's foundation carefully, using quality materials and methods.   It warns us against efforts that produce little value, particularly in light of how our efforts - all of us - will be judged according to our labor and the quality of our work.  The commentary* provides several key points about this judgement, including (a) this is a judgement of service, not salvation, (b) this judgement involves the quality of our work, not its quantity, (c) this judgement will evaluate both actions and motives. 
   
3. The Church Is God’s Temple (3:16-17): Paul's final division for the text extends the use of a building as a metaphor by referring to the church as God's temple. The commentary* shares four observations made by Paul about the church: (a) we (the church) are His sanctuary, (b) we have His spirit, (c) we are special, and (d) we are sacred.  The commentary* writes about how we are His sanctuary: "[w]hat an amazing statement of their identity in Christ and their status before God."  It writes about how we have His Spirit: "[t]he sovereign God of the universe now dwells in a small, insignificant people called the church." Regarding how the church is special, the commentary* writes how Paul warns the church (v17) to treat God's temple with respect and to avoid the many things that reflect poorly on the church: "[a] focus on entertainment, false conversions, preaching a watered-down gospel, spending resources on fancy programs or impressive buildings, weak preaching, acceptance of gossip and materialism, lack of prayer, loss of missions and evangelistic passion, and much more will drain a local church of its life." The warning here to not destroy the church is a grave one - we are referred to Galatians 1:8-9. Paul's words in this division conclude as described by the commentary* by emphasizing how the church is holy and set apart and this includes both privileges and responsibilities...and God will hold the church accountable for how we do.
   

 The commentary* concludes for the text today by quoting Andy Davis' book The Glory Now Revealed: What We'll Discover About God in Heaven and how it lists ten kinds of good works we should pursue:

1. Anything done for the glory of God (even simple daily tasks; 1 Cor 10:31) 
2. Humble servant-hood (Matthew 20:26-28) 
3. Sacrificial giving (2 Samuel 24:24; Luke 21:3; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7) 
4. Suffering for the kingdom (Matthew 5:11-12) 
5. Advancing the gospel (1 Thessalonians 2:19) 
6. Giving to the poor (Luke 14:12-14) 
7. Secret acts of piety—fasting and prayer (Matthew 6:6,18) 
8. Anything done to help those advancing the gospel (Matthew 10:42) 
9. Anything done to help other Christians in any way (Hebrews 6:10) 
10. An honorable life of hard work (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12)

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace for me in SO many ways - thank You for the love and grace You pour out for me.  I am undeserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.

1 Corinthians 3

Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 3:5-17.  Here, Paul continues to admonish the church in Corinth for its divisions and conflict - with a key challenge being "cult of personality" where believers are incorrectly worshiping teachers and pastors and not God Himself. Paul starts by describing Apollos and himself as servants or instruments of the Lord using the analogy of farming where they are only planting or watering and "God [gives] the growth" (v5-7).  Those who plant and water - and anyone playing a role using spiritual gifts distributed by God - is rewarded by God "according to his labor" (v8). Believers are the workers to build God's temple, some focusing on the foundation, while others build on top of the foundation (v9-10). Paul seeks for all believers to "take care how" the temple is built as we must ensure that Jesus Christ is the foundation (v11). Our relationship with Christ then comes into focus as Paul describes how all believers should strive to build a foundation with Christ as strongly as we can leaning on the Word, the Holy Spirit, etc. to do its sanctification work within us.  Paul warns us that the strength of our relationship will be tested on judgement day (v12-15) and there are some who may perish given a foundation that was never truly built on Jesus Christ (v16-17).

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and I am grateful for how You have drawn me near to build a foundation upon which I am prayerful will stand the test of Judgement Day.  I know there is more work to do but I am thankful for what You have done so far.  I am not deserving of such grace and blessing.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.

1 Corinthians 2-3

Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12

I continue my study of 1 Corinthians.  I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book.  Today my focus is a review - aided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 2:10-3:4.  The commentary* indicates the main idea of this text as "[h]ow a person thinks and lives will reveal whether he or she has the Spirit and is growing in maturity in Christ."  The introduction from the commentary* for this text opens a deep dive into the text by sharing how authors scripture often use categories of people to draw contrasts for illustrative purposes.  In the case of the text today, Paul compares natural/carnal people with spiritual people - not as a judgement but as a matter of "spiritual reality."  The commentary* lays out and describes three divisions for the text: 

1. The Natural Person Does What Comes Naturally (2:14): Here, the commentary* explains how a natural person (someone who is not a mature enough believer to see how the Holy Spirit is active in their life, "enslaved by their fallen nature") "does not accept spiritual things" nor "appreciate" them. The natural person cannot understand nor appreciate these things because by definition they need the Holy Spirit to discern them. This is not an "intellectual inability."  The commentary* summarizes the problem here as "[natural people] will never see [the Word] as beautiful, precious, and valuable. They are blind to its beauty, deaf to its melody, and insensitive to its fragrant aroma." 
   
2. The Spiritual Person Does What Comes Supernaturally (2:10-13, 15-16): Here Paul now describes spiritual people as those who "are captive to the Spirit of God who has taken up residence in them as his temple[.]"  The commentary refers us to 1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19-20 for scriptural support with this interpretation. The division provided by the commentary* is further unpacked and broken down as the spiritual person (a) is informed by the Spirit, (b) instructed by the Spirit, and (c) is given insight by the Spirit. The commentary* quotes Leon Morris who shares: "When the Spirit enters the life everything is changed and one new thing that appears is the ability to make a right judgment. This does not mean that the man has acquired greatness; it means that the Spirit of God is guiding him. He has the point of reference within himself and is thus able to make judgments about all things."  Similarly, the commentary quotes Morris regarding the inability of natural people to understand spiritual people: "the spiritual man cannot be judged by the natural man for precisely the same reason that he himself can judge all things. He has the Spirit of God within him and the natural man has not. This makes him an enigma to the natural man."  We are referred here to Isaiah 40:13.
   
3. The Carnal Person Does What Comes Unnaturally (3:1-4): The commentary* describes how these verses are often misunderstood so it provides clarification about what is meant by them and how 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 are provided to address these issues:

• Christians can be slow to mature in their faith without proper nourishment. 
• Christians can sometimes act like spiritual babies when they should act like spiritual adults. 
• Christians need to be reminded of the basics of the gospel even as they grow in their depth of understanding the gospel. The gospel is both milk and meat! 
• Nominal Christianity is inauthentic Christianity.
• Spiritual backsliding is possible, but it should not be permanent (see also 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:16-21).
  

The commentary* further unpacks the third division by describing how the church in Corinth (and us by extension can be) (a) are weak spiritually, and (b) are willful in sin.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God - I am grateful for how the Holy Spirit entered my heart and continues to sanctify me - making me more like You.  Thank You.  Yet I know I am both undeserving and there is work to do - my sin continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

*Akin, Dr. Daniel L.; Merritt, James. Exalting Jesus in 1 Corinthians (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.