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I CORINTHIANS The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date. 1:4 I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus. Paul, writing to the believers in Corinth, thanks God that
he has believers to write to. 1:5 that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, Verse four says that God has given us grace in Jesus Christ. Here Paul continues that we have been enriched both physically and spiritually through our faith in Him. He gives us the right words to say , and His Holy Spirit also convicts us if we use the wrong words. He gives us the ability to learn more about Him every day we are on earth. (DRM 6/27/04) 1:7 so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul was describing the Corinthian believers that he was writing to. God gives us gifts, so we should not be lacking; and we should be anticipating the Lord's return. Certainly I'm anxious about that! (DRM 7/8/01) Each person has been given different talents by our Maker. He wants us (me) to discover what my gifts are and to use them in some way to proclaim His love and His Kingdom to others. That really should be the mission for my entire life. At the same time, like is written in this verse, we (I) are to expect His imminent return. (DRM 6/24/07) 1:9 God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. God=Jesus knows everything. Before we were born, He knew
if we would be followers of His Son or not. We still had to decide for Jesus to
become Christians, but He knew beforehand. 1:10 Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree, and there be no divisions among you, but you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment. Since I became a born-again Christian, I have attended two churches that split while I was there, or soon after. How emotional some people get over their disagreements amazes me. Really, that's why we have so many denominations today. Jesus wants His body to be whole - together - not in constant dispute. I am looking forward to how He will judge their conflicts and bring us all together in Heaven. (DRM 6/25/07) 1:11 For I [Paul] have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by Chloe's people, that there are quarrels among you. Things haven't changed in two thousand years. People in churches disagree on various things. An easy solution is to go to another church; but a better solution is to come to some type of settlement and forgiveness. (DRM 7/9/01) 1:13 Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? This part of I Corinthians deals with the division of the
church, where some people followed the teachings of Paul or Apollos or Cephas
(Peter) or Christ. 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, that the cross of Christ should not be made void. Paul was an evangelist, not a pastor. He was concerned that people he baptized would identify themselves as being "of Paul" [verse 12], rather than of Christ, who Paul wanted people to follow. While baptism is an outward representation of an inward commitment, it is reserved for church symbolism and not the work of an evangelist. I still wonder what God desires for me. . . (DRM 6/28/04) 1:18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. So many people that I know "don't get it."
They don't understand why I go to church, why I don't want to sell things on
Sunday and why (so they think) I waste my time reading the Bible, etc. They
think it's all foolishness. If I want to talk to them about it, the subject
seems to change quickly. 1:20 Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? Things haven't changed since Paul wrote these words. Generally, the wise college graduates, the doctors and lawyers - don't know Christ personally; however, the less educated lower class seem to have the Lord in their hearts. Are the smart too smart for their own salvation? They need to become "as children." (DRM 7/10/01) Quite often the learned people — like college professors — are not believers, nor the writers, nor the debaters who feel they have found a "better way." With all of their accumulated "wisdom" they never found the Lord Jesus - nor who He is. In this respect, I'm glad that I didn't become "too smart" to be willing to hear Him call me through another "average" person. PTL! (DRM 6/29/04) 1:27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong. All of my life I have been told that I'm stupid, average and that I will never amount to anything. Lately, acquaintances just ignore me, and go on. Praise the Lord, that He cares for me and has a plan for me to do special things for Him! (DRM 7/11/01) No one wants to be called a fool, but after reading this
verse, I'm glad to be one of the foolish people that God has chosen. 1:28, 29 . . . and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, 29so that no man may boast before God. Have you noticed? It seems that the richer a person is in material goods (money), the less likely they are to be Christians. They did it "their way." But when I've talked to people asking for money on the street, they tell me that they've trusted in Jesus. While we are poorer on earth, we know that everything will be better in Heaven. (DRM 6/29/10) re: 1:29 This is the end of a four-verse
sentence, so needs to be read with the previous three verses. 2:1 And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God. I don't want to be compared to Paul, but this is also a great description of my feelings. Paul knew he was inadequate for the job ahead. Sometimes I wonder what the job is. Paul said his speech was not superior, but still he spoke, which is much better than me! He related God's Word and I just try to learn it. I need boldness! (DRM 6/30/04) 2:2 For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. In the first few verses of this chapter, Paul made it
clear that he was no scholar or had no special wisdom (v.1) that they didn't
also have. He said he was just a regular person - called by God and fearful of
speaking, as most of us also are. 2:3, 4 And I was with you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. 4And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, This section of five verses is among my favorites in the Bible. It's exactly how I feel. Paul knew that he couldn't preach based on his own wisdom. He even claimed that he was fearful when he spoke - but he leaned on the Lord and allowed the Lord Jesus to work through him. . . As I should. (DRM 7/12/01) 2:5 . . . so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God. In this paragraph (v. 1-5), Paul says that he was not a
great speaker or of wisdom, but a regular person like the rest of us. 2:6 Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away; The Holy Spirit told Paul what to write, so this verse seems to be direct from God. God speaks wisdom through His word, the Bible. Believers learn more of His nature through the reading and application of the Bible, whereas unbelievers and rulers of this age who aren't believers in Jesus do not gain wisdom from His word. (DRM 6/30/10) 2:9 but just as it is written, "THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT
SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, This quote comes from Isaiah 64 and 65. At the present time I am listening to a Christian radio program about what Heaven will be like, but no one knows all the details until they (we) arrive. That's exactly what this verse conveys. . . so long as I (we) trust in Jesus' death and resurrection for our sins (and confess them to Him) a wonderful experience awaits us in Heaven. (DRM 7/1/10) In verse 9, Paul quotes from Isaiah 64:4. At first glance, we might think that the emphasis is on our future blessings when we get to Heaven; however, the context in Isaiah has to do primarily with the blessings 2:11 For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God. I know what my thoughts are, but you don't know what I
think about everything around me (e.g. what foods I like). Only the spirit that
is within me knows all those details. 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God, This refers to the Holy Spirit - which I received on the day that I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. Apparently we can't have two spirits in us. When the Holy Spirit entered, the spirit of the world exited, however he (worldly) keeps trying to return. Praise God for His gift - the Holy Spirit. (DRM 7/13/01) 2:13 . . . which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. When we read the Bible, the Holy Spirit makes most of the
words clear to us. Before we were Christians, the whole Book didn't make sense
(I remember trying to read it then.), then it all became clear. 2:14 But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised. When I wasn't a Christian, I could sit at church and listen to the sermon and "hear nothing," as my mind was not "turned on" to spiritual things. After I accepted Christ as my Savior, He gave me new insight as to what was being said. I try to daily praise God for His gift of understanding; the Holy Spirit. (DRM 7/14/01) Unbelievers just don't "get it!" Why? They have
to learn to hear the Holy Spirit and their "intelligence" tells them
not to listen. A person must admit to needing Jesus and be willing to listen,
before the Holy Spirit will say anything! The main evidence that the Holy Spirit lives inside of me is what my thoughts are. Before that day {of my salvation} my thoughts were generally on making more money. While I do think of that occasionally, it isn't long before I start to think about how to lead more people to Christ or how my words and actions show the love of Christ that is within me. I want them to see (and hopefully someday ask) the difference between being a Christian and those who are not. (DRM 6/28/07) 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to men of flesh, as to infants in Christ. When we are born physically, we start out as babies and
need milk before solid food. The same is necessary for growth spiritually. 3:2, 3 I [Paul] gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are not yet able, 3for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men? When a person becomes a new Christian, they have to learn
all the details slowly. Paul compared this t milk and meat. There's a LOT to
learn considering how much is in the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation. 3:4 For when one says, "I am of Paul," and another, "I am of Apollos," are you not mere men? Jesus is our Saviour. We learn through the help of the
Holy Spirit. 3:5 What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. Man (e.g. Paul or Apollos) does not give a person their salvation. When your pastor or maybe evangelist told you about Jesus, they did not fill you with His Spirit. Only Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, can fill your life with love towards Him (Jesus). (DRM 9/24/12) 3:6 I (Paul) planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. Paul was emphasizing that we are NOT to worship him or Apollos or any other teacher of the gospel. Each of us has a different job in the Body to direct others toward Christ - and not to lead them to us. As I grow in the faith, God, through the Holy Spirit, causes my growth. We share knowledge - but only God causes the growth. (DRM 7/3/04) Like any literal plant or flower, we can plant and water an item in the spring, but God, the Creator, through His processes - like the sun, causes the flower to grow. Spirituality is the same thing. We can tell of Christ's love for them, but God, through the Holy Spirit, is the One who changes the heart and mind of a new believer - and causes their growth, over time, to mature followers of Christ. (DRM 6/29/07) 3:7 So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Billy Graham is an example of a person-evangelist who planted seeds of faith in people at his many Crusades. Many people came forward, but only God knows their individual hearts, and He (through the Holy Spirit) is the One who leads people to follow Himself, or they could just quit if their faith wasn't genuine. God knows each person's heart. (DRM 7/2/10) 3:8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. Some people have to plant the spiritual seeds in this world and some have to water them by discussing our Savior with the world. Only God can do the growth and make a conversion of a soul. At least I am starting to plant seeds. Soon I will have to water them. The rest is up to God. (DRM 7/15/01) 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. All Christians should be sharing the Good News of Jesus
with non-believers in some way. This is our work for the Kingdom of God. Some
will plant the seed (evangelists) and some will water it (teaching, mentoring
newer Christians). This is how the field is used as a illustration. In writing to the church in Corinth, Paul used three metaphors to describe the communal relationships of the body of Christ. A field: the church is a place of spiritual growth and cultivation. A building: the church is a meeting place of safety and security for the believer from the dangers of the world. A temple: the church, as a gathered group of believers, is a place of worship to our God. With these things in view, the importance of the exhortation of Hebrews 10:25, to continue to meet together, becomes readily apparent. (Our Daily Bread, Insight, 5/9/12) 3:10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. This is confusing if taken out of context, as in the next
verse Paul makes clear that Jesus is the One who laid the foundation and what we
do is to build upon that. 3:11 For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. The Lord wants us to build upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. I don't think He wants us to build an outlandish "building," but rather something that is totally honoring to the Creator. He gives us our form and we have to make the best of what He has given us. (DRM 7/16/01) 3:12, 13 Now if any man builds upon the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it, because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. What have I done for the Lord Jesus? When the Lord returns and re-creates the earth, will anything that I did for the Lord remain? What remains after a fire? Not possessions, not a building, but the souls of others who have trusted in the Lord; they will remain. I should invest as much time as I can in telling others (in whatever way possible) to trust in Him, as I feel the time is short. (DRM 6/30/07) [re: 3:13] Every Christian is a teacher. In one way or another, we
are showing or verbalizing Christ by our actions to the unbelieving world. We
are responsible for what we say and do - as it is all recorded and known by God. 3:14, 15 If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 15If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire. [re: 3:14] This still refers to building the foundation of Christ. Depending on if our works have an eternal effect on others, we will have a reward after we get to heaven. People who do works and don't share Christ in some way, will have done nothing of eternal benefit for others or themselves. (DRM 7/17/01) The foundation is Jesus Christ (v. 11) and what a person
builds on it determines his rewards. If the person is not a believer, the
building (body) will be burned in the lake of fire, but the soul lives forever.
3:16,17 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him, for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple. God's temple is within each of us. We should not try to harm our bodies with anything and should glorify God with how we treat our own bodies. (DRM 10/30/86) 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become foolish that he may become wise. Quite often educated people with higher degrees, think they know everything. They are unlikely to listen to the gospel as it seems illogical and foolish. We must become 'as children' to start over and understand the basics. (DRM 7/18/01) 3:19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, He is THE ONE WHO CATCHES THE WISE IN THEIR CRAFTINESS"; It's easy to use an example here: creationism vs.
evolution. The world has one theory and God has told us the truth. It seems to
me that Satan slowly takes over the minds of the educated as they attend worldly
colleges. 3:20, 21 . . . and again, "THE LORD KNOWS THE REASONINGS of the wise, THAT THEY ARE USELESS." 21So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you, [re: 3:20] As I've written before, I don't have a 4 year college degree, and generally have little affiliation with the educated in society. Other than theological degrees, it seems that a lot (but not all) of the people with higher education - reason that the Lord God does not exist. The less educated are more open to the teachings of the Lord Jesus, thus the roles on earth will be reversed - like in other things. (DRM 7/1/07) The wise probably are most of the highly educated of this
world. They usually have a natural or scientific answer to anything, so don't
want/need God. Probably they don't believe in God-sent miracles. 4:1 Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. I have quite a few non-Christian friends - when I add the
co-workers, they become the majority of the people that I communicate with in my
life. 4:4 For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted; but the one who examines me is the Lord. This would be like "unknown sin," where I sin
against the Lord but am not convicted by the Holy Spirit, thus am unaware of
what I have done. 4:5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God. When we are in private, or alone, we sometimes sin, but other times we pray and do other things that the Lord desires. Usually we think of sinning during those times, but God knows everything and will "reward" us for the things we do for Him while alone. (DRM 7/19/01) I am guilty of judging others by their actions. While the actions seem inconsistent with my Christian learning, I should leave the ultimate judgment up to the Lord God, as He knows the hearts and I can only see the outside. (DRM 7/5/04) 4:10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. As we want to love and serve Christ more and more, we will do anything to get the message to others. We must become "weak" by putting their needs before our own. We must not put ourselves higher than them, but be a servant to them. [Spiritual weakness, not physical.] (DRM 7/20/01) 4:11, 12 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; 12and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; . . . Paul and Apollos (v. 6) were servants of Christ and
traveled from place to place. This message was directed to the church in
Corinth. 4:13 . . . when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now. Paul seems to be writing for himself and the other
apostles in this paragraph (v. 9) 4:15 For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. When I think of a tutor, I think of a person about the
same age as the student and not with a professional degree. Generally tutors
know ONE subject well. 4:16 Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. If taken out of context, this could be a prideful
statement. Others should imitate us only as far as we imitate Christ. (from Our Daily Bread, 9/29/13) 4:17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. The song "Passing the Faith Along," comes to my mind with this verse. Paul passed his faith to Timothy and now was asking the Corinthian church to listen to Timothy, as he was going to other churches. No one can do everything. The Lord Jesus wants us all to use our gifts for His honor and glory. Share (or pass) the faith along. (DRM 7/3/07) 4:19, 20 But I [Paul] will come to you [Corinthians] soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall find out, not the words of those who are arrogant, but their power. 20For the Kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power. Our tongue can be a sharp weapon. It can be used to proclaim the words of the Lord, or an an attack against Him. Apparently in this case the arrogant were saying things against the Lord or Paul. Paul reminds us in verse 20 that the words are not lasting, but rather how they affect people's hearts. (DRM 7/21/01) 4:20 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. God is not meek, God is not afraid, God is strong and has
great power. Our God is not talk and no action, but He is everything good to all
people. 4:21 What do you desire? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness? In this section of Chapter 4, Paul is referring to his
teaching and believers' need for continuous learning about the Lord Jesus
(sanctification). 5:1 It is actually reported that there is immorality among you, and immorality of such a kind as does not exist even among the Gentiles, that someone has his father's wife. Here is a clear description of a sexual law that can't be broken. You can't have sex with your mother. It was worded differently in the ten commandments but was there also. Paul would have such a person delivered to Satan (verse 5). Jesus will require an accounting for this sin. (DRM 7/22/01) 5:6 Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough? I seem to recall that someone wrote that leaven is never
good in the Bible. In this verse, leaven is compared to boasting. Leaven (yeast) was a symbol of sin and corruption and was to be removed from Jewish homes to celebrate these festivals (Deut. 16:3-4). Because Jesus is the Passover Lamb who cleanses us from sin, the Corinthians were to scour their hearts and remove the leaven of sexual immorality, malice, and wickedness from their lives and their assembly ( 1 Corinthians 5:9-13). (from Our Daily Bread 1/21/12) 5:7 Clean out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, just as you are in fact unleavened. For Christ our Passover also has been sacrificed. Leaven causes something to be "puffed up." Jesus does not want us to be puffed up or proud about our relationship with Him. Unleavened bread - Matzo - is the food of Passover. Here is a symbolism of Christ's body and unleavened bread - Matzo. (DRM 7/23/01) Leaven is compared to sin here. We don't want any. Like the Matzo of Passover, Jesus was unleavened or sinless. . . which should also be my goal. Later verses state we should not associate with immoral people - probably because they could tempt us with their sins. (DRM 7/7/04) 5:9, 10 I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with immoral people; 10I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or with idolaters; for then you would have to go out of the world. In these verses, and the next few, Paul's point is that we should certainly communicate and be in the world, but we shouldn't allow the worldly people to join our church body - unless they have changed their ways. I have heard different opinions on this topic, and believe that we should follow the directions that Paul wrote in the Bible for direction. (DRM 7/4/07) 5:11 But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he should be an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler - not even to eat with such a one. The Bible encourages us to tell non-believers about our Lord Jesus. We are to go wherever they are and talk to them. This verse refers to "so-called brothers" in the faith; and that we are to avoid them. I still don't understand though. We are all sinners, saved by grace. Flawed believers need help [Holy Spirit] to correct their sinful ways, even though they should know better. (DRM 7/24/01) 5:12, 13 For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? 13But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES. The title of this chapter is "Immorality Rebuked."
Immorality is a common fact in the outside world, and it is useless to judge
what unbelievers do, as there is no reason for them to change. 6:1 Does any one of you, when he has a case against his neighbor, dare to go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints? Paul was very clear in this verse that when believers have
a problem with other believers, they should not go to a worldly court system to
settle the matter. Paul suggests that we should settle our 'family' differences
within the family and not share our internal differences with the outside world.
6:4 Therefore, if you have disputes [with other Christians] about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church. Non-believers always are trying to convince me to sue
others who I either don't understand or slightly disagree with. 6:6, 7 but brother goes to law with brother, and that before unbelievers? 7Actually, then, it is already a defeat for you, that you have lawsuits with one another. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded? The "brothers" referred to are both believers. How would it look to show a division in the family of God? I had this problem with my cabin. The Lord told me (through this verse) not to sue another believer. I'm glad that I didn't go to a lawyer! (DRM 7/25/01) [re: 6:7] This verse and the surrounding verses concern lawsuits against brother Christians. If we are going to live together for eternity and judge the world in His Kingdom, why should we go to a worldly judge instead of our heavenly One? No Christian vs. Christian lawsuits. (DRM 7/8/04) [re: 6:7] This verse has had a great impact on my life, as, on occasion, I have hired other Christian believers to do some type of work for me, then it wasn't done correctly or at all. I knew from this verse that I couldn't take them to court, so I was defrauded. I believe it's up to God to settle this question in the future. (DRM 7/5/07) 6:8 On the contrary, you yourselves wrong and defraud. You do this even to your brethren. This verse makes no sense unless included with verse seven
above. 6:9, 11 Or do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? . . . [list] verse 10 [list] 11And such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. No one currently living on Earth has not sinned. Some of the sins are listed in these verses. Sinners are not allowed in the Kingdom of God. The only way to get into the Kingdom is by asking Jesus to forgive our sins. We can only be sanctified through Christ. (DRM 7/26/01) 6:10 . . . nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the Kingdom of God. This is the second half of a list of who WON'T be in
Heaven. It could also be considered a "sins list" along with other lists in the
Bible. 6:14 Now God has not only raised the Lord, but will also raise us up through His power. The resurrection of Jesus is the most important part to a Christian. In case there is/was any doubt, God can do ANYTHING He wants. By showing us that He can raise Jesus from the grave, He is also showing us - as believers - that he can and will do the same for us. That is the basis of my hope. (DRM 7/9/10) 6:15, 16 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take away the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? May it never be! 16Or do you not know that the one who joins himself to a prostitute is one body with her? For He says, "THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH." [Gen. 2:24 and others] This is about sexual sin. God made our bodies and wants us
to take care of them while we have them on earth. There are certain acts that a
body can do that go against what He designed the body to do. [Re: 6:15] Jesus loves me, this I know. Just as I try to keep my body healthy, Jesus loves His "body" also. Now that I am a Christian, I am part of His body. Jesus wants all parts of His body to be pure and healthy and will not let us go adrift without correction. (DRM 7/27/01) 6:19, 20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? 20For you have been bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body. The body that I have is a gift from God. After I became a Christian, the Holy Spirit entered it and has told me what I should do. My job is to listen to the Holy Spirit. God clearly wants me to glorify Him in what I do with my body. He wants me to take good care of my physical body. (DRM 7/28/01) The context here is not to commit immorality with harlots, as it is a sin against a man's body. All other sins are external [verse 18]. God wants us to keep our bodies pure - avoiding sexual sin. Today's society shows us the results of this sin. Clearly verse 20 wants us [me] to do the best I can to keep my body healthy and God-honoring. (DRM 7/9/04) In one way or another, I think everyone has put some bad substance in their body. I know I add caffeine daily and that probably isn't good. God designed my "tent" or "temple" to worship Him, and it represents a part of His Body - so I should take as good care of it as possible. This refers to more than just food, I'm sure. (DRM 7/6/07) 7:2 But because of immoralities, each man is to have his own wife, and each woman is to have her own husband. In the Old Testament God seemed to allow multiple wives for people He blessed (e.g. David & Solomon) - perhaps to increase the population? Here in the New Testament we are told to have only one wife or husband. I don't find this objectionable, just a revision to go with the world situation. (DRM 7/10/10) 7:7 Yet I wish that all men were even as I myself am. However, each man has his own gift from God, one in this manner, and another in that. Paul was never married - and here he advocated that others also stay single - which is an encouragement to me. It seems that being single means that more time can be spent on serving the Lord - but I am finding that housework and living activities take a lot of time that I'd rather spend on serving Jesus. Satan is always ready with diversions to keep us (me) from truly serving Jesus daily. (DRM 7/7/07) 7:8 But I say to the unmarried and to widows that it is good for them if they remain even as I. Paul wasn't married, and was apparently happy with that. This section seems to indicate that people who are married should be devoted only to each other - but those who aren't married [like me] can serve the Lord in a larger way like Paul did. (DRM 7/29/01) Singleness has advantages, one of which is the freedom to
do as I feel the Lord is leading. The big disadvantage right now is never having
a close, loving relationship with another person. Loneliness is also a problem
occasionally. 7:10, 11 But to the married I give instructions, not I, but the Lord, that the wife should not leave her husband, 11{but if she does leave, let her remain unmarried, or else be reconciled to her husband}, and that the husband should not send his wife away. This is not the way the "world" works today. With divorce now making up 50% of marriages, people seem to be missing "something," which I think is the Bible. With no interior desire to please God, people will continue to do what THEY want, and not what God wants. (DRM 7/30/01) 7:12 But to the rest I say, not the Lord, that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her. Here Paul's opinion is that an unbelieving wife and
believing husband can get married - and the other way around (v. 13). The hope
is that the unbeliever will convert later. The "challenge" is that they can't
divorce - as they knew the conditions before the marriage. 7:16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife? We are NOT in control. God is in control. I can not make anyone else a Christian - only the Holy Spirit can do that. Certainly God doesn't want us to marry an unbeliever - but if you do - then comes this verse. If they are unbelievers and want to stay - fine, but if they want to leave - let them go. We [I] always need God's direction in all things. (DRM 7/11/04) 7:19, 20 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but what matters is the keeping of the commandments of God. 20Let each man remain in that condition in which he was called. I could think of circumcision as legalism. God does not care what we look like, but where our heart is. He wants us to be totally devoted to Him, and followers of Jesus Christ in faith. (DRM 7/31/01) 7:22 For he who was called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord's freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ's slave. Slavery is not advocated in the Bible, but rather mentioned as a current human condition of some. Here Paul wants slaves to become free - spiritually - in the Lord. He also wants free people to become slaves to the Lord - devoted to Him and His Kingdom. Isn't this nearly the same? No matter what our current class or condition, we (I) should be serving the Lord Jesus somehow. (DRM 7/8/07) 7:26 I think then that this is good in view of the present distress, that it is good for a man to remain as he is [single]. Paul was single. He was expressing his opinion about marriage in this section, and felt that remaining single meant they could be used more for the Lord. I hope that will be the case for me. (DRM 8/1/01) 7:27 Are you married? Do not seek a divorce. Are you unmarried? Do not look for a wife. Certainly I have been following the Bible on this verse! I have not been looking for a wife. All this time I have said, when the time comes, I'll meet her. While my patience sometimes runs low, I am sure that if the Lord wants me to marry, He will direct me to the right person, in His time. Everything else has been that way, why not this? (DRM 10/7/87) 7:32, 33 But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; 33but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, Paul was single and could see the advantages of staying that way. I agree that, as being single, I have far more time to serve the Lord than I would as being married. Not mentioned are the delights of children and loneliness at times. All of the great evangelists had supporting wives, I believe. (DRM 7/12/04) 7:33, 34 but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, 34and his interests are divided. . . This section continues to tell us how each person generally acts, based on his/her marriage status. Certainly the way this verse is written, married men have less time to serve the Lord as they have other priorities. (DRM 8/2/01) 7:38 So then both he who gives his own virgin daughter in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage will do better. In verses like this, Paul seems to advocate singleness as a better condition than marriage. In v.33 the unmarried are concerned about the things of the Lord. Even with Paul's comments, I believe God can and does use both married and unmarried people - so long as they are willing to serve Him with all of their heart. (DRM 7/9/07) 7:39 A wife is bound as long as her husband lives; but if her husband is dead, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. This goes along with "no divorce." The wife has to stay married to the husband until he dies. This could also refer to the wife dying first. After the death of the spouse, then they are free to re-marry, but to a believer if they (he or she) is a believer. (DRM 7/12/10) 8:6 yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we exist for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we exist through Him. What is the purpose of life? The answer is right here. We are to be dependent on Him. This verse shows that we exist for God and through Jesus. We are to point others to God through the grace of Jesus' death on the cross. (DRM 8/3/01) 8:8 But food will not commend us to God; we are neither the worse if we do not eat, nor the better if we do eat. As Christians, we have the freedom to eat any type of food that is offered to us. There are no restrictions. We can also choose not to eat [fast], which will not be harmful, according to this verse. Even with this freedom, we are reminded to think of our witness to others [verse 13]. An example to me would be to eat ham with Jews, which I would not do now, but have the freedom to do at home. (DRM 7/13/04) There is no such thing as "Godly food." As believers, we are free to eat whatever we want. The challenge is that others have different beliefs and won't eat certain food. So, as a witness to Christ, it is better not to eat the food they won't eat - when you are with them. As Christians 'in the world,' we are to show His love and not cause friction on immaterial things. (DRM 7/10/07) 8:9 But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. Other people who follow other religions or maybe no
religion at all, have dietary laws they follow - usually not eating some type of
food. 8:10 For if someone sees you, who have knowledge, dining in an idols temple, will not his conscience, if he is weak, be strengthened to eat things sacrificed to idols? While this would be rare in the USA, I can think how this could still occur in some far Eastern countries. The point is to consider how others view your actions. While it is 'legal" to do this by God's law, it could be misinterpreted by others who are not in the Christian faith, and could hinder their views of the faith and consideration of conversion. (DRM 7/13/10) 8:13 Therefore if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, that I might cause my brother to stumble. "In Rome, do as the Romans do." is a phrase that comes to mind. Just because Christians have the freedom to eat any type of food, we shouldn't "flaunt" this freedom in from of others who are curious about our faith. We are to "go with the flow," and do as the others do, so as not to cause them to stumble. (DRM 8/4/01) 9:1 Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord? Paul is writing about his freedom to do things, as God gives us all freedom to do certain things, so long as they don't depart from His will for our lives. I'm not so sure that this is the definition of an apostle, as much as it is a statement of my freedom in Christ. (DRM 7/11/07) 9:3, 4 My defense to those who examine me is this: 4Do we not have a right to eat and drink? I think this refers to Paul's need for financial assistance for his work. (v. 6) It is difficult to work continuously and not get paid. A worker in a worldly occupation as well as ministerial needs some type of payment for work done unless they are retired or have funding from some other source. (DRM 7/14/10) 9:7 Who at any time serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard, and does not eat the fruit of it? Or who tends a flock and does not use the milk of the flock? This made me think of my distribution of bookmarks. How am I benefiting? I am benefiting by the occasional discussions that I have with pastors, etc. I also know that I have to wait to see the fruit from the seeds. God knows - that's what matters. (DRM 8/5/01) God knows we have needs to survive while on earth. If we work for others, like a soldier, we expect to receive payment for our work. If we are farmers or shepherds, we expect the Lord to provide the rain and sun to make the crops grow. In either case, we need hope and faith that He will meet all of our daily needs - however He chooses. (DRM 7/14/04) 9:16 For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for I am under compulsion; for woe is me if I do not preach the gospel. It seems to me that all Christians should be preaching the gospel in some way. Preaching the gospel doesn't have to be verbal. Just our actions and appearance and language should show that we are different. The written word is powerful - the Internet and books also tell the Message. (DRM 7/15/04) When God created each one of us, He put certain desires in our hearts. We call them our spiritual gifts. While I never knew this when I was young, I know that I wanted to be a pastor of a church at age 11. Still, my parents discouraged this thought, but God still has this desire in my heart, and I don't know how to fulfill it. Like Paul in this verse, I feel the compulsion. (DRM 7/12/07) 9:17 For if I do this voluntarily, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have a stewardship entrusted to me. This is referring to Paul's sharing of the Gospel. Jesus visited Paul and gave him knowledge to share. Paul was sharing voluntarily, so will receive a spiritual reward in Heaven for his obedience. I don't know why he wrote "against my will," other than Jesus chose him to deliver the message and he had no prior desire to tell others about Christ until Jesus changed his life on the way to Damascus. (DRM 7/15/10) 9:18 What then is my reward? That when I preach the gospel, I may offer the gospel without charge, so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. In verse 14, "the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living from the gospel." This verse showed that Paul chose NOT to receive a salary - or rather - not to charge for sharing Christ with others. I think that Christ and His Love should be a free gift - something that all people should know and decide upon. (DRM 8/6/01) 9:19 For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more. As Christians, we are free to do "anything" that the Bible allows. In this verse, and illustrated in the following verses, Paul shows that his (and ours should be) motivation to win the lost (unbelievers) is to be a slave to them - a servant - and to be like them so as to open a channel of initial communication like friendship evangelism. (DRM 7/16/10) 9:20 To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews; to those who are under Law, as under the Law though not being myself under the Law, so that I win those under the Law; God=Jesus wants us to share the gospel message with ALL
people. There's no doubt about the part of His will for each of us. We have to
understand each person's background to be able to relate and have a starting
point in sharing the gospel with them. Even though we are not Jews, we should
understand their customs and follow them while we are in their presence. The
same principle applies to other religions or non-religions/cults. 9:22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. At one time I quoted "something like" this verse to a friend and later wondered just how to go about following this verse. Certainly God does not want us to be "of this world." I think I should understand how this world "works" and be available to talk to people of the world about Christ and His meaning to my life in the hopes that they will become believers also. (DRM 8/8/87) This goal is a goal for my life. It's part of a 3 verse set. [verses 20-22] to be all things to all people. Try to understand where people are "coming from" before gently correcting them. This is not easy. It seems to indicate the need for "friendship evangelism" and lots of time. Lord, let me be more like You and do Your will as the occasions arise. (DRM 8/7/01) We are to care for other people. We have to learn their ways [but not do them] so we can associate with them at the level where they are. Examples are in verses 20 and 21. How am I doing? Do I understand others' feelings and faiths, so I can lead them to Christ? I need a lot more help on this - and more people to talk to! (DRM 7/16/04) It will probably take a long time for me to fully understand why I went to Chicago for two years and had to return to Albany. I began as a middle class citizen, and slowly became a low financial class citizen. I associated more with the people who lived on the streets, and understood their plight more, so that was a learning experience and opened my eyes more. . . but will any be led to Christ? (DRM 7/13/07) 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. This particular verse is meant to be taken physically -
but it leads to a spiritual application in the next verses. 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. It doesn't have to be the marathon, how about the 100 yard
dash? After all the training to be the fastest, the runner wins the prize - it
was a wreath in Bible times, but some type of medal or trophy today. At the end
of earthly life, the trophy stays here and the athlete goes to Heaven or Hell.
9:26, 27 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; 27but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified. Paul was comparing himself to an athlete who had to train
hard to win a race. The athlete would then win a perishable wreath if he/she won
(v. 25). Paul reminds the Corinthians that doing anything—especially following Christ—without a goal in mind is the height of foolishness. A runner with no destination will simply tire and quit, and a boxer beating the air never put his training to practical use. We follow Christ to become like Him and receive the prize. (from Our Daily Bread INSIGHT J.R. HUDBERG 2/3/16) 10:2 and all [Israelites] were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. Something new. I never realized before that while I believe in "believers baptism" of submersion, that the Israelites were spiritually baptized the day the Red Sea was parted. Then went under water then - and have always been God's people. (DRM 8/8/01) 10:3, 4 . . . and all ate the same spiritual food; 4and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them, and the rock was Christ. This is referring back to the exodus and how the Lord provided for the people. Adding the word "spiritual" gives the event more meaning! The food was physical food, but it was also to show them to depend on God for all their needs, and He was always there. (DRM 7/17/10) 10:5 Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased, for they were laid low in the wilderness. In this part of 1 Corinthians, Paul reflects on the
Israelites who left Egypt with Moses. 10:6 Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved. Paul was in the middle of telling us all the sins of the
Israelites while they were in the wilderness. God had provided for their needs
(vv. 3-4) and was not pleased (v. 5) with their actions: They were worshipers of
idols (v. 7), acted immorally (v. 8) and always grumbled for more or less of
something (v. 10). 10:8 Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. Paul was reviewing the Exodus from Egypt earlier in this
chapter - from his perspective. He showed what they did right (vv. 1-4) and what
they did wrong (vv. 5-7). In this verse he wrote that we are not to act as the
Israelites did; and shows us the consequences. 10:9 Nor let us try the Lord, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents. In this chapter Paul refers to the Jews exodus from Egypt.
The example in this verse comes from Numbers 21:6. 10:10 And do not grumble, as some of them did - and were killed by the destroying angel. Verse 7 said "Do not be idolaters;" verse 8 not
to commit sexual immorality; verse 9 not to test the Lord and verse 10 not to
grumble. I have a great ability - to complain or grumble when things aren't going my way. My tendency is to try to change the problem and to tell others. The correct way is to lean on the Lord for His provision. (DRM 8/9/01) I will be the first to admit that I have and still grumble when I have to do things that I don't want to do. Moving back to Albany is my current example - but I still did as I felt the Lord Jesus wanted me to do - and my faith is still in Him - that He will open doors here that weren't open in Chicago. (DRM 7/14/07) 10:11 Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. The first ten verses of this chapter remind me of what the Israelites did as they traveled with Moses. They had laws to follow and could not keep them. "God was not well-pleased" [verse 5]. In avoiding or duplicating their mistake, we are given suggestions on how to act better. While I have Christ, I also want to live "cleanly" and to serve Him as He leads. (DRM 7/17/04) 10:12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. Previous verses refer to sins that we commit (e.g.
idolaters {v. 7}, act immorally {v. 8}, try the Lord {v. 9}, and grumble {v.
10}). 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you, but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. All people, Christians and non-Christians, are tempted to do sinful things. When we are tempted, our faith determines how we will respond. Non-Christians just go ahead and "do it," but Christians should think if the Lord Jesus would approve before continuing. Jesus=God will always suggest a way to "opt-out" of the temptation if He wants us to choose a different path. (DRM 7/18/10) 10:17 Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one bread. As Christians, we are all a part of the Spiritual body of Christ. We are each a separate part of the whole. The same is true in the representation in communion. Communion is the sharing of the Body. (DRM 8/10/01) When Jesus Christ [one bread] died, He gave Himself as the whole bread. When we take communion, we Christians take pieces of bread simultaneously and show that we are pieces of His one body - the loaf. Jesus didn't just die, He lives on - and one way is through the Holy Spirit which He has given to true believers in Him. (DRM 7/18/04) When I have taken communion at church, I have praised the Lord Jesus (in prayer) for His sacrifice for my sins. This verse shows me a different aspect of communion that is rarely mentioned. When I (we) take communion, we all partake together - as a body of believers, thus representing the whole body of Christ unified. (DRM 7/15/07) 10:23 All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. There are many examples of lawful things that are not
pleasing to the Lord. As Christians, we want to grow spiritually and not spend
all our time on diversions that go against His teachings in the Bible. 10:24 Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor. Do I help others enough? NO. When others ask me for my thoughts or assistance - I try to help. Quite often I can't afford to donate to all of the organizations that want my help - and that disappoints me. When I need help, I should depend on the Lord, and He will provide the answers as what to do. Jesus gave His life for me, the least I can do is help others in need when I can. (DRM 7/19/04) 10:27 If one of the unbelievers invites you, and you wish to go, eat anything that is set before you, without asking questions for conscience' sake. I have not been very good at this! The rare times that I am at an unbelievers home, I am more concerned about my fat and cholesterol than their feelings. I have to learn that the Lord will allow occasional deviations from my diet when I am offered the opportunity to share the gospel. (DRM 8/11/01) 10:28 But if anyone should say to you, "This is meat sacrificed to idols," do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for conscience sake; Believers are free to eat all kinds of food (v. 25), but the reason for this verse is explained in v. 29, 31 and 33. Obviously the unbelieving host thinks this meat is an issue, so they are mentioning the meat's source. While Christians have freedom, they (we) must be a witness and follow the host's preference. Our goal is to lead others to Christ, not to start a dietary disagreement. (DRM 7/16/07) 10:31, 32 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32Give no offense either to Jews or Greeks or to the church of God; This continues the dietary theme. As believers, we have no dietary restrictions like the Jews do - except for my (our) own preferences. Verse 32 reminds me that if others have these restrictions, it is best to follow their law in their presence, to be a non-confrontational witness for Christ (not an offense). (DRM 7/19/10) 11:4, 5 Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying, disgraces his head. 5But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying, disgraces her head; for she is one and the same with her whose head is shaved. Styles change. That's the excuse that I'm sure the women of today would use with this verse. Men are not exempt. I've seen baseball caps on men in church also. If all of the Bible should be taken as truth, these verses should be also. They seem clear. (DRM 8/12/01) This would probably cause one of the big controversies in the Christian church today. When I was a child, all women had hats on in church. Some Christian churches still have this tradition. Was Paul declaring this as a tradition of his day, or as a requirement? Is the outward appearance a reflection of the heart? I can see and understand both points of view on this. (DRM 7/17/07) 11:6 For if a woman does not cover her head, let her also have her hair cut off; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, let her cover her head. This refers to times of "praying or prophesying" (v. 5). Since I recall and have photos of the women in my church wearing hats in the 1950's, I don't know why this changed. USA society doesn't do this in 2010, with rare exceptions. Since we should be following the Bible, I think of this as rebellion - like below: (DRM 7/20/10) In the Greek and Roman world at this time, there was a powerful women's liberation movement. The sign of submission in this culture had been for a wife to have her head "covered" (vv. 5-6) with a veil or with a draping of their outer garment over their head, like a hood. To show rebellion against submitting to their husbands, the women were taking off their veils. Paul basically says, Keep your veils on! (Word of Life Diary excerpt) 11:7 For a man ought not to have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God, but the woman is the glory of man. Back when I was young, I remember how most people wore hats - and how my mother and other women did wear their hats in church, whereas the men took them off. Times have changed and most people - including Christians - don't feel obligated to this section of I Corinthians. What would Jesus do? How I would like His opinion on this! (DRM 7/20/04) 11:14, 15 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him, 15but if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her for a covering. The most famous artwork of Jesus shows Him with long hair.
Paul lived in the same era as Jesus and also wrote this, so did Jesus have short
hair? 11:18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part, I believe it. Like today, when Paul wrote this letter nearly two thousand years ago, the church was divided. For whatever the reason, people don't agree on some aspects of how to worship the Lord. Jesus never wanted His house divided. It seems to me that the churches with minor differences should get back together. It's what's in the heart! (DRM 7/21/04) 11:19 For there must also be factions among you, in order that those who are approved may have become evident among you. It seems that in Paul's day (like today) that all who went to a church were not believers. Before long, factions of belief appeared and attempted to cause division. In this verse, Paul says that "those who are approved" - believers - would become evident. I think the point is that believers shouldn't be the cause of strife, in the church or elsewhere. (DRM 7/18/07) 11:20, 21 Therefore when you meet together, it is not to eat the Lord's Supper, 21for in your eating each one takes his own supper first; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What is the purpose of meeting together? I think it is to worship the Lord Jesus Christ and learn more about Him. Some religions make meetings a ritual and renew the Lord's Supper each week. These verses indicate what should be the priority. Lead me to understand. (DRM 8/13/01) 11:24 . . . and when He had given thanks, He broke it [bread] and said, "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me." Most of us have heard this verse hundreds of times. Some people believe that when they take communion, or the "Lord's Supper" that they are literally eating the body of Christ. This is clarified in this verse. Jesus said that the bread was a remembrance of His body. He wants us to remember Him and all that He has done and is still doing for us today. (DRM 12/7/11) 11:25 In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." I hear these words once a month when we have communion at
my church. 11:26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes. In my church, we have communion, or the Lord's supper,
once a month. As this verse states, it's a reminder of what the Lord Jesus did -
He died for my sins. This is a time that we should confess our sins to Him and
commit to following Him more closely. The point of this self-examination is not only to make things right with God but also to make sure we are right with one another. The Lord's Supper is a remembrance of Christ's body, and we can't celebrate it properly if we're not living in harmony with other believers. (from Our Daily Bread, JULIE ACKERMAN LINK 11/28/15) 11:27 Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. The Lord's supper, or communion that is held in churches weekly or monthly - depending on their tradition - is not just free food. It reflects what the Lord Jesus did (died) for our sins. We are to reflect on His awesome gift when we partake of the elements. It we take communion and do not believe that He truly died for our sins, then we are just as guilty of His death as the crowd in c.30 A.D. (DRM 7/19/07) 11:28 But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup. During communion we are to "examine" ourselves. This must refer to confession of sins. . . How have I sinned? How can I improve? What do you want me to do? This is the submissive attitude that I (we) need during communion - but also every day. (DRM 7/22/10) 11:29, 30 For he who eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself, if he does not judge the body rightly. 30For this reason many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep. God is not pleased with unconverted people taking communion. Only believers should take communion. Certainly I never knew the difference. The next verse seems to indicate that God's wrath is on the unconverted because of their actions. Certainly it should be an impetus to enlighten non-believers to read this. (DRM 8/14/01) [re: 11:29] After all those years of going to church and never having
realized the PERSONAL sacrifice that Jesus made for me! [re: 11:29] Many people who are not born-again Christians, take communion at church with the wrong attitude - and don't have Christ in their hearts. These people are bringing judgment on themselves, mainly because they don't understand what a true Christian is and they are unaware of what will happen to them in the future. My job is to tell them. . . (DRM 7/22/04) 11:31 But if we judged ourselves rightly, we would not be judged. The context is taking communion at church. When we take
this sacrament at church, we are to reflect on what the Lord Jesus did to free
us from our sins. This is a time of reflection, and not just eating a piece of
bread/matzo and a cup of wine/juice - we are to ask for forgiveness for our sins
and examine ourselves spiritually during this church event (v. 28). 11:33 So then, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. In this part of 1 Corinthians, Paul is referring to the
Last Supper or what we call the communion service. 12:3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus is accursed"; and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. When I became a Christian, I accepted Jesus into my heart and soul. Both my heart and soul are parts of my body. Certainly it isn't natural to speak against a part of your own body! I can say "Jesus is Lord" because He [Holy Spirit] is in my body. Why attack Him? (DRM 8/15/01) 12:7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. This verse is followed by a list of the spiritual gifts given to believers. Different gifts are given to different believers. No one receives none. One of the purposes of life is to discern which of these gifts we (I) have and to use it as well as possible to advance His Kingdom. There are other lists at other locations in the Bible. (DRM 7/20/07) 12:8 For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; I have had a challenge looking at the cross-references to
determine the difference between wisdom and knowledge - no dictionary! 12:9 . . . to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, This is from a list of the gifts that are given to
believers from the Holy Spirit. 12:10 . . . and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. This is just part of the list of spiritual gifts that we
can receive when we become believers in Christ. (v. 4) 12:11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills. The other verses in this section [verses 7-11] are a list of the gifts of the Spirit. God gives everyone a gift, and, as this verse states, He decides what our gifts are. Hopefully this isn't a complete list, as I don't know if I have ANY of those listed here. . . but God knows. (DRM 8/16/01) This passage [verses 1-11] has two main lists. A clear illustration of the Trinity [verses 4-6] and examples of the manifestation of the Spirit [verses 7-10]. All believers have been given at least one Spiritual gift - and Jesus expects us to use it! I don't think the list here is meant to be exhaustive, but rather examples of the gifts He gives. Lord, let me be faithful to use my gift. (DRM 7/23/04) 12:12 For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. This verse is followed by illustrations pointing out how the members of the body have different jobs and can't all be the same. Our Christian body is like this. We all have different talents, but must use them for the whole purpose of building up the body of Christ. (DRM 8/17/01) 12:13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. All believers in Christ are filled with the Holy Spirit. We each get a little piece of the Spirit and the church - universal - is the sum of all the little pieces = us. We each have a part - but are dependent on the other parts to do the other tasks. We all have to do our part. (DRM 7/24/10) 12:14, 15 For the body is not one member, but many. 15If the foot says, "Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. In this section Paul is illustrating a
comparison between our physical body and spiritual body. 12:16 And if the ear says, "Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. Paul used a few illustrations on the unity of the Body of
Christ. 12:17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? Like the human body, the spiritual body of Christ is made
up of various members with different functions. In this part of 1 Corinthians
12, Paul is using the similarity of the human body to Christ's spiritual body.
12:18 But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. God's body, like the human body, is made up of all kinds of parts. We can't be like God, as other religions may preach. We have each been given our own part to do in the Body of Christ. If I am a finger, I have to do the job of a finger well, or the Body will hurt. God knows our talents and wants us to use them to bring His Body glory. (DRM 7/24/04) I like the illustrations in verses 15-17. It's very clear that we are not all eyes or ears or feet, but a diverse body of believers. This is a great illustration of how the church needs unity - not just with individual believers who attend, but also with other believing churches. We should have more unity among Christian churches - like when Billy Graham crusades came to a city. (DRM 7/21/07) 12:19 If they were all one member, where would the body be? A body can't consist of all thumbs or ears. A body
consists of different members making up the whole. 12:20, 21 But now there are many members, but one body. 21And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; or again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." This illustration shows how our body is like the Christian
church. Each person has a different duty based on his/her abilities. God has
given us different interests and wants us to use them for His glory. There are no unimportant people in the body of Christ. (Our
Daily Bread quote, 10/16/2011) I have been a generally quiet member or attendee of the churches that I have gone to. I agree that I should be an active part of the body of Christ, and try to participate in various church functions, but my main ministry so far has been the distribution of bookmarks. This verse is an encouragement to me. (DRM 7/22/07) 12:23 and those members of the body which we deem less honorable, on these we bestow more abundant honor, and our less presentable members become much more presentable. I had to think of an appropriate example and decided on
gray hair. Certainly I think gray hair is less honorable, but the Bible honors
gray hair in Prov 20:29 {various versions}. 12:24 . . .whereas our more presentable members have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked, This is one verse from a long series of verses about the
whole spiritual body of Christ. 12:25 that there should be no division in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. This continues yesterday's passage about the spiritual body of Christ. Since we each have different duties/parts to play, we shouldn't be fighting among ourselves - as that would show we didn't understand this premise. Since the finger and toe are separate, yet the body feels pain when they don't function, we should care for each other - no fighting! (DRM 7/25/04) 12:26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Why this verse? It's easy to see that each member of Christ's body has a different job, but here it shows that the members talk and share with each other. That's what I feel is missing in my life; very, very few Christians to talk to. (DRM 8/18/01) 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. This whole chapter deals with "The Body" of
Christ and how important every part is. 12:30 All do not have gifts of healings, do they? All do not speak with tongues, do they? All do not interpret, do they? Every Christian has a different gift (or two). God makes all of us different. I can think of a church that thinks you must have the gift of tongues to be a Christian, but the verse explains that all don't have the same gifts. God wants us to use the gift we have been given for His glory. (DRM 7/26/10) 13:1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. Sometimes I wonder if I have ever experienced "love." This passage on love is difficult for me. If I speak to others and never experienced love, I am just an undesirable noise. Praise God, I love Jesus! (DRM 8/19/01) 13:2 And if I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. Love has been challenging for me all my life - or at least since my mother died. I can think of several people that I have loved deeply over the years, but it never seemed to be mutual. It appears to me that to truly experience love, it must be a two-way street, and the hard part is to find that other person. (DRM 7/23/07) 13:3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. This is the love chapter of first Corinthians. While I
have interpreted most of these verses to refer to love between two or more
individuals on earth, today I think this verse could refer to our Christian love
for the Lord Jesus. 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, . . . This is the beginning of a four verse sentence about love.
The whole chapter refers to love. 13:5, 6 [love] . . . does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; A person in love thinks only about the good things the
other person offers. They don't think of the problems and conflicts, but
believes that things will work out and all will be fine. 13:7 [love] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. This is part of a long (four verse) paragraph/sentence on
love. 13:8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. Love is eternal. The other gifts are for our time on
earth. I think that our knowledge will increase after moving to Heaven, but the
misconceptions we have today will be done away, as we will know the Truth. 13:9, 10 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. God knows everything. We don't. With time, scientists have
learned more about (e.g.) the human body, but God knew all this when He made us.
So we only know "in part." The same thing applies to what "we" think the future
will be like, but God knows all that, too! 13:11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. Like some other verses, this could be taken in a spiritual
or non-spiritual way. Since the source is the Bible and this chapter refers to
love, it is best to interpret it in context. 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall know fully just as I also have been fully known. When I am in heaven, it will all be clear. So many things that I don't understand now will be revealed to me. It will also be known what I thought and did while here on earth. (DRM 8/20/01) I know little about Heaven or all the attributes of Jesus now, but when I am with Him in Heaven, my knowledge will increase and I will know much more than I do now. Jesus already knows everything about me, He put me on this earth to do a mission and is arranging all the circumstances for me to do it. He loves me and wants me to love others in the same way. (DRM 7/26/04) 13:13 And now these three remain: Faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. July 1st is the day I think of my past love for my mother.
(She died this day in 1977.) Hopefully and in God's perfect plan, I will feel
her love again someday. 14:1 Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. Love is an important aspect of living, but it is not one
of the spiritual gifts; as believers and unbelievers both have love. 14:2, 3 For one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God; for no one understands, but in his spirit he speaks mysteries. 3But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation. In these two verses, Paul starts to compare the gift of
tongues with the gift of prophecy. His point is that the gift of tongues
benefits only God and not other people, and when it is used, no one, including
the speaker, will understand what is binng said . . . unless you happen to know
that foreign language. 14:4 One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself; but one who prophesies edifies the church. I have never wanted the gift on tongues, because I've felt that I wouldn't understand what was being said. Certainly I agree with the verse! While I know that I'm also not a prophet, I agree that a prophet can communicate his message better than a person speaking in tongues. (DRM 8/21/01) 14:5 Now I wish that you all spoke in tongues, but even more that you would prophesy; and greater is one who prophesies than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may receive edifying. I have prayed many times NOT to receive the gift of speaking in tongues. Not only would I not understand what was said, either would anyone else. I get no knowledge from that. If God gave me the gift of prophecy, then I would be able to instruct others - in my own language - what I have been told. This is a better way to share His love. (DRM 7/27/04) While I know several Christian friends that speak in tongues, I can't understand any of what they are saying. They are not helping me to grow (edifying) in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus. I learn more from the teachers and prophets who share their knowledge and insight in clear language. Where tongues are spoken in public, an interpreter should also be present. (DRM 7/24/07) 14:6 But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking in tongues, what will I profit you unless I speak to you either by way of revelation or of knowledge or of prophecy or of teaching? Paul made it clear that the gift of tongues exists - but
it doesn't speak to those who don't understand what is being said. Only God
knows what the speaker said (v. 2) and I wonder if the speaker knows? 14:9 So also you, unless you utter by the tongue speech that is clear, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air. God gives various gifts to believers. I have heard the
gift of tongues spoken in some churches and it seems to show that these are
spirit-filled people. 14:13 Therefore let one who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. This continues yesterday's discussion on tongues. The passage [verses 6-17] continues the critical attitude, but includes this verse. If we knew - interpreted - what the person was saying it would make sense to us. Otherwise it should be kept between God and the gifted one. (DRM 8/22/01) This continues yesterday's passage on tongues. With many languages in the world, and God giving some of us the ability to speak in a different language; those of us who don't understand that language are just confused by the speech. We need an interpreter! Verse 14 shows more of what happens when a person speaks in a tongue. The Spirit is doing the praying and the mind is not. For me to be comfortable with tongues, I need an interpreter. (DRM 7/28/04) 14:14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. To speak and pray in tongues means nothing to the listener - unless they can interpret the language spoken. The speaker could also have the same problem according to this verse. Since "I" don't know what I'm saying, I can't learn anything from this speech either. (DRM 7/28/10) 14:16 Otherwise if you bless in the spirit only, how will the one who fills the place of the ungifted say the "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what you are saying? This continues the thought about tongues, and is similar to what I wrote down yesterday. I don't think Paul thought the ungifted weren't believers, just that they didn't have the gift of tongues. If the gift of tongues is similar to Pentecost, different believers would be speaking in different languages, thus several interpreters would be needed to interpret each language that is represented. (DRM 7/25/07) 14:22 So then tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe, but to unbelievers; but prophecy is for a sign, not to unbelievers, but to those who believe. When non-believers hear tongues, they are confused, as I am, but know that a powerful God is working in those people. Meanwhile, all understand prophecy; but unbelievers don't believe any of it and Christian believers want to know more - as it could be true. (DRM 8/23/01) 14:23 Therefore if the whole church assembles together and all speak in tongues, and ungifted men or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are mad? Once or twice I have been in a church where they have had prayers and the people in the church prayed in unison in tongues. Each person was speaking but, as a whole, it just sounded as noise. I learned nothing from the experience. There should be an interpreter in instances like this. (DRM 7/29/10) 14:24, 25 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an ungifted man enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all; 25the secrets of his heart are disclosed; so he will fall on his face and worship God, declaring that God is certainly among you. While Paul continues to discuss tongues, these two verses seem to be an aside or comparison to speaking in tongues. It seems logical to me that if an unbeliever entered a church and many were speaking in tongues, he would say that you are mad (v.23). It is preferable for a prophet to tell of the future - which interests most people - than to speak in tongues. There is plenty of prophecy in the Bible that could/should be preached about. (DRM 7/26/07) 14:26 What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. While the passage here continues to de-emphasize the use of tongues, I like this verse as it shows what believers should do when they assemble. This looks like a participatory meeting - where the congregation speaks what they learned during the week - probably with a person interpreting tongues. Does any church do this? (DRM 7/29/04) 14:27-28 If anyone speaks in a tongue, two - or at the most three - should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. 28If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and . . . It was over a year ago that I heard tongues spoken for the
first time and they did not obey this verse. 14:30, 31 But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, let the first keep silent. 31For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exalted; While mostly tongues are mentioned in this passage, these verses concern prophesy. In both cases, the proper way to use these gifts is in small groups; where someone can interpret the tongues. People should be silent when listening to prophesy. (DRM 8/24/01) 14:34 Let the women keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but let them subject themselves, just as the law also says. Many people say they believe everything that is written in the Bible, then have a woman as a pastor. They reply that the "times have changed," and the Bible doesn't apply here. I believe this verse is clear and literal. (DRM 8/25/01) While the verse is clear and literal, currently I think that women have a place to speak in the church, although not as leaders. I know that this is controversial. (DRM 1/30/05) This verse has caused a lot of problems in the denominational churches. Certainly God has given women a mind and soul like men. Women have accepted Christ as their Savior from the beginning, but according to this, they are to be "support staff" to the men who are to be leaders. Does this work? Are there any mega-churches led by women? Is God blessing women's ministries? (DRM 7/30/04) 14:35 If they (women) desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. Times have changed, traditions have changed, but the words
in the Bible haven't changed. I'm sure this topic could cause alienation when
discussed. 14:37 If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord's commandment. At times Paul has written that he is writing his own preferences - like being single - but here he has been directed by the Lord Jesus on what to write about tongues and in v. 34-36 about women speaking in churches. If the Bible is God's word, and the writer states he received the direction from God, then I must believe it to be truly from God. (DRM 7/27/07) 15:3, 4 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, "First importance" is absolute truth in my mind. This is
the basis for our faith. If we (I) don't believe this, I'm not a Christian. 15:6-8 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8and last of fall, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. The purpose of Jesus' coming to earth was to die for our
sins, and while painful, He accomplished that mission. Still, we don't worship a
God who is dead, but, unlike others, One who rose from the dead three days
later; proving He was who He said He was. 15:9 For I [Paul] am the least of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. Paul knew he was a sinner saved by the grace of God. When
he was called by Jesus, he made a dramatic change in direction, thus he felt he
was the "least of the apostles" due to his past. 15:10 But by the grace of God I [Paul] am what I am, and His grace toward me did not prove vain; but I labored even more than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God with me. Paul knew the work that he did was not "by himself," but was a gift from God. He admitted he worked hard, but God gave him the grace and ability to do it. Lord, I pray that You will also give me the ability to do good works for You. (DRM 8/26/01) Paul never knew Jesus while He was on earth. He was a Jew who was against Jesus - until his life changed. It was a dramatic moment for Paul - and changed his life. He didn't feel that he was an apostle [verse 9] as he was a late arrival and worked hard to catch up on knowledge and sharing of His instructions. I've been late too! (DRM 7/31/04) 15:11 Whether then it was I [Paul] or they [the other apostles], so we preach and so you believed. Paul just wrote a mini-history on how he was the last and least of the apostles. This verse is short, but emphasizes to me that he "preached" the gospel. He didn't walk around being a good person, but rather spoke = preached to others that they may know that Christ died for our sins (v.3-4). How will they know if we don't tell them? (DRM 7/28/07) 15:12 Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? This is illogical. Like Paul wrote, how can people believe
that Jesus rose from the dead and also say that no one can rise from the dead? 15:13, 14 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; 14and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. How do I know the gospel is true? Faith and personal life-changing experiences. If Jesus had not risen from the dead, I would be lost forever and have no future life. I'm glad I don't live on a "dead-end" street! (DRM 8/27/01) Jesus Christ's resurrection is the whole basis of the Christian faith. If Jesus didn't go to Heaven, how can I have any hope to do so? Without this hope, I would die and just cease to exist. Learning anything new would be a waste of time - as it would be gone at the second of my death. Jesus is alive - and I believe I will also be. (DRM 8/1/04) 15:15 Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we testified against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised. What if? What if Jesus didn't rise from the dead? Our
faith would all be in vain (v. 17). 15:16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; Christianity is based on Jesus being raised from the dead.
If no one ever was raised after death, Jesus wasn't either, then our faith would
be useless. 15:17 and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. This is the most important aspect of Christianity - that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. If someone can absolutely prove that they have found Jesus' bones, the whole Christian religion is false. My faith in the resurrection and the evidence of the Holy Spirit working in my life are the reasons that I believe and want to share this truth with others. (DRM 7/29/07) 15:20-22 But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep. 21For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. All people that have been born on earth will die, like our
ancestor Adam. 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. We were born sinners, we inherited sin from Adam. We also
inherited death from Adam [verse 21] and the rapture is the only way that we can
possibly avoid death. 15:23 But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ's at His coming, This is the order of Resurrection. Jesus the Christ was the first, then the first fruits, which would be the earliest believers and apostles, then - I think this refers to bodily resurrection at the rapture - the Christian believers of all time, then we who are alive when He comes to receive His church. (DRM 8/2/10) 15:28 And when all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, that God may be all in all. This is a Theocracy, where God is the ultimate ruler. After all nations (things) are subjected to Jesus, then Jesus will continue to be subject to His Father, God, and will deliver the final outcome to the Ruler of all, God Himself. What will my job be? Only Jesus knows, but what I do in this life has a big impact. (DRM 7/30/07) 15:31 I affirm, brethren, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. Paul seems to have unconnected thoughts in these verses,
or I don't "get" the connection. 15:33 Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." Sometimes it seems that I am misled by my co-workers who
quite often are "bad company." I listen to their opinions and think
that Christ is not in them, so they only have worldly answers. What's "bad company?" Unbelievers? Some things that unbelievers do certainly are against my morals. I don't think this verse refers to us not witnessing the Truth to them, but rather that we shouldn't go on all of their "activities" with them as it would do us more harm than good. (DRM 8/28/01) 15:34 Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame. Clearly the Bible does not want people to get drunk. As
followers of Christ we are to be sober AND sober-minded; not taking in things
that we shouldn't. 15:37, 38 and that which you sow, you do not sow the body which is to be, but a bare grain, perhaps of wheat or of something else. 38But God gives it a body just as He wished, and to each of the seeds a body of its own. One of the great mysteries about death and individual resurrection to me is - what will my new body look like? We are told that our family and friends who were believers will recognize us, but we will also have abilities that we didn't have on earth. While I have an earthly mind, I pray for a specific earthly shape, but only God knows what shape I will be in when I am in Heaven. (DRM 7/31/07) [re: 15:37] What will my body look like in Heaven? I know I dwell on that more than almost anything - and won't know until I get there. This verse reminds me that my body will become a seed and will be buried in the ground before it can sprout - transform - into my new body. The seed doesn't look like the flower, but I will be recognized. (DRM 8/3/04) [re: 15:38] What will my heavenly body be like? This is a thought that I have nearly every day. In this section [verses 35-50], our earthly body is compared to a seed that has to be planted in the ground [death], then becomes something brand new, after being in the earth. How I wonder what I will look like there. (DRM 8/29/01) 15:40 There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one, and the glory of the earthly is another. I still can't comprehend what my heavenly body will look like - certainly it will be different and have different abilities - just like Jesus was able to come into the Upper Room without using a door. And it will be similar - as others will recognize me (us). This is a surprise to look forward to! (DRM 8/4/10) 15:42, 43 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; 43it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; As I age I have more and more health concerns and
occasional malfunctions. While I try to exercise every day - my real hope is
contained in these verses. 15:44 it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. The great mystery is what the spiritual body looks like. Everyone will get a new body after they die from their earthly home. Our soul will live forever, but our home is determined on earth. It seems to me that is the meaning of life itself. We all started with a soul, and have our life on earth to determine our destination. (DRM 8/4/04) 15:45, 46 So also it is written, "The first MAN, Adam, BECAME A LIVING SOUL." The last Adam [Jesus] became a life-giving spirit. 46However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, then the spiritual. When we were born, we are given natural-earthly bodies by
God. Adam in this verse is the first living/earthly person. Our soul comes with
our body. We have to decide during our lifetime where it will go next. God
already knows our decision. 15:47, 48 The first man [Adam] is from the earth, earthly; the second man is from heaven [Jesus]. 48As is the earthly, so also are those who are earthly; and as is the heavenly, so also are those who are heavenly. Each of us has an earthly body right now, we have a body
like Adam did when God formed him from the earth. While we don't look alike, the
general form is the same. 15:50 Now I say this, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God; nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. It's only logical that the body that I'm in now can't last forever. God put in aging and deterioration of some body functions. At my age, I WANT a new body! No one will enter Heaven in their current body - it is a spiritual place where we will have spiritual bodies. But while I'm on earth, I will continue to try to keep my earthly body in "good working order." (DRM 8/1/07) 15:51, 52 Behold, I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. At some point in history, when a trumpet shall sound, all the remaining Christians on earth will be changed and go to Heaven without dying. No one knows when this will happen and that's the way God wants it - to keep us ready. I pray it will be SOON! (DRM 8/30/01) The "rapture" is not in the Bible, so the critics say. But the definition of the event is shown here. We don't know when the "last trumpet" will be. It will be the day that the last person accepts Jesus Christ as Savior. When will that day be? (DRM 8/6/04) Now I think people can accept Jesus after the rapture, but they would have to go through the tribulation, and it's better not to go through that! (DRM 7/26/05) 15:53 For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. At the present time, I have a mortal, perishable body. At
some time, God=Jesus will decide that it's "transition time," where I will leave
the mortal-perishable body and take on my new imperishable state. Depending on
the timing - it may be in spiritual form or spiritual and bodily form if at the
rapture. Either way, something will occur that will cause me to be with the
Lord. 15:54 But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, "DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. . . Knowing the assurance written here of my victory over death gives me more confidence on what will happen in the future. Being dead to the earth is being alive in Heaven! The part that concerns me is the "process" of aging and disintegration that goes on as we (I) get older. The rapture is preferable to me. (DRM 8/5/10) 15:55, 56 O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?" 56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; We all sin. We know that we sin from the Law, the Ten
Commandments and other "laws" in the Bible, both Old and New Testaments. 15:57 . . . but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the second half of a sentence with v. 56. 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. Quite often I wonder if my individual life is making any impact on others and their need for - or growth in - the Lord Jesus. A common phrase is that I should "keep on keeping on." I should try any means to share the love of Christ with others - and I am assured by this verse that my toil will not be in vain. (DRM 8/2/07) 16:1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. There have been poor people in all ages. When Paul wrote
this, a collection was being given to the Christians in Jerusalem (v. 3). 16:2 On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. I know that there still is a discussion on what day of the
week to worship the Lord. While this doesn't refer to worship, it does refer to
Sunday collections; which are generally done at services. 16:6, 7 and perhaps I [Paul] shall stay with you, or even spend the winter, that you may send me on my way wherever I may go. 7For I do not wish to see you now just in passing; for I hope to remain with you for sometime, if the Lord permits. Paul's life was in the Lord's hands, and he knew it. As he wrote to the Corinthians, he announced that he was coming - and that he was going to stay for months. He was depending on the Lord to meet all of his needs after he arrived. This showed Paul's faith. (DRM 8/31/01) 16:9 for a wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. God has a plethora of jobs available to us while we are
here on earth. He has chosen one or two for each of us. Our job is to know what
the job is AND DO IT! Paul was writing his concluding statements and final instructions to the Corinthian church and is here writing his immediate plans. Like Paul, we, as Christians, also have many opportunities for effective service to our Lord Jesus. How shall we serve Him? Some tasks are easier than others - and the adversaries (demons) will oppose our efforts - depending on the ultimate goal. i.e. Helping cook or feed the poor will have less demonic opposition than evangelizing to the lost. (DRM 8/3/07) 16:10, 11 Now if Timothy comes, see that he is with you without cause to be afraid, for he is doing the Lord's work, as I also am. 11So let no one despise him. But send him on his way in peace, so that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren. Why would Timothy be afraid? 16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. We must never give up, no matter how depressed we are. Satan is willing to attack at the slightest weakness and certainly has done that to me recently. I must stand firm, never giving up in faith that the Lord will provide me with all my needs. I must be strong spiritually and physically and mentally to defeat whatever attacks come my way. (DRM 6/12/87) One of my favorite statements is to "be in the world, but not of it." I must be alert to what is happening in the world - as an observer. I shouldn't quit my study of His Word and be strong spiritually. (DRM 9/1/01) 16:16 that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors. Serving is a key aspect of the Christian life. Here, Paul requests that the Corinthians be subject to people like the household of Stephanas (v. 15). While thankful for Christ's provision, we are not to be proud, but always willing to serve in whatever the Lord - probably through the church - leads us to do. (DRM 8/4/07) 16:17 And I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus; because they have supplied what was lacking on your part. This is an example of how we need each other. The
Corinthian church was probably just starting and needed help on certain things.
Here were three volunteers that were coming to help, and needed the support of
the church. 16:19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Prisca greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. This is a reminder to me that the Christian church didn't
start as large cathedrals and thousands of people, but rather as small groups of
believers that met in houses. |